Hardly had Toney Belton's footsteps ceased to sound in the corridor before Wiggins snatched up his hat and hurried into the presence of his principal in extreme agitation.
"Mr. Botts," he exclaimed, "I have just had an interview with Mr. Belton, the friend of Captain Bragg."
"Captain Bragg then accepts the challenge?" said Botts.
"Of course he does," said Wiggins, "and we have agreed upon the terms."
"What time does Bragg propose for the meeting?"
"Between daybreak and sunrise to-morrow."
"A very excellent arrangement," said Botts. "The early hour will insure us against the chance of interruption. And the place?"
Wiggins named the place designated by Belton, and the selection met with the approval of his principal, who inquired,—
"Did the captain choose fire-arms, or small swords? I am equally expert in the use of either."