And there was but one way.

I looked at the two troopers, who were staring at us in deep interest; at Miles' grinning appreciation of the scene, and at Hardy, puzzled, but still angry at the use of his daughter's name.
Then my eyes met the captain's.
"I am greatly inclined to accommodate you, Captain Le Gaire," I said quietly, "and give you any opportunity you may desire on equal terms.
Sergeant, take the men into the hall." They passed out reluctantly enough, and I stepped over to make certain the door was securely closed.

Then I came back, and fronted the fellow.
He had not changed his position, although the major had again risen to his feet.
"Well," I asked, "now what is it you wish to say ?" "Am I no longer a prisoner ?" "Not so far as our personal relations are concerned.

My men will prevent your leaving these grounds, or sending out any message before night.
Otherwise you are at liberty.

Now what do you propose doing ?" My unexpected promptness dazed him, but in no way diminished his anger.
"Will you fight me ?" "I see no occasion for it." "Then I will furnish one." Before I could recoil, or even realize his purpose, he sprang the single necessary step forward and, with open hand, struck me in the face.
"Even a blue-belly should understand the meaning of that," he exclaimed hotly.
I did understand, the hot blood surging to my cheeks, yet in some mysterious way I never in my life felt cooler, more completely in control of myself.