Bell evidently did not know either what to say or do. This threw an entirely new light on the situation, and left him in an awkward position. He shuffled uneasily about.
"Would--would you gentlemen mind my consulting Captain Le Gaire again?" he questioned doubtfully. "I think he should fully understand his opponent's skill."
Hardy laughed, completely at ease, and enjoying the other's dilemma.
"Well, I hardly know about that, Bell. Under the laws of the code we can hold you to your first choice, and I'm inclined to do so. Great joke on Le Gaire. However, I am willing to leave it to my man. What do you say, Galesworth?"
I had retired to the opposite side of the room, and was leaning with one arm on the mantel. In spite of the seriousness of the affair, it was impossible not to be amused by this sudden turn. Bell's eyes shifted questioningly toward me.
"Surely Lieutenant Galesworth will not desire to take any undue advantage," he ventured.
"Was not that Captain Le Gaire's idea?" I returned sharply. "He has the reputation of expert swordsmanship."
"He is a swordsman, yes, but does not profess to excel with the sabre."
I waited a moment in silence, permitting my hesitancy to become plainly apparent.
"Well, Captain Bell, much as I prefer the weapons already named, I will nevertheless consent to a change. I am ready to concede anything if I can only compel your man to fight."