He has also insulted the noblest woman that ever lived.
If I backed down, I should be called a coward; the people who respect
me now would close their doors in my face."
"But you have everything to lose, and he has nothing to gain."
"It cannot be helped," said I. "The woman I love once fought a duel
for me; I cannot do less for her. You will be my second?"
"Yes. But if he wounds you, woe to him."
"Very well, I'll leave you," said I.
It was not far to the residence of Their Highnesses, so I walked. It
was a fine night, and the frost sang beneath my heels. I had never
fought a duel. This time no one would stand between. I was glad of
this. I wanted Gretchen to know that I, too, was brave, but hitherto
had lacked the opportunity to show it. It was really for her sake,
after all, even though it would be something to avenge poor Hillars.
And I wondered, as I walked along, would Gretchen and Phyllis love each
other? It was difficult to guess, since, though sisters, they were
utter strangers in lives and beliefs. Soon my journey came to an end,
and I found myself mounting the broad marble steps of the Hohenphalian
mansion.
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