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216 far, that it was impossible to avoid a challenge. The Duke determined instantly on this method of concluding the matter, and, at parting, we agreed to meet next morning with pistols in a neighbouring wood.

“At daybreak, accordingly, we made our appearance there, each attended by a servant. As Marino observed that I had not prepared my attendant with directions what should be done in case of my death, he undertook this duty himself, and gave orders for the disposal of my body, as if the worst had already happened. At the same time, he had the insolence to remind me, that he was young—that his hand, in several former encounters, had proved so steady, that he never failed to hit the mark as he had intended. On these occasions he had not wished to inflict a mortal wound; but now the case was very different. It was necessary, for his own safety, that I should be cleared out of his way; however, if I would still give my word of honour not to mention his former life at Venice, he would look upon the dispute as at an end, and return amicably to the castle.

“Of course I refused his proposal. ‘Then