"May we ask, sir, at least whether Colonel Grant's observation of Count Samoval resulted from any knowledge of, or expectation of, this duel that was impending ?" "Certainly you may ask that," Lord Wellington, consented.
"It did not, sir," said Colonel Grant in answer to the question.
"What grounds had you, Colonel Grant, for assuming that Count Samoval was going to Monsanto ?" the president asked.
"Chiefly the direction taken." "And nothing else ?" "I think we are upon forbidden ground again," said Colonel Grant, and again he looked at Lord Wellington for direction.
"I do not see the point of the question," said Lord Wellington, replying to that glance.

"Colonel Grant has quite plainly informed the court that his observation of Count Samoval had no slightest connection with this duel, nor was inspired by any knowledge or suspicion on his part that any such duel was to be fought.

With that I think the court should be content.

It has been necessary for Colonel Grant to explain to the court his own presence at Monsanto at midnight on the 28th.

It would have been better, perhaps, had he simply stated that it was fortuitous, although I can understand that the court might have hesitated to accept such a statement.