The major commandant and the officers retired to consult, and, after a few minutes, they agreed that the lieutenant was bound to give the satisfaction required.

The lieutenant replied that he was ready; but, at the same time, did not appear to be very willing.

The prisoners were left in charge of the soldiers, under a junior officer, while the others, accompanied by O'Brien, myself, and the lieutenant, walked to a short distance outside the town.

As we proceeded there, I asked O'Brien with what weapons they would fight.
"I take it for granted," replied he, "that it will be with the small sword." "But," said I, "do you know anything about fencing ?" "Devil a bit, Peter; but that's all in my favour." "How can that be ?" replied I.
"I'll tell you, Peter.

If one man fences well, and another is but an indifferent hand at it, it is clear that the first will run the other through the body; but, if the other knows nothing at all about it, why then, Peter, the case is not quite so clear: because the good fencer is almost as much puzzled by your ignorance as you are by his skill, and you become on more equal terms.