"Milor, no man of whatever nationality, as you happily express it, 'punches the head' of a French gentleman with impunity, unless peradventure," said de Kerguel with an insolent smile, "he is a coward as well as a boxer."
"Do sit down," said Lord Spunyarn imperturbably. "He's no coward," and taking from his pocket a note, he handed it to the Frenchman.
The letter was short but emphatic.
"Dear Shirtings,
"That ass Barbiche will send a friend to you asking for a meeting. Agree to anything he wishes and oblige"Yours,
"R. Haggard."
The Frenchman read the letter, reseated himself, and with a bow handed back the note.
"I was precipitate, Milor. All this is very irregular; but we advance, though slowly."
"Yes, I suppose we do, worse luck. I'll tell you what I'll do. Old Pepper is stopping in this hotel; there seems to be nothing else for it, I'll send for him," said his lordship with a sigh, and he rang the bell.
The waiter who answered it was directed to present his lordship's compliments to General Pepper, and to request his immediate presence.
The Indian warrior had just breakfasted, and entered the room in a few minutes. He was introduced to the Frenchman; a few words from Lord Spunyarn sufficiently explained the matter.
"I understand then, Monsieur de Kerguel," said the general, "that we are the challenged party. As such we are entitled to a choice of weapons?"