Mr.Nupkins looked calmly terrible, and commanded that the lady should be shown in; which command, like all the mandates of emperors, and magistrates, and other great potentates of the earth, was forthwith obeyed; and Miss Witherfield, interestingly agitated, was ushered in accordingly.
'Muzzle!' said the magistrate.
Muzzle was an undersized footman, with a long body and short legs.
'Muzzle!' 'Yes, your Worship.' 'Place a chair, and leave the room.' 'Yes, your Worship.' 'Now, ma'am, will you state your business ?' said the magistrate.
'It is of a very painful kind, Sir,' said Miss Witherfield.
'Very likely, ma'am,' said the magistrate.

'Compose your feelings, ma'am.' Here Mr.Nupkins looked benignant.

'And then tell me what legal business brings you here, ma'am.' Here the magistrate triumphed over the man; and he looked stern again.
'It is very distressing to me, Sir, to give this information,' said Miss Witherfield, 'but I fear a duel is going to be fought here.' 'Here, ma'am ?' said the magistrate.

'Where, ma'am ?' 'In Ipswich.' 'In Ipswich, ma'am! A duel in Ipswich!' said the magistrate, perfectly aghast at the notion.

'Impossible, ma'am; nothing of the kind can be contemplated in this town, I am persuaded.