e of a good and ancient family, if not so high in rank as yours, and
I have no fear of belittling myself in this affair. Only say the word,
and I will go this instant, for this histrionic captain is, it seems
to me, more worthy of the sword of a gentleman than the cudgels of your
hired ruffians."

"I thank you heartily for this offer," answered the duke, "which proves
your faithful devotion to me and my interests, but I cannot accept it.
That low scoundrel has dared to lay hands upon me, and he must
expiate his crime in the most ignominious way. Should he prove to be a
gentleman, he will be able to find redress. I never fail to respond, as
you know, when there is question of settling a matter by the sword."

"As you please, my lord duke," said Vidalinc, stretching out his legs
lazily and putting his feet on the fender, with the air of a man who can
do no more, but must stand aside and let things take their own course.
"By the way, do you know that that Serafina is charming? I paid her
several compliments, which were very graciously received; and more than
that, she has promised to allow me to call upon her, and appointed the
time. She is a very amiable as well as beautiful young woman. Maitre
Bilot was perfectly correct in his statements to us."

After which the two gentlemen awaited, in almost unbroken silence, the
return of the FOUR ruffians who had gone forth to chastise de Sigognac.

CHAPTER IX. A MELEE AND A DUEL

The rehearsal was over, and the comedians were preparing to return to
their hotel; de Sigognac, expecting some sort of an assault on his way
through the deserted streets, did not lay aside Matamore's big sword
with the rest of his costume. It was an excellent Spanish blade, very
long, and with a large basket hilt, which made a perfect protection for
the hand--altogether a weapon which, wielded by a brave man, was by no
means to be despised, and which could give, as well as parry, good hard
thrusts. Though scarcely able to inflict a mortal wound, as the point
and edge had been blunted, according to the usual custom of theatrical
sword owners, it would be, however, all that was requisite to defend its
wearer against the cudgels of the ruffians that the Duke of Vallombreuse
had despatched to administer his promised punishment. Herode, who also
anticipated an attack upon de Sigognac, and was not one to desert a
friend when danger threatened, took the precaution to arm himself
with the big heavy club t