An instant after, the Guardsman descended in his turn.

As d'Artagnan had no time to lose, on account of the audience of the king, which was fixed for midday, he cast his eyes around, and seeing that the street was empty, said to his adversary, "My faith! It is fortunate for you, although your name is Bernajoux, to have only to deal with an apprentice Musketeer.

Never mind; be content, I will do my best.

On guard!" "But," said he whom d'Artagnan thus provoked, "it appears to me that this place is badly chosen, and that we should be better behind the Abbey St.Germain or in the Pre-aux-Clercs." "What you say is full of sense," replied d'Artagnan; "but unfortunately I have very little time to spare, having an appointment at twelve precisely.

On guard, then, monsieur, on guard!" Bernajoux was not a man to have such a compliment paid to him twice.
In an instant his sword glittered in his hand, and he sprang upon his adversary, whom, thanks to his great youthfulness, he hoped to intimidate.
But d'Artagnan had on the preceding day served his apprenticeship.