You have perhaps a
fortnight in which to improve your markmanship. The matter which shall
carry us abroad will conclude within that time. I shoot and fence with
my left hand as well as I did with my right."
"I shall be only too happy to meet you," I replied. "I prefer the
pistol, there is less exertion, and it is quicker."
"You shall have every advantage," said the Prince. "You will have that
to nerve your arm which I shall not have--a woman's love." With a bow
which was not without a certain dignity and grace, he walked from the
room.
Phyllis a Princess? Gretchen free? I sent for my coat and hat and
went out. I forgot all about my appointment with Col. J---- of the
Queen's light and that I had left Pembroke playing billiards in a
strange club, where I myself had been but a guest. The crisp October
air blew in my face as I rapidly walked up the mall, and it cooled the
fever in my veins. But my mind ran on rather wildly. Gretchen free?
Phyllis a Princess? Gretchen's little word, "perhaps," came back and
sang into my ears. Yet, win or lose, I was to meet the Prince in
mortal combat.
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