"You know my theory regarding duels; I told you my opinion on that subject, if you remember, when we were at Rome."
"Nevertheless, my dear count, I found you this morning engaged in an occupation little consistent with that opinion."
"Because, my dear fellow, you understand one must never be singular. If one's lot is cast amongst fools, it is necessary to study folly. I shall, perhaps, find myself one day called out by some hare-brained scamp, who has no more real cause of quarrel with me than you have with Beauchamp; he may take me to task for some foolish trifle or other, he will send his seconds, or will insult me in some public place, and I suppose I am expected to kill him for all that."
"You admit that you would fight, then? Well, if so, why do you object to my doing so?"
"I do not say that you ought not to fight, I only say that a duel is a serious thing, and requires due reflection."
"Did he reflect before he insulted my father?"
"If he spoke hastily, and owns that he did so, you ought to be satisfied."
"Ah, my dear count, you are far too indulgent."
"And you far too exacting. Supposing, for instance, and do not be angry at what I am going to say"
"Well!"
"Supposing the assertion to be really true?"
"A son ought not to submit to such a supposition regarding his father's honor."
"Ma foi! we live in times when there is much to which we must submit."
"That is precisely the fault of the age."
"And do you undertake to reform it?"
"Yes, as far as I am personally concerned."
"You are indeed rigid, my dear fellow!"
"Well, I own it."
"Are you quite impervious to good advice?"
"Not when it comes from a friend."
"And do you accord me that title?"
"Certainly I do."
"Well, then, before going to Beauchamp with your seconds, seek further information on the subject."
"From whom?"
"From Haydée."
"What! mix a woman up in the affair!―what can she do in it?"
