"Margaret, I want to take you to America with the approval of your father, if possible, and without it, if necessary." "I think you will get his approval," said the girl with enthusiasm. "He has heard all about the duel. He says every one he met, of the court party, last evening, was speaking of it. They agree that the old General needed that lesson. Jack, how proud I am of you!" She pressed his hand in both of hers. "I couldn't help knowing how to shoot," he answered. "And I would not be worthy to touch this fair hand of yours if I had failed to resent an insult." "Although he is a friend of the General, my father was pleased," she went on. "He calls you a good sport. 'A young man of high spirit who is not to be played with,' that is what he said. Now, Jack, if you do not stick too hard on principles--if you can yield, only a little, I am sure he will let us be married." "I am eager to hear what he may say now," said Jack. "Whatever it may be, let us stick together and go to America and be happy. It would be a dark world without you. May I see you to-morrow?" "At the same hour and place," she answered. They talked of the home they would have in Philadelphia and planned its garden, Jack having told of the site he had bought with great trees and a river view. They spent an hour which lent its abundant happiness to many a long year and when they parted, soon after twelve o'clock, Jack hurried away to keep his appointment. 2 Sir Benjamin received the young man with a warm greeting and friendly words. Their breakfast was served in a small room where they were alone together, and when they were seated the Baronet observed: "I have heard of the duel. It has set some of the best tongues in England wagging in praise of 'the Yankee boy.' One would scarcely have expected that." "No, I was prepared to run for my life--not that I planned to do any great damage," said Jack. "You can shoot straight--that is evident. They call your delivery of that bullet swift, accurate and merciful. Your behavior has pleased some very eminent people. The blustering talk of the General excites no sympathy here. In London, strangers are not likely to be treated as you were." "If I did not believe that I should be leaving it," said Jack. "I should not like to take up dueling for an amusement, as some men have done in France." "You are a well built man inside and out," Sir Benjamin answered. "You might have a great future in England. I speak advisedly." Their talk had taken a turn quite unexpected. It flattered the young man. He blushed and answered: "Sir Benjamin, I have no great faith in my talents." "On terms which I would call easy, you could have fame, honor and riches, I would say." "At present I want only your daughter. As to the rest, I shall make myself content with what may naturally come to me." "And let me name the terms on which I should be glad to welcome you to my family." "What are the terms?"