“He would do so, readily, were there any prospect of adjusting the matter upon an honorable footing.”
“Mr. Carter will be pleased to name the basis for what he esteems an honorable adjustment.”
“Mr. Perkins withdraws his challenge.”
“We have no objection to that.”
“He substitutes a courteous requisition upon Mr. Clifford for an explanation of certain language, supposed to be offensive, made to a lady.”
“Mr. Clifford denies, without qualification, the employment of any such language.”
“This throws us back on our old ground,” said Carter—“there is a lady in question—”
“Who can not certainly be brought into the controversy,” said Kingsley—“I see no other remedy, Mr. Carter, but that we should place the parties. We are here to answer to your final summons.”
“Very good, sir; this matter, and what happens, must lie at your door. You are peremptory. I trust you have provided a surgeon.”
“His services are at your need, sir,” replied Kingsley with military courtesy.