Page:The Mysterious Warning - Parsons (1796, volume 3).djvu/89

 Though you are inferior in birth, in rank to me; yet, as having borne arms, I wave my privileges, and challenge you to meet me to-morrow at eight o'clock, in a field at the west end of the city. Your blood only can atone for this outrage."—"I accept the offer," replied my father. Then turning to the Countess—"I feel for you, Madam;—and nothing less than the justice I owe to my child could compel me to give you pain.—Read that letter, Madam, and judge for yourself." He gave my letter into her hands:—The Count exclaimed, "an impudent forgery," and attempted to take it from her.—"No, my Lord," said she—"no, I will read it; but strong indeed must be the proofs, e'er I can credit any thing to the disadvantage of your honour."

"Go," cried the old Count arrogantly—"go, Sir, after having interrupted the happiness of this family, to preserve the fame of a worthless daughter; leave it, whilst I can command myself; to-morrow, at eight, I shall expect you." Without deigning any