Tom, I am going to trust you to act as my second in a little affair I have with another gentleman tomorrow morning, in a certain spot of which I have knowledge.

Another man was to have acted for me--he has, indeed, made all the arrangements; but, as yon note informs me, he was mixed up in a brawl last evening at the gaming house, and lies abed with a broken arm.

'Tis not a matter I would have get wind, else there be a dozen men who would serve my turn.

I had rather one silent, steady comrade than a score of chattering jays.

So you shall be my friend, Tom, and see what duelling is like." "You are not in danger of death, my lord, or grievous bodily hurt?
Else I fear I should break the rules of the game and dash to your succour!" "Tush, boy!" answered the other, with a gleam in his eyes, "I have yet to find my match with the rapier; I shall get off without a scratch, you will see.