"If you think that he considers it luck because you are wounded, you are mistaken," I replied.
"He had the advantage in the use of a weapon with which he is accustomed, and therefore I did not expect a favorable result. Had we used pistols, he would now be occupying my place."
"Ah, have done with your boasting, lieutenant, and think no more of the quarrel. Ye challenged the gentleman, and he accepted and chose his weapons; and it's mighty lucky ye may think yourself to get off with life, for he could have killed ye as easily as a kangaroo. It's myself that knows he could have done it," said the surgeon, warmly.
"Is that so?" asked Wattles, turning to me for confirmation.
"He could have killed you, had he been so disposed, even at twice the distance," I replied.
The lieutenant looked sober and thoughtful for a moment, when, thinking to make an impression, and get him to drop the quarrel forever, I continued,—
"My friend did contemplate firing over your head, and would have done so had not your looks convinced him that you intended mischief."
"By the Lord, I aimed for a vital part, but am glad that I missed my object. Ask your friend to shake hands with me. From all accounts I'm convinced that he is a gentleman to cherish and know."
"Ah, Wattles, divil fear ye but yer heart is in the right place, afther all," cried the doctor, delighted at the proposed reconciliation.
I told Fred the request of his adversary, and without a moment's hesitation he joined the group, and extended his hand to the wounded man.