Page:Dick Hamilton's Cadet Days.djvu/204

188 point of land that jutted out into the lake, and near a small lagoon. It was some distance from the academy buildings, and out of sight. The trees had kept most of the snow from the ground, and it was a sheltered place. As there was a full moon there was no need of other light.

As Dick and Paul approached the place they saw several dark figures moving about.

"They're on time," whispered Paul.

"Yes. I hope the Colonel doesn't hear of it."

As they drew nearer, Stiver stepped forward and said:

"Is your man ready. Drew?"

"All ready."

"Then we demand to know the weapons. My principal will object to pistols, as they make too much noise."

"My principal has the choice of weapons, as you know, and unless he is allowed to exercise it we must decline to fight."

Paul spoke as though it was very serious.

"I know, but, hang it all, man, we can't fight with pistols. We'd have the whole crowd down on us," objected Stiver, in some alarm.

"I'll not fight with pistols," put in Dutton, which was a wrong thing for a brave duelist to do.

"Don't be worried," replied Dick cooly. "I have not selected pistols. But we are delaying too long. I am ready."

"So are we," said Stiver, but it was observed that his voice was not very steady. He was