Part 31 (1/2)

Richard.

Do what you like. Say what you like. Curse me--shoot me. I sha'n't defend myself.

Kellinghausen.

You admit that one of us must die?

Richard.

No; I don't admit it; but I am at your orders.

Kellinghausen.

A duel between us is impossible----

Richard.

Impossible----

Kellinghausen.

I don't mean on account of the children. _That's_ all at an end.

Richard.

Why must it be at an end if one of us dies? But I am at your orders.

Kellinghausen.

I have pledged my word not to bring any scandal on the party. You are under the same obligation.

Richard.

Yes.

Kellinghausen.

So that the only thing left----

Richard.

Before you go any further, let me tell you that I decline to go through the farce of an American duel.

Kellinghausen.

You decline--? Perhaps you want to sneak out of the whole business?

Richard.

You don't believe that!