"I am sorry to say that Count Marioni, who is the insulted person in this affair, chooses swords."
Lord St. Maurice nodded.
"When, and where?"
"At a place below the cliffs to which I shall conduct you at six o'clock to-morrow morning."
"At six o'clock! But he has another affair on at half-past."
"So I understand," the Palermitan answered, "I pointed out that we should prefer an interval of at least a day; but Monsieur le Capitaine there explains that the Count de Marioni, having dispensed with his incognito, is hourly in danger of arrest on account of some political trouble, and is therefore anxious to have both affairs settled. I have agreed, therefore, with your permission, to waive all etiquette in the matter."
"I don't know that it makes any difference to me," Lord St. Maurice answered. "To-night, by moonlight, would have suited me best."
Signor Pruccio laughed.
"You are in a great hurry, Lord St. Maurice. May I ask whether you are proficient with your weapon?"
"I never fenced since I was at school," he answered coolly. "I suppose Marioni is dangerous?"