"If you retire, captain," I responded, pressing his hand, "I will also leave, and not be answerable for the result—and what will be the consequence? I can assure you, upon my honor, that these gentlemen will fight without seconds."
The officer bowed and waved his hand, in sign of forced acquiescence. After a short pause, he continued: "We have entered upon a very distasteful affair, and the sooner it is ended the better. Have they decided upon the weapons?"
"They have decided, monsieur, to draw lots for the choice of arms," I replied.
"Then," he cried, "there has been no insult given or received; they are both in the right and both in the wrong."
"Exactly so, captain."
"I suppose we will have to consent to it. Let us draw for the weapons, since it is agreed upon."
The lot fell on the sword.
"With this weapon," I said, "all the disadvantages are on the side of M. de Meilhan; the skilful fencing of his adversary is celebrated among amateurs. He is one of Pons's best scholars."
"Have you brought a surgeon?" said the captain.
"Yes, monsieur, we left Dr. Gillard in a house near by."