“It is an agreement. Ask your friend,” cried Gerome.
“Let it be as Monsieur Chanet wishes; I offer no objection,” said the earl.
“I enter my protest against such a course, but will do as you desire me. So be it—the six chambers have to be charged.”
The seconds proceeded to carry out these instructions, after which the two principals were placed in position.
De Monpres walked up to the side of the earl and handed him his pistol.
“Be sure you stand firm and aim at his body—not at the head. You’ll bring down your man. That fellow has no idea of loading a pistol; in addition to which his powder is of the very worst description. You have every chance in your favour, and must come off victor.”
Having delivered himself of this speech the chevalier withdrew.
“Now, gentlemen,” said he, “it has been agreed upon that I am to give the signal for firing. It is this: one, two, three—fire! When the last of these words is uttered you discharge your weapons. How say you? Do you understand?”
Both the belligerents answered in the affirmative.
The chevalier glanced anxiously for a moment at his man; then he said in slow, deliberate voice—