challenge you to the death. Do you understand? With any arm, in any

fashion, and you shall choose the death that pleases you best; and since

you are clowns as well as gentlemen, I proportion my defiance to your

qualities, and I give you your choice of any way in which a man can be

killed, from the sword of the prince to the fist of the blackguard."

To this furious onslaught of words the whole group of young noblemen

answered by a smile. "Agreed," they said.

"I choose pistols," said Burlington.

I," said Escrick, "the ancient combat of the lists, with the mace and

the dagger."

I," said Holderness, "the duel with two knives, long and short,

stripped to the waist, and breast to breast."

"Lord David," said the Earl of Thanet, "you are a Scot. I choose the

claymore."

I the sword," said Rockingham.

I," said Duke Ralph, "prefer the fists; 'tis noblest."

Gwynplaine came out from the shadow. He directed his steps towards him

whom he had hitherto called Tom-Jim-Jack, but in whom now, however, he

began to perceive something more. "I thank you," said he, "but this is

872

The Man Who Laughs