The Palermitan looked very grave. He began to see that it would be more like a murder than a duel.
"Count Marioni is one of the finest swordsmen in Italy," he answered. "Perhaps, if I were to explain that you are not accustomed to the rapier——"
"Pray don't," Lord St. Maurice interrupted. "He'd be just as likely to shoot me."
"That is true," Signor Pruccio assented. "I have seen him do wonderful things with the pistol. If you can spare an hour or two, Signor, I should be happy to give you a little advice as to the management of your weapon. There is a large room at the top of my house where we fence."
Lord St. Maurice shook his head.
"Thank you, I'll take my chance," he answered.
"At five o'clock, Signor. Will you not come to my house for the night?"
"I'm much obliged, but I must write some letters. Good-night, Signor."
"Good-night, Signor. Sleep well!"