The lackey meantime gave signs of terror. He was a swordsman, but realized that all his skill would go for naught, seeing that the game was exposed. Indeed, a most remarkable tableau was presented, but Girard tried to play out to save his confrères. He said:
"Well, well, Dunne, I expected to work a big scare on you, but I see you have been too smart. The next time I attempt a practical joke I will measure my intended victim better."
"Ah, you will?"
"Yes."
"Then this was all a joke?"
"Certainly; but you have proved yourself the best joker."
"You think so?"
"Yes, I am dead beat."
"And as you say it was all a joke."
"Certainly, you know it was."