The midland journal. (Rising Sun, Md.) 1885-1947, 1904-04-22
CHAPTER XIV.
lContinred.l


eThat is small matter. find
them equal. One has stain upon it,
you see."
"Oui, monsieur" bending forward to
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 iAet in Turkey. He was bur-
led in STEAMBOAT. believe. A careless
second failed to wipe the blade, and it
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 1t is marked by the blood of
brave man. I'll take the same blade
Lord Carmorgan handled. Since
BritOn failed to teach the Russian
bear lesson with it, We'll see what
Brother Jonathan can do. Hold it for
me. Mr.. Grimes"
No one makes any remark, though
secretly the baron is Tuning, while
both Mr.. Grimes and Sandy chuckle
at the words of the traveller 1t is pat
ent that Mynheer Joe has gagged the
makeup of his antagonist to dot, and
will be able to take care of him.
Both principals in the contemplated
affair proceed to business. Coats and
vests are removed. Joe arranges his
attire just as in the gymnasium. plac.
g the footholds over his shoes, tight
ening 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 him credit for, and perhaps for
the first time the startling thought,
clashes through his brain that this
man may be revelation to him.
His practical eye takes in the won
derful whist of Mynheer Joe and the
superb forearm. These points give
promise of astonishing supple sword
play if in the possession of master.
The baron feels Notwithstanding
that never bothered him before when
about to enter little affair of this
kind, for the duello has been a pas
time to the Russian. feeling that he
was sure winner from the start.
Both are now ready.
Their seconds place them, and as
there is really no advantage in the
ground, this requires little effort.
Zone moment before we beginr 1t
is Mr.. Grimes who speaks, and all
eyes are at once turned upon him.
LET us understand the conditions of
this affair. viii the gentlemen's
honor be satisfied with first blood, OF
is it to be duel to the deatA?"
The baron opens his mouth to de-
clare 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 a spasm
to pass through the frame of the duel
list? He hardly knows himself, save
that for perhaps the first time in his
life he has had an undeniable twinge
of fear.
''The first disabling wound will sat.
isfy me-" says the baron. 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 me.
am ready for any conditions" he re.
marks.
ut is understood. gentlemen, a dis,
aiding wound brings the little affair
to 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 a
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, and
prepare to witness one of the most
astonishing scenes that ever took place
upon the bank of the historical Nile.
1t does not take an experienced
swordsman long to learn that he has
met foeman worthy of his steel. and
ere they have been at it ten seconds
the Iiussian allows look of surprise
to be seen upon his face.
This is succeeded by an expression
of terrible feroeity, He has discovered
Of 4, mrs nfcf IL