"I will be pleased to," he said.
"And don't—don't have any quarrel with Captain Dutton," she said, with a little smile.
"Er—oh, no, I—I—er—I won't," was all Dick could stammer. He resolved that he would have no more quarrels, but it was too late to stop this one.
As the last of the guests were leaving, Paul sought out his roommate.
"The clump of trees, down by the lagoon," he whispered. "In an hour. What about weapons? Dutton wants to know."
"He'll have to wait. I'll bring them with me. It's my privilege."
A little later Dick went to his room, where he was busy for some time. When he emerged he was accompanied by Paul. He wore his long cape overcoat, and something bulged beneath it.
"I guess he'll be surprised," commented Paul.
The clump of trees, which Dutton had selected as the place for the duel, was located on a little point of land that jutted out into the lake, and near a small lagoon. It was some distance from the academy buildings, and out of sight. The trees had kept most of the snow from the ground, and it was a sheltered place. As there was a full moon there was no need of other light.
As Dick and Paul approached the place they saw several dark figures moving about.