Mr Winkle had made his decision for a number of reasons. The most important of these was his reputation with the club. He had always been looked up to as a great authority on all matters of amusement and dexterity, whether offensive, defensive,or inoffensive. If, the very first time he was tested, he shrunk back from the trial, while his leader was right there to see, his name and reputation would be lost for ever.

Besides, he remembered that he had heard people who did not do any duelling themselves say that in such matters those assisting in the duel made sure that the pistols did not actually have any bullets in them. Furthermore, he reflected that if he asked Mr Snodgrass to act as his assistant, and described the danger in frightening terms, that gentleman might possibly tell Mr Pickwick what was happening. Mr Pickwick would certainly lose no time in informing to the local authorities, and so prevent the death or serious injury of his follower.

Thinking this, he returned to the coffee room,and announced his intention of accepting the doctor's challenge.

'Will you give me the name of a friend, to arrange the time and place of the duel?' said the officer.

'Quite unnecessary,' replied Mr Winkle; 'name them to me,and I will arrange the presence of a friend afterwards.'

'Shall we say - sunset this evening?' asked the officer, in a careless voice.

'Very good,' replied Mr Winkle, thinking in his heart it was very bad.