moment he would have drawn his sword against all the Musketeers
in the kingdom as willingly as he now did against Athos, Porthos,
and Aramis.

It was a quarter past midday. The sun was in its zenith, and the
spot chosen for the scene of the duel was exposed to its full
ardor.

"It is very hot," said Athos, drawing his sword in its turn, "and
yet I cannot take off my doublet; for I just now felt my wound
begin to bleed again, and I should not like to annoy Monsieur
with the sight of blood which he has not drawn from me himself."

"That is true, Monsieur," replied d'Artagnan, "and whether drawn
by myself or another, I assure you I shall always view with
regret the blood of so brave a gentleman. I will therefore fight
in my doublet, like yourself."

"Come, come, enough of such compliments!" cried Porthos.
"Remember, we are waiting for our turns."

"Speak for yourself when you are inclined to utter such
incongruities," interrupted Aramis. "For my part, I think what
they say is very well said, and quite worthy of two gentlemen."

"When you please, monsieur," said Athos, putting himself on
guard.

"I waited your orders," said d'Artagnan, crossing swords.