Major O’Rooke, to whom these remarks were particularly addressed, had each intimated his approval, “Quick, sir,” added Prince Florizel to the President, “choose a blade and do not keep me waiting; I have an impatience to be done with you for ever.” 

 For the first time since he was captured and disarmed the President raised his head, and it was plain that he began instantly to pluck up courage. 

 “Is it to be stand up?” he asked eagerly, “and between you and me?” 

 “I mean so far to honour you,” replied the Prince. 

 “Oh, come!” cried the President. “With a fair field, who knows how things may happen? I must add that I consider it handsome behaviour on your Highness’s part; and if the worst comes to the worst I shall die by one of the most gallant gentlemen in Europe.” 

 And the President, liberated by those who had detained him, stepped up to the table and began, with minute attention, to select a sword. He was highly elated, and seemed to feel no doubt that he should issue victorious from the contest. The spectators grew alarmed in the face of so entire a confidence, and adjured Prince Florizel to reconsider his intention. 

 “It is but a farce,” he answered; “and I think I can promise you, gentlemen, that it will not be long a-playing.” 

 “Your Highness will be careful not to over-reach,” said Colonel Geraldine. 

 “Geraldine,” returned the Prince, “did you ever know me fail in a debt of honour? I owe you this man’s death, and you shall have it.” 

 The President at last satisfied himself with one of the rapiers, and signified his readiness by a gesture that was not devoid of a rude nobility. The nearness of peril, and the sense of courage, even to this obnoxious villain, lent an air of manhood and a certain grace. 

 The Prince helped himself at random to a sword. 

 “Colonel Geraldine and Doctor Noel,” he said, “will have the goodness to await me in this room. I wish no personal friend of mine to be involved in this transaction. Major O’Rooke, you are a man of some years and a settled reputation—let me recommend the President to your good graces. Lieutenant Rich will be so good as lend me his attentions: a young man cannot have too much experience in such affairs.” 

 “Your Highness,” replied Brackenbury, “it is an 

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