I cannot undertake anything more against him, my lord duke; henceforth he is sacred to me.

Besides, it would be a pity to destroy such a swordsman--good ones are rare in these degenerate days, and growing more so every year.

I don't believe he has his equal on earth.

Most men handle a sword as if it were a broomstick nowadays, and then expect to be praised and applauded, the clumsy, stupid fools! Now, I have given my reasons for coming to inform your highness that I must resign the commission I had accepted.

As for the money there, I might perhaps have been justified in keeping it, to indemnify me for the great risk and peril I incurred, but such a questionable proceeding would be repugnant to my tender conscience and my honest pride, as your highness can understand." "In the name of all the devils in the infernal regions, take back your money!" cried Vallombreuse impetuously, "or I will have you pitched out of the window yonder, you and your money both.