"I shall not consult his opinion, or that of any other man, in defence of my own honour," said Ronald haughtily.
"As you please," replied the other, with an air of pique. "Lisle and you have long been on very distant terms, and the officers have always predicted that the matter would terminate in this way."
"Curse their impertinent curiosity! And so Lisle calls me out in consequence of the high words we exchanged in the cathedral last night?"
"That is one reason—the least one, I believe. He mentioned that his sister, Miss Lisle—"
"Stay, Chisholm! I will hear no more of this," cried Stuart; then suddenly changing his mind added, "Ah! well; his sister—Miss Alice Lisle. Go on."
"Faith, Stuart, you seem confoundedly confused. Do settle this matter in peace. Lisle has told me the story, in confidence, and I think you have been to blame,—indeed you have. Send Lisle an apology, for I assure you he is boiling with passion, and will not yield a hair's breadth."
"Chisholm, then how in the devil's name can you suppose that I will?" exclaimed Ronald, his anger getting the better of his confusion. "Never, by Heaven! never will I apologize when I have suffered the indignity. He has challenged me, and fate must now decide. I will meet him."
"Well, then, time presses; we march at sunrise. Who is your friend?"
"Alister Macdonald, if he has returned; if not, I shall have Logan."
"Macdonald returned about midnight with some stragglers from Torrijos, and will not relish being disturbed so early."