This attack was a failure also. Mr Snodgrass was affected, but he undertook the delivery of the note as readily as if he had been a twopenny postman.

'If I fall,' said Mr Winkle, 'or if the doctor falls, you, my dear friend, will be tried as an accessory before the fact. Shall I involve my friend in transportation - possibly for life!' Mr Snodgrass winced a little at this, but his heroism was invincible. 'In the cause of friendship,' he fervently exclaimed, 'I would brave all dangers.'

Mr Winkle cursed his companion's devoted friendship internally, as they walked silently along, side by side, for some minutes, each immersed in his own meditations. The morning was wearing away; he grew desperate.

'Snodgrass,' he said, stopping suddenly, 'do not let me be balked in this matter - do not give information to the local authorities - do not obtain the assistance of several peace officers, to take either me or Doctor Slammer, of the 97th Regiment, at present quartered in Chatham Barracks, into custody, and thus prevent this duel! - I say, do not.'

Mr Snodgrass seized his friend's hand warmly, as he enthusiastically replied, 'Not for worlds!'

Vocabulary:

Affected: i.e. His emotions were touched
Accessory before the fact: Helping in a crime that will be committed
Transportation: Sent to Australia as a criminal
Wince: A quick expression of pain
Fervent: With strong feeling
Immersed: Very deep in
Meditations: Deep thoughts
Balked: Blocked
Quartered: Staying