"What can the earl have done to offend him so deeply?" he muttered. "Some woman, I suppose?"
The general nodded succinctly.
"Per Bacco! they are splendidly matched!" he exclaimed, in a low tone of admiration.
At present, indeed, it seemed as if the chances were equal, for, though the prince had made several passes that ought to have carried his sword through Blair's body, Blair had parried them skillfully and gracefully, and still stood untouched.
The prince's face darkened and he paused, for he thought he read Blair's intention. He would wait until the prince had scratched him or inflicted a slight flesh wound, and then declare himself satisfied, the seconds would interfere, and he, the prince, would be balked.
With compressed lips, he commenced the attack again, and, seizing a favorable opportunity, permitted his opponent's sword to cut his arm.
Blair lowered his weapon instantly, and the seconds sprung forward.
"A touch, your highness," said the doctor, in a tone of relief. "My lord, you are satisfied, I presume?"
Blair inclined his head, and wiped the tip of his sword, but the prince smiled grimly.