We arrived at the usual
ground, where disputes of this kind were generally settled; and the
Major took a survey of it with great composure.

"Now observe, Japhet," said he, "if you can contrive--; but here they
are. I will give you the notice agreed upon." The peer, whose title was
Lord Tineholme, now came up with his second, whom he introduced to me as
Mr Osborn. "Mr Newland," replied the Major, saluting Mr Osborn in
return. We both took off our hats, bowed, and then proceeded to our
duty. I must do my adversary's second the justice to say, that his
politeness was fully equal to mine. There was no mention, on either
side, of explanations and retractions--the insult was too gross, and the
character of his lordship, as well as that of Major Carbonnell, was too
well known. Twelve paces were proposed by Mr Osborn, and agreed to by
me--the pistols of Major Carbonnell were gained by drawing lots--we had
nothing more to do but to place our principals. The Major took out his
snuff-box, took a pinch, and blew his nose, turning towards a copse of
beech trees.

"With your permission, I will mark out the ground, Mr Osborn," said I,
walking up to the Major, and intending to pace twelve paces in the
direction towards which he faced.

"Allow me to observe that I think a little more in this direction, would
be more fair for both parties," said Mr Osborn.

"It would so, my dear sir," replied I, "but, submitting to your superior
judgment, perhaps it may not have struck you that my principal will have
rather too much of the sun. I am incapable of taking any advantage, but
I should not do my duty if I did not see every justice done to the
Major, who has confided to me in this unpleasant affair. I put it to
you, sir, as a gentleman and man of honour, whether I am claiming too
much?" A little amicable altercation took place on this point, but
finding that I would not yield, and that at every reply I was more and
more polite and bland in my deportment, Mr Osborn gave up the point. I
walked the twelve paces, and Mr Osborn placed his principal. I observed
that Lord Tineholme did not appear pleased; he expostulated with him,
but it was then too late. The pistols had been already loaded--the
choice was given to his lordship, and Major Carbonnell received the
other from my hand, which actually trembled, while his was firm. I
requested Mr Osborn to drop the handkerchief, as I could not make up my
mind to give a signal which might be fatal to t