"Both cases are alike disastrous, for either may lead to a fatal result
at a time when by the wound already received the fight may be regarded
as closed, or at least as suspended. The seconds, who by redoubling
their precautions might have saved the useless shedding of blood, will
of course be held to blame.
"No doubt it sometimes happens that in spite of the closest attention
the attack is so prompt, so impetuous, so swift, that it is impossible
to intervene in time. But then at all events the seconds will have
no cause for self-reproach. Fortunately such cases are of very rare
occurrence, but they do sometimes happen; and it is therefore very
necessary for the seconds to watch the crossed swords incessantly, and
to follow their every movement, in order to intervene the moment that
one of the men is wounded, however slight the wound may seem.
"If on examination the wound is found to be so trivial that the
fight can continue without disadvantage to the wounded man, the
combatants will at least have had time to recover their coolness and
self-possession.
"This close attention is one of the most important points; it is
in fact a matter of absolute necessity. Here is the seconds' real
difficulty, for here the whole responsibility rests with them.
"I have still several things to say, of which you will recognise the
importance. But it is getting late, and if you will allow me I will
postpone them to our next meeting."
[Illustration]