let yourself be killed; but if it is a possible thing don't kill
your adversary. Everything considered, he is a gallant man, and
the day will come when I shall need such men at my side."

"I shall do my best, general; don't be alarmed." At this moment
the landlord appeared upon the thresh-hold of the door.

"The post-chaise is ready," said he.

The general took his hat and his cane, which he had laid upon
the chair. Roland, on the contrary, followed him bareheaded,
that all might see plainly he did not intend to leave with his
friend. Alfred de Barjols, therefore, offered no opposition to his
leaving the room. Besides, it was easy to see that his adversary
was of those who seek rather than avoid quarrels.

"Just the same," said the general, seating himself in the carriage
to which Roland had escorted him, "my heart is heavy at leaving
you thus, Roland, without a friend to act as your second."

"Good! Don't worry about that, general; seconds are never lacking.
There are and always will be enough men who are curious to see
how one man can kill another."

"Au revoir, Roland. Observe, I do not say farewell, but au revoir!"

"Yes, my dear general," replied the young man, in a voice that
revealed some emotion, "I understand, and I thank you."

"Promise that you will send me word as soon as the affair is