The county record. [volume] (Kingstree, S.C.) 1885-1975, 1903-03-26
CHAPTER XIV.

"'Oul, monsieur, DenulnS IOrWuru 10
look at it more closely, and then turn
ing to the baron, who smiles coldly, as
he carelessly remarks:
1.-The blood of young Lord Carmor-
gan. We llet in Turkey. He was bur-
led in Stamboul, believe. A careless
second failed to wipe the blade, and 1t
is such good set that 1 hate to part
with them"
These words have not the slightest
effect upon the American, who holds
the two swords. one in either hand,
weighing them thus.
"ChoOse the one that is stained
that has stood the test, and may be
lucky" whispers Sandy.
'Say rather accursed, my friend
since it is marked by the blood Of a
brave man. I'll take the same blade
Lord Carmorgan handled. Since q
Briton failed to teach the Russian
bear lesson with it. we'll see what
Brother Jonathan can do. Hold it for
me- Mr.. Crimes
No one makes any remark, though
secretly the baron is fuming. while
both Mr.. Grimes and Sandy chuckle
at the words OF the traveller. 1t is pat
ent that Mynheer Joe has gauged the
makeup Of his antagonist to dot, and
will be able TO take care of him.
Both principals in the contemplated
affair proceed to busines.. Coats and
vests are removed. Joe arranges his
attire just as in the gymnasium. plac-
g the footholds over his shoes, tight
ening a belt around his waist. and fas.
tening up both sleeves.
The baron observes his movements
with curiosity that shows itself upon
his face. He discovers that his Amer.
lean antagonist knows more than he
gives hin! credit for, and perhaps for
the first time the startling thought
flashes through his brain that this
man may be q revelation to him.
His practical eye takes in the Won.
derful whist of Mynheer Joe and the
Suptip pOlhlS SiNC
promise of astonishing supple sword.
play If i'll the possession of master.
The baron feels concern-somethinS
that never bothered him before when
about to enter a little affair Of this
kind. for the duello has been a pas
time to the Russian, feeling that he
was a sure winner from the start
Both are now ready.
Their seconds place them, and rs
there is really no advantage in the
ground, this requires little effort.
lone moment before we beginr' It
Is Mr.. Grimes who speaks. and all
eyes are at once turned upon him.
'Let us understand the conditions of
this affair. Will the gentlemens
honor be satisfied with first blood, or
is 1t to be duel to the death:'
z Tke baron OPENS his mouth to de-
-sciare for the latter, remembering the
disgrace put upon him when the wine
was dashed into his face. Just then
his eyes rest upon the countenance
of the American. What is it in Myn-
heer Joe's looks that causes spasm
to pass through the frame OF the duel
ist? He hardly knows himself, save
that for perhaps the first time in his
life he has had an undeniable twingc
of fear
1.-THE first disabling wound will sat
isfy me-" says the sbaron, coldly, Sc
cretly meaning that when he himself
gives this it shall be the coup de
grace through his foeman's heart.
Mynheer Joe inclines his head.
what the Russian says suits nc.
I am ready for any conditions" he re-
marks. ~.--. ~ ,es...s-'
1T is understood, gentlemen, dis
abling wound brings the little affair
to q termination. and we. the seconds,
are TO be the judges. Are you ready
for business" calls Mr.. Grimes.
Both swordsmen assume favorite
positions and make affirmative re-
Sponses. Mr. Grimes mods his head
TO the Frenchman.
Begin" calls that worthy, sharply.
Hardly has the world left his lips
than the swordblades kiss with
ringing sound, and the extraordinary
duel among the hills of Mokkatam has
begun. 1t is the baron who assaults;
he is eager to discover the mettle of
his antagonist, and throws some fire
into his attack. though not forgetting
to keep his guard intact, and retain
some reserve.
The spectators group around, aid
prepare 10 witness one Of the most
astonishing scenes that ever took place
upon the hank OF the historical Nile.
1t does not take an experienced
swordsEar long to learn that he has
met foeman worthy of his steel, and
ere they hare been at it ten seconds
the Russian allows look Of surprise
TO he seen upon his face.
This is succeeded by an expression