We must strike up their swords at the first scratch." "It will make them very mad, sir." "Hang them! let them fight us then, if they don't like our counsel.

It must be, Arthur." "Be sure, sir," said Arthur, "that whatsoever you shall command I shall perform.

It is only too great an honor to a young man as I am to find myself in the same duel with your worship, and to have the advantage of your wisdom and experience." Sir Richard smiles, and says--"Now, gentlemen! are you ready ?" The Spaniard pulls out a little crucifix, and kisses it devoutly, smiting on his breast; crosses himself two or three times, and says--"Most willingly, senor." Cary kisses no crucifix, but says a prayer nevertheless.
Cloaks and doublets are tossed off, the men placed, the rapiers measured hilt and point; Sir Richard and St.Leger place themselves right and left of the combatants, facing each other, the points of their drawn swords on the sand.

Cary and the Spaniard stand for a moment quite upright, their sword-arms stretched straight before them, holding the long rapier horizontally, the left hand clutching the dagger close to their breasts.

So they stand eye to eye, with clenched teeth and pale crushed lips, while men might count a score; St.Leger can hear the beating of his own heart; Sir Richard is praying inwardly that no life may be lost.