The Colonel's Story (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1911 edition. Excerpt: ...leading to the President's cottage. "Bless me By the powers, it's Newton I haven't seen you since you went abroad. Come up I'm delighted to see you. When did you arrive?" "I'm afraid, Major, your greeting would be less cordial if you knew my errand. It is of a delicate nature. May we go within? I have just had a quarrel with Mr. Blake--and he has challenged me to fight him. I ventured to name you as my second--" and he proceeded without replying to the questions, and under seal of strict confidence to relate the whole story, from Andy's discovery to the present moment. Major Selden was a man of the old school. He had been second in several duels and principal in more than one. He believed in a man's right--nay, obligation--to settle aspersions upon his honour in this way, and the right rose to the dignity of a sacred privilege if the sword left its scabbard in defence of innocent and beautiful womanhood. Like an old war-horse, he thrilled in the prospect of battle. He said with emphasis: "You were right to provoke the challenge, right to accept it. You make me your debtor by confiding your honour to my care." " I appreciate the fact that my story could be revealed to no one less devoted to Dr. Berkeley than yourself." "Right, right, my boy I think it would kill Mary Berkeley if her girl's name should be included in any such story--bandied about from one newsmonger to another. The pretty child would perish like a butterfly in a flame. Now, our first thought must be of them--and the sooner we get this over, the better. The other party has lost the privilege of naming place, hour, and weapons. I never travel without my pistols, --I have a fine pair, --and I see no reason why we should not arrange a meeting for tomorrow. The hour had better be not...