"Don't be afraid," said he, "I am not come to assassinate you, but merely to say that I accept your proposal, on condition only that the duel shall take place to-day. If not, never!"
"It is out of the question. I have letters to write, and some business to do for the king."
"That will do afterwards. In all probability you will not fall, and if you do I am sure the king will forgive you. Besides, a dead man need fear no reproaches."
"I want to make my will."
"Come, come, you needn't be afraid of dying; it will be time enough for you to make your will in fifty years."
"But why should your excellency not wait till tomorrow?"
"I don't want to be caught."
"You have nothing of the kind to fear from me."
"I daresay, but unless we make haste the king will have us both arrested."
"How can he, unless you have told him about our quarrel?"