THE END OF THE DUEL The sun was slightly above the horizon, still showing round and red through the slight mist of early morning, as the major and I passed down the deserted front steps, and circled the house on our way to the place of meeting.

Under his arm was the leather case containing the derringers, and we crossed the intervening turf without exchanging a word.

I was myself in no mood for conversation, and Hardy appeared equally inclined to silence.

I glanced across at him, noting how straight he stood in his well-worn uniform, how gray his hair was, and the stern manliness of his face.

From head to foot he was the gentleman and the soldier.