I tell you that I meant, I designed, I thirsted to affront you.

Now resent my purposed--premeditated affront as you will and can!" There was something remarkable in the contrasted figures of the rivals, as they now stood fronting each other.

The elastic and vigorous form of Walter Lester, his sparkling eyes, his sunburnt and glowing cheek, his clenched hands, and his whole frame, alive and eloquent with the energy, the heat, the hasty courage, and fiery spirit of youth; on the other hand,--the bending frame of the student, gradually rising into the dignity of its full height--his pale cheek, in which the wan hues neither deepened nor waned, his large eye raised to meet Walter's bright, steady, and yet how calm! Nothing weak, nothing irresolute could be traced in that form--or that lofty countenance; yet all resentment had vanished from his aspect.

He seemed at once tranquil and prepared.
"You designed to affront me!" said he; "it is well--it is a noble confession;--and wherefore?
What do you propose to gain by it ?--a man whose whole life is peace, you would provoke to outrage?
Would there be triumph in this, or disgrace ?--A man whom your uncle honours and loves, you would insult without cause--you would waylay--you would, after watching and creating your opportunity, entrap into defending himself.
Is this worthy of that high spirit of which you boasted ?--is this worthy a generous anger, or a noble hatred?
Away! you malign yourself.

I shrink from no quarrel--why should I?
I have nothing to fear: my nerves are firm--my heart is faithful to my will; my habits may have diminished my strength, but it is yet equal to that of most men.