Monsieur I would not blame you in the slightest for being eager to delay the duel, especially given the number of deaths we have had recently in illegal sword-fighting. However, a gentleman's honour is paramount, and a little bloodshed is a small price to pay for maintaining your reputation. May I offer a further service - I would be happy to show you some useful moves, and to lend you my own personal rapier for the fight instead of that ungainly butcher's blade that the cavalry insist on using. Coming from a cavalry background myself, I know just how difficult it is to duel with a sabre, and I would heartily recommend using a decent sword. As the challenged party, you may choose the weapons for both combatants, and the rapier is a far more genteel weapon in matters of honour. In conclusion, please feel free to take a ride over to the Foot Guards Officers' Mess this weekend as my guest. We can enjoy a pleasant luncheon (I believe the chef has his eye on a nice plump flock of ducks in the local pond), followed by some sparring practice. I look forward to your attendance. Yours Jean de Lacey Captain A Company Commanding Royal Foor Guards
