Swords were called for and procured.

Two were offered me by one of the party.

I was about to choose one, when Zanoni placed in my hand the other, which, from its hilt, appeared of antiquated workmanship.

At the same moment, looking towards the prince, he said, smilingly, 'The duc takes your grandsire's sword.

Prince, you are too brave a man for superstition; you have forgot the forfeit!' Our host seemed to me to recoil and turn pale at those words; nevertheless, he returned Zanoni's smile with a look of defiance.