"Captain Bell," I asked, "I presume you have some acquaintance with the duelling code?"
He bowed gravely, waiting for me to explain.
"Captain Le Gaire has seen fit to strike me in the face with his open hand, and I have agreed to meet him at once. Will you act for the gentleman?"
"Why not Major Hardy?"
"Because he will represent my interests."
Bell turned his eyes toward the major, puzzled and uncertain.
"This looks rather queer to me, Hardy. Has Le Gaire done something which will prevent my acting in his behalf?"
Hardy stroked his chin, and squared his shoulders.
"Captain Le Gaire made some reflections on my family, sir, which I resent. I refused to act for him on that ground, but I know of no reason why you could not honorably serve. I merely prefer to assist Galesworth."
Bell hesitated, feeling, no doubt, there was something behind all this he did not comprehend. It was also evident enough that he was no admirer of Le Gaire, the latter gazing at him without a word.