The Frenchman bowed stiffly, and continued on his way. Hal returned to Chester.
“Back so soon?” said Chester.
“Yes,” was Hal’s reply; “and back with more trouble.”
“What’s the matter?” demanded Chester in some consternation.
“Well, I am afraid I have a duel on my hands.”
“A duel?”
“Yes; on my way here I accidentally bumped into some fiery French lieutenant. He slapped me across the face and I knocked him down. He then informed me his friend would call on me this evening. That sounds like a duel to me.”
“Yes,” said Chester, “unless it can be patched up.”
“I am afraid it can’t. You know these Frenchmen. As far as I am concerned, there is nothing to fight about, but I am afraid the Frenchman feels he has a grievance. He’ll probably demand a fight or an apology.”
“Well?”