And before, as a man of honour, you can have any right to give a second challenge, you must answer the first.
Is that your opinion, sir?
Nay, I appeal to yourself.
Allons!—If so, I must leap! Will you do me the favour to accompany me? I will order post-horses instantly. You shall be my witness that I perform the first condition.
Can you swim?
Ventrebleu! What a question! I am not heavy enough to sink. Besides, sir, I was born at Marseilles.—Yes, we will go together; you shall see me make the leap; after which I may then return and publish my defiance to the whole universe.
No, sir! If you leap you will never publish your defiance!
How so?
You will be killed! The whole universe could not save you!
Comment, diable! Look at me! Look at Monsieur Calif! I am as light as—! Peste!