"Then take this, and strike, if you dare.

Take it--strike, Madame! It is sharp, and my arms are open." And he flung them wide, standing within a pace of her.

"Here, above the collar-bone, is the surest for a weak hand.

What, afraid ?" he continued, as, stiffly clutching the weapon which he had put into her hand, she glared at him, trembling and astonished.

"Afraid, and a Vrillac! Afraid, and 'tis but one blow! See, my arms are open.