We went, therefore, Monsieur de Breuilly and I, to consult Monsieur George on the subject.

He pronounced at once in favor of swords.
"But," remarked Monsieur de Breuilly, "you are a very good pistol-shot.

I have seen you at work.

Are you certain to be a better swordsman?
Do not deceive yourself; this will be a mortal combat." "I am satisfied of that," he replied, with a smile; "but I am particularly anxious for swords, if at all possible." After the expression of so formal a wish, we could but esteem ourselves fortunate in obtaining the choice of arms, and the meeting was settled for the next morning at nine o'clock.
During the remainder of the day, Monsieur George manifested an ease of mind, and even at intervals a certain gayety, at which we were quite surprised, and which Madame de Malouet, in particular, was at a loss to understand.

My poor wife of course had been left in ignorance of these recent events.
At ten o'clock he retired, and I could still see a light through his window two hours later.