Then he hastily examined his sword, which was found to be in quite as good condition as before, proving that the fault did not lie in that quarter at least.
Having awakened to the knowledge that he had a job cut out before him that would require his utmost endeavors, Don Porfidio braced his bulky frame for a prodigious effort.
As the two antagonists stood there facing one another, like a pair of Roman gladiators about to do battle royal the girl suddenly darted between.
"You must not, shall not fight!" she exclaimed.
The general let out a roar.
"Stand back, on your life, rash girl. This is a business in which I will brook no interference."
"But uncle, dear uncle, you do not know——"
"I know all I desire, and I shall make it my solemn duty to teach this rascal a lesson he will never forget. Therefore I command you, Georgia, to leave the room!"
"No, no, it would be a crime," she continued, endeavoring to cling to his sword arm.
But the testy old don's fighting blood was up, and in such a condition he would stand no interference even from one whom he loved so dearly.