'You surely do not mean that you come to propose terms for a duel?'

'I have come just for that purpose; and shall immediately wait upon
any friend you will name to me.'

'But there must really be some mistake. I am not aware of having
used any language that could evoke the resentment of your friend.'
Harland simply shrugged his shoulders.

'I am not here to discuss that point.' And he rose with scorn upon
his face. 'I take the word of my friend upon the matter; and he is a
gentleman and a man of honour.' At this reply Mr. Ham adopted a new
line of policy, and with it a completely altered manner and tone.

'Well, Mr. Harland, suppose that it be as you say with respect to
the provocation; there is another feature of the matter which I bring
forward with reluctance, considering your relations of friendship
with Mr. Gray.' Here he paused.

'Pray, proceed sir.'

'I may say, Mr. Harland, that the repute of Mr. Gray is not the
highest; and considering my own character and standing I do not see
how it is possible for me to engage in a combat of honour with him.
My position as I have said is unquestioned; but I know nothing of
your friend save that report speaks of him as an adventurer without
character. He has had a good education, and all that, and associates
with people of my own standing; but these facts count for little.'

'Pardon me, sir,' Harland replied with a haughty smile. 'I intend