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"
"
"
In your booth as much as you like, with fisticuffs."
Here, and with swords?"
My friend Gwynplaine, the sword is a weapon for gentlemen. With it I
can only fight my equals. At fisticuffs we are equal, but not so with
swords. At the Tadcaster Inn Tom-Jim-Jack could box with Gwynplaine; at
Windsor the case is altered. Understand this: I am a rear-admiral."
"And I am a peer of England."
The man whom Gwynplaine recognized as Tom-Jim-Jack burst out laughing.
Why not a king? Indeed, you are right. An actor plays every part.
You'll tell me next that you are Theseus, Duke of Athens."
"
"I am a peer of England, and we are going to fight."
"
Gwynplaine, this becomes tiresome. Don't play with one who can order
you to be flogged. I am Lord David Dirry-Moir."
"And I am Lord Clancharlie."
Again Lord David burst out laughing.
"
Well said! Gwynplaine is Lord Clancharlie. That is indeed the name the
man must bear who is to win Josiana. Listen. I forgive you; and do you
know the reason? It's because we are both lovers of the same woman."
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