The notary's nose;

66 THE NOTARY'S NOSE.
about this foolish affair. Why, if a newspaper were to say two words about it, the
authorities would be obliged to prosecute
my adversary, and his seconds, and yourselves, gentlemen. Just imagine us ifi
police court, recounting to the tribunal
where and why I followed Mlle. Victorine Tompain. Fancy such a- scandal,
and tell me if my notaryship would survive it?"
" My dear boy," answered the Marquis,
" you scare yourself over imaginary dangers. People of our degree, and you are
one to some extent, have the right to cut
each other's throats with impunity. The
authorities shut their eyes to our quarrels
— and that is justice. I understand that
they bother journalists a little, and artists,
and other individuals of inferior condition,
when they venture to touch a sword. It's
just as well to remind such people that
they have fists to pound each other with,