"If he is a master, I have a better chance against him as it is than if I were an average swordsman. He will at least not know what I am going to do, as he would know with one who fenced according to rules."
"But he will kill you! No, do not fight him with swords, Juan. Let him challenge you, and be sure you name pistols."
"Would you have me murder the man?" I protested.
"You need not shoot to kill."
"That is true. But, dearest, let us speak of more important matters. You have not yet told me—"
"I wrote of your danger from His Excellency, Juan. Be prudent. Make as few enemies as you can. You have many friends."
"Walker has intimated that I shall gain more friends if I tame this Andalusian bull."
"Nada! If the swashbuckler challenges, you must fight, Juan. I know that. But do not force the matter yourself. He stands high in the favor of His Excellency."
"Alisanda," I replied, "you, like all others here, are far too much in fear of this tyrant Governor-General. But rest assured Lieutenant Pike and I comprehend the man and the situation. Should we show the slightest sign of weakness, I at least will at once be flung into prison, if not garrotted. The only course which will avert the blow is for us to show a bold front."
"Yet a little diplomacy—"