'You see,' I said, 'there is one consideration that you appear to overlook: there are a great many chances that your pistol may miss fire.' 'I have a pair,' he returned.

'Never travel without a brace of barkers.' 'I make you my compliment,' said I.

'You are able to take care of yourself, and that is a good trait.

But, my good man! let us look at this matter dispassionately.

You are not a coward, and no more am I; we are both men of excellent sense; I have good reason, whatever it may be, to keep my concerns to myself and to walk alone.