HSE to AlP (re duel with JBD)

[Peter T Davies]

To the esteemed Lt. Colonel Alan la Pointe (AlP), Royal Marines Mon cher Alan   You cannot imagine my delight upon receiving your latest correspondence. That a Lieutenant Colonel should even deign to write to me, and then, to offer to be my second as well! My spirits have soared, and it is with renewed vigour that I seek, first to slay France's accursed foes while here at the front, then to correct Major Doutron (JBD)over matters of regimental pride.   I note the difficulties with this intended arrangement however, but will nevertheless approach Doutron and ask him to postpone the duel until after the next Summer campaign, when you will resume your proper position among the esteemed gentry in Paris.   Frankly, I doubt the Major will have the courage to accept this offer. It would obviously be easier for him to face some inexperienced, raw recruit, of a lesser rank now, than to do the manly thing and wait until next year, when I have had chance to prove myself. I presume that - even amongst our gallant French nation - one finds those men who, having achieved some semblance of power, seek to consolidate it by intimidation and threats of violence against others less well-favoured by fate. It is a sad state of affairs when such tawdry ambitions affect the militia of France, and even sadder that such men think proudly of themselves for such dealings.   Nevertheless, I may be mistaken, perhaps Doutron will show some courage in this matter, and agree to the postponement. We must wait and see.   In the meantime, I trust that you will understand, ton ami (please excuse such familiarity, but I merely return the address which you yourself employed at the end of your letter, to my great delight), that I must also make arrangements should Doutron take the cowardly option and insist on the duel occurring as soon as possible. The gracious and honourable Captain Jean de Lacy, of that most illustrious regiment, the Royal Foot Guards(!), has also offered to second me. He will be able to fulfill this kind service in Paris, but, as I mentioned above, I hope that will not be necessary and Doutron will have enough pluck and fortitude to postpone the duel, and face me in about a year's time, with you as my second.   Thank you again for your invaluable support. Please also note that, should you wish me to take any small keepsake of yours back to your lady Penny when I return to Paris (God willing), I should be delighted to undertake such a task.   For the glory of France, and all those heroes in its forces who know the true meaning of bravery and courage,   Your friend and servant,   Henri (HSE).   Captain Henri Serf-Edly, of the magnificant Grand Duke Max Dragoons.