"And pray, what would he do to me ?" "He would probably ask you again for that pistol you refused to lend him the other day." I thought I might as well show that I knew all about the meeting in the road.

But Lira laughed grimly, and the idea of a fight seemed to please him.
"I would not refuse it this time.

In fact, since you mention it, I think I will go and offer it to him now.

Do you think I should be justified, Master Censor ?" "No," said I, coming forward and facing him.

"But if you like you can fight me.