THORNTON. You make the fact that you desire to pick a quarrel with me quite plain, sir; but I choose my own quarrels and my own enemies.
KERCHIVAL. Colonel Haverill is my commander, and he is beloved by every officer in the regiment.
THORNTON. On what authority, may I ask, do you—
KERCHIVAL. The honour of Colonel Haverill's wife is under our protection.
THORNTON. Under your protection? You have a better claim than that, perhaps, to act as her champion. Lieutenant Kerchival West is Mrs. Haverill's favourite officer in the regiment.
KERCHIVAL. [Approaching him.] You dare to suggest that I—
THORNTON. If I accept your challenge, I shall do so not because you are her protector, but my rival.
KERCHIVAL. Bah! [Striking him sharply on the cheek with glove. The two men stand facing each other a moment.] Is it my quarrel now?
THORNTON. I think you are entitled to my attention, sir.
KERCHIVAL. My time here is limited.