Fear conquered even the mad passion of hatred that was raging in the breast of the bully.
“The young fool is mad! He doesn’t know what he is saying!” he muttered, and he fired the pistol in the air and folded his arms sullenly.
“Now, I am ready for you, if you wish, Buffalo Bill!” he said.
The border king walked up to him and replied, in a high, clear voice that all could hear:
“I will stand up to you and fight you, if you wish; but first I wish to offer you an apology for striking you last night. If you care to accept it our duel need not take place. It is for you to decide.”
The men standing around were amazed—and not least among them young Mainwaring. Buffalo Bill apologize and try to avoid a duel! It seemed incredible, but his courage was so well known that he could afford to do what would have branded any other man as a coward.
It was the price he paid for Mainwaring’s life, although the young man never knew it.
Ketchum did not share the surprise of the rest. He understood perfectly.
“I accept your apology, sir,” he said, with a clumsy attempt at dignity. “As you suggest, the duel need not take place.”
The two men bowed to one another, but did not offer to shake hands.