"Sir," interrupted Mr.Tyrrel abruptly, "that lady is my partner."-- "I believe not, sir: that lady has been so obliging as to accept my invitation."-- "I tell you, sir, no.
Sir, I have an interest in that lady's affections; and I will suffer no man to intrude upon my claims."-- "The lady's affections are not the subject of the present question."-- "Sir, it is to no purpose to parley.
Make room, sir!"-- Mr.Falkland gently repelled his antagonist.

"Mr.
Tyrrel!" returned he, with some firmness, "let us have no altercation in this business: the master of the ceremonies is the proper person to decide in a difference of this sort, if we cannot adjust it: we can neither of us intend to exhibit our valour before the ladies, and shall therefore cheerfully submit to his verdict."-- "Damn me, sir, if I understand--" "Softly, Mr.Tyrrel; I intended you no offence.

But, sir, no man shall prevent my asserting that to which I have once acquired a claim!" Mr.Falkland uttered these words with the most unruffled temper in the world.

The tone in which he spoke had acquired elevation, but neither roughness nor impatience.

There was a fascination in his manner that made the ferociousness of his antagonist subside into impotence.