They were simple fencing foils, the buttons being removed and the points sharpened--there was nothing to choose between them.

The seconds then each took a sword, and stationed the combatants some seven or eight paces apart, while they themselves stood a little aside, each upon the right hand of his principal, and the witnesses placed themselves at opposite corners of the ground, the surgeons remaining at the ends behind the antagonists.

There was a moment's pause.

When all was ready, old Saracinesca came close to Giovanni, while Del Ferice's second approached his principal in like manner.
"Giovanni," said the old Prince, gravely, "as your second I am bound to recommend you to make any advance in your power towards a friendly understanding.

Can you do so ?" "No, father, I cannot," answered Giovanni, with a slight smile.