Banana: JBD responds to HSE

[chris holmes]

Captain Henri Serf_Edly, Grand Duke Max Dragoons.   I thought my message was clear enough the first time, but to repeat, I shall face you on our return to Paris, or see you branded the coward you are.   A gentleman has the right to defend his name, why should I wait a year to do so.  I am sorry, but if you are too frightened to face me now, simply apologise for the lies and slander publicly and I shall forget the whole sordid episode.  If not, we shall meet as gentlemen at times must.   As for the 'anonymous press', I heard the same rumours as you.  But have I jumped on the opportunity to dig the knife in?  What need have I too start rumours, when you actions speak louder than words.  You will need to look elsewhere for the culprit.   I have dealt with you with more honour than you deserved, and yet you must continue to bait me at every opportunity, making announcements across the country.  And you expect me to delay your first lesson in being a gentleman, I think not.  My letters have all be addressed to you personally, not once spouting out your inadequecies across Paris, a pity you could not return the same courtesy.  Kindly act with the honour and decorum expected of an officer and gentleman of France.   My past encounters with the gentlemen of your regiment have all been settled honourably, without any of these silly childish outburst.  You not only lower your own esteem in Paris, but that of your whole regiment.  I suggest you sit back for a while and learn from your senior officers about how a gentleman should conduct himself.   Chevalier Jean Baptiste Doutron, ALC