"Still, what you advance is in the main true.

But every man has a certain trick of his own which he has worked out all by himself, regardless of rules, in defiance of the teachings of the fencing-master.

Perhaps I have one which the vicomte is not familiar with." "I hope so," said the Chevalier.
"Doubtless he has," added the vicomte.
At four the fencing bouts began between the gentlemen.

There were some exciting contests, but ere half an hour was gone the number had resolved itself into two, Victor and the vicomte.
"Well, Monsieur," said the latter, pleasantly, "suppose we share the laurels ?" "We shall, with your permission, make the victory more definite," replied the poet, testing his foil and saluting the ladies above.
"As you please," and the vicomte stepped into position.
It was a pretty exhibition.

For a long time it seemed that neither Victor nor the vicomte had any advantage.