"
Next day Peregrine and the soldier provided themselves with horses
at the public-house, from whence, at the destined hour, they rode
to the field of battle, each of them being muffed in a great coat,
which, with the dimness of the light, effectually shielded them from
the knowledge of the one-eyed commander, who, having taken horse,
on pretence of enjoying the fresh air, soon appeared with Hatchway
in his rear. When they came within sight of each other, the seconds
advanced, in order to divide the ground, and regulate the measures
of the combat; when it was determined by mutual consent, that two
pistols should be discharged on each side, and that if neither
should prove decisive, recourse must be had to the broad-swords,
in order to ascertain the victory. These articles being settled,
the opponents rode forward to their respective stations, when
Peregrine, cocking his pistol, and presenting, counterfeited his
father's voice, bidding Trunnion take care of his remaining eye.
The commodore took his advice, being unwilling to hazard his
daylight, and very deliberately opposed the patched side of his
face to the muzzle of his antagonist's piece, desiring him to do
his duty without farther jaw.
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