That stung the Marquis.

'Have a care! have a care!' he cried hotly. 'You go too far,
M. Berault.'

'De Berault, if you please,' I objected, eyeing him sternly. 'My
family has borne the DE as long as yours, M. de Pombal.'

He could not deny that, and he answered, 'As you please;' at the
same time restraining his friend by a gesture. 'But none the
less,' he continued, 'take my advice. The Cardinal has forbidden
duelling, and this time he means it! You have been in trouble
once and gone free. A second time it may fare worse with you.
Let this gentleman go, therefore, M. de Berault. Besides--why,
shame upon you, man!' he exclaimed hotly; 'he is but a lad!'

Two or three who stood behind me applauded that, But I turned and
they met my eye; and they were as mum as mice.

'His age is his own concern,' I said grimly. 'He was old enough
a while ago to insult me.'

'And I will prove my words!' the lad cried, exploding at last.
He had spirit enough, and the Marquis had had hard work to
restrain him so long. 'You do me no service, M. de Pombal,' he
continued, pettishly shaking off his friend's hand. 'By your
leave, this gentleman and I will settle this matter.'

'That is better,' I said, nodding drily, while the Marquis stood
aside, frowning and baffled. 'Permit me to lead the way.'