“’Tis murder,” she wailed weeping. “Thou art my dear friend. Clifford is my dear cousin. Oh, I pray ye both to desist.”
“If you flout me longer I will cut you down where you stand,” roared the British youth fiercely. “Is it not enough that I must beg for the satisfaction that gentlemen usually accord each other upon a hint?”
Drayton wheeled, and faced him jauntily.
“’Tis pity to keep so much valor waiting,” he said saluting. “On guard, my friend.”
CHAPTER XXV—HER NEAREST RELATIVE
| “In all trade of war no feat Is nobler than a brave retreat; For those that run away and fly Take place at least of the enemy.” —Samuel Butler. |
Fearful of what might result from the encounter Peggy hid her face in her hands as the two youths crossed swords. But at the first meeting of the blades, impelled by that strange fascination which such combats hold for the best of mortals, she uncovered her eyes and watched the duel breathlessly.
Clifford, white and wrathful, fuming over Drayton’s last quip, at once took the initiative, and advanced upon his adversary with a vehemence that evidenced his emotion plainly. Drayton, on the contrary, was cool and even merry, and parried his opponent’s thrusts with adroitness. Both lads evinced no small skill with the weapons, and had Peggy been other than a very much distressed damsel she might have enjoyed some pretty sword play.
The wrist of each youth was strong and supple. Each sword seemed like a flexible reed from the point to the middle of the blade, and inflexible steel from thence to the guard. They were well matched, and some moments passed before either of them secured the advantage.
It was quiet in the grove. No sound could be heard save the clash of steel and the deep breathing of the contestants. No bird note came from tree or bush. Not a leaf stirred. A hush had fallen upon the summer afternoon. To the maiden it seemed as though Nature, affrighted by the wild passions of men which must seek expression in private fray despite the fact that their countries were embroiled in war, had sunk into terrified silence.