When they were placed in position they thought it was time to begin--and then did begin, too, and with a most impetuous energy, without waiting for anybody to give the word.

This vastly amused the spectators, and even broke down their studied and courtly gravity and surprised them into laughter.

Of course the seconds struck up the swords and started the duel over again.

At the word, the deluge of blows began, but before long the surgeon once more interfered--for the only reason which ever permits him to interfere--and the day's war was over.

It was now two in the afternoon, and I had been present since half past nine in the morning.