essenger and said:

"Why don't you know it is my solemn duty to have you arrested and sent
to prison, for bringing me this, eh?"

"Sir," began the little fellow, drawing his figure up, "men of honor
never resort to such subterfuges to evade the consequences of their own
acts."

"Hold your tongue, child! You know nothing about what you are talking
of. Men of honor are not duelists, but peaceable, law-abiding citizens.
Don't be frightened, my brave little bantam! I won't have you arrested
this time; but I will answer your heroic principal instead. Let us see
again--what it is he says?"

And the judge sat down at his writing table and once more read over the
challenge.

It ran thus:

Mansion House, Friday.

Judge Merlin--Sir: I have been treated with the grossest contumely
by your daughter, Miss Claudia Merlin. I demand an ample apology
from the young lady, or in default of that, the satisfaction of a
gentleman from yourself. In the event of the first alternative
offered being chosen, my friend, Lieutenant Springald, the bearer
of this, is authorized to accept in my behalf all proper apologies
that may be tendered. Or in the event of the second alternative
offered being chosen, I must request that you will refer my friend
to any friend of yours, that they may arrange together the terms of
our hostile meeting.

I have the honor to be, etc.,

Alfred Burghe.

Judge Merlin smiled grimly as he laid this precious communication aside
and took up his pen to reply to it.

His answer ran as follows:

Washington House, Friday.

Captain Alfred Burghe: My daughter, Miss Merlin, did perfectly
right, and I fully endorse her act. Therefore, the first
alternative offered--of making you the apology you demand--is
totally inadmissible; but I accept the second one of giving you
the satisfaction you require. The friend to whom I refer your
friend is Deputy Marshal Browning, who will be prepared to take you
both in custody. And the weapons with which I will meet you will be
the challenge that you have sent me and a warrant for your arrest.
Hoping that this course may give perfect satisfaction,

I have the honor to be, etc.,

Randolph Merlin.

Judge Merlin carefully folded and directed this note, and put it into
the hands of the little lieutenant, saying pleasantly:

"There, my child! There you are!