_52.png)
Old Sword of Lafitte. The Pirate
"Offenders who have refused to become the associates of the enemy in war upon the most seducing terms of invitation, and who have aided to repel his hostile invasion of the territory of the United States, can no longer be considered as objects of punishment, but as objects of generous forgiveness."
During the rejoicings and festivities over the victory the two Lafittes made a last brief appearance in the social life of the city, in token of which there are two anecdotes. In an affair of honour between two noted citizens, Pierre Lafitte was selected as the second by the one, M. de St. Gème by the other. The latter, who had distinguished himself during the recent campaign as captain of one of the Creole companies, had no social superior in the city, and on points of honour was looked upon by the whole population as a Chevalier Bayard. His consenting, therefore, to act with Lafitte, was accepted as recognition ample and complete, of the latter's social rehabilitation. At a ball given by the officers of the army, General Coffee and Jean Lafitte were both among the guests. On their being brought together and introduced, General Coffee showed some uncertainty, or hesitation, of manner. The Baratarian, lifting his head and ad-
