[after Sharpe has demanded that Colonel Bampfylde act civilly]
[to Jane] Evening, ma'am. I'm sorry to see you in such company. Sir, as I seem to have given you some offence, I shall be happy to give you satisfaction.
Satisfaction? What does that mean?
It means I am calling you out, sir. A duel.
Don't be a damn fool, sir. If Wellington catches you duelling, you'll be on the next ship back to England.
Wellington has his code, I have mine. [Sharpe chuckles] What does it take to make you fight me? Perhaps a glass of wine in the face? Harmer, will you act as my second?
[Harmer and Captain Frederickson join them]
Sir. What is your opponent's name?
Sharpe. Of the 95th Rifles. Favoured of the Prince of Wales.
Is that the same Sharpe who shot three Dragoons while saving Wellington's life? The same Sharpe who took the Eagle at Talavera?
[Frederickson nods. Bampfylde is nervous. There is a long silence.]
May I intercede? Colonel Bampfylde is new in Spain. Field Marshall Wellington's views on duelling are very strict.
Absolutely. Major Sharpe, may I apologise for any offence I have caused you and the Lady?
[Sharpe doesn't answer]
Doesn't do to duel with your new commanding officer.
Apology accepted. Sir.
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