"What? You seek to kill him? Kill le petit Anglais?" His tone was dubious.
"No, not quite that. I've no wish for trouble. He has too many friends. I'll teach him to leave me alone!"
"Oh, yes! But..." Le Vallon pursed his lips.
"But what?" barked Bancroft.
"It is said that he is a not-to-be-despised swordsman. He pinked Armand de Sedlamont with great ease."
"Pooh!" said Bancroft. "Six months ago—"
"I know, I know, but he has changed."
Bancroft scowled.
"Well, will you act for me or not?"
Le Vallon drew himself up.