“Don’t be alarmed; we are perfectly well aware that you don’t count.”
“Messieurs,” said the little, lame man, approaching Edmond’s seconds, “if Monsieur Edmond Didier chooses to apologize to Monsieur Luminot, he will agree to acknowledge satisfaction.”
“We shall not communicate that proposition to Monsieur Edmond,” replied Paul, “because we know that he would reject it with scorn!”
“Still, you might——”
“Enough of this! You have pistols, and we accept them. Allow me to examine them.”
While Paul examined the weapons, Chamoureau drew his handkerchief, wiped his brow and held out his arms toward Freluchon, saying:
“Try to adjust this business, in heaven’s name!”
“Let us alone, and go farther away.”
“How many paces?” Paul asked the lame man.
“Twenty-five.”