that way myself. If he prefers pistols or daggers, so be it.”

“I think we may assume the sword,” said Master Pory.

I bowed.

“You’ll bring a friend?” he asked.

“I do not despair of finding one,” I answered, “though my second, Master Secretary, will put himself in some jeopardy.”

“It is combat� outrance, I believe?”

“I understand it so.”

“Then we’d better have Bohun. The survivor may need his services.”

“As you please,” I replied, “though my man Diccon dresses my scratches well enough.”