At the signal Unziar raised his pistol and fired.
Rallywood stood in his place for some thirty seconds, while there was a sound of splintering glass as the bullet rushed out into the darkness above the river; then he advanced smiling.
'It seems,' he said,'that I was right.'
Unziar stared at him.
Rallywood handed his pistol to Jenard, and bowing to the assembled men ceremoniously, he went on:
'I hope we may consider the affair concluded, and as I am engaged for the dance that is about to begin, I trust you will excuse me.'
And with another bow he was gone. No one spoke for a little while, then Unziar walked towards the others with no very pleasant face. That Rallywood had done a thing above reproach, and in a manner above reproach, made it none the easier for his pride to accept the result. But he was above all considerations and before all considerations true to himself—to Anthony Unziar.
'Captain Rallywood has made his point and a reputation,' he said at last. 'I think, Colendorp, you will agree with me that as men of honour we must consider the matter ended.'
'And in Captain Rallywood's favour?' asked Colendorp suddenly.
'Certainly. What do you say, gentlemen?' Adiron spoke with warmth.