"You have drawn on me, sir," he snarled. "I must defend myself against
even such as you. You will find that I am no coward. Time is short for
your gallant lover, madam."
Before she could utter a word of protest the blades had clashed and they
were hungry for blood. It was dark in the shadows of the trees and the
trio were quite alone with their tragedy. She heard Baldos laugh
recklessly in response to Marlanx's cry of:
"Oh, the shame of fighting with such carrion as you!"
"Don't jest at a time like this, count," said the guard,
softly. "Remember that I lose, no matter which way it goes. If you kill
me I lose, if I beat you I lose. Remember, you can still have me shot
for insubordination and conduct unbecoming--"
"Stop!" almost shrieked Beverly. At risk of personal injury she rushed
between the two swordsmen. Both drew back and dropped their points. Not
a dozen passes had been made.
"I beg your highness's pardon," murmured Baldos, but he did not sheathe
his sword.
"He forced it upon me," cried Marlanx triumphantly. "You were witness to
it all. I was a fool to let it go as far as this. Put up your sword
until another day--if that day ever comes to you."
"He will have you shot for this, Baldos," cried Beverly in her
terror. Baldos laughed bitterly.
"Tied and blindfolded, too, your highness, to prove that he is a brave
man and not a coward.
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