Transcriber's Notes:
1. Page scan source:
http://books.google.com/books?id=hxFLAAAAIAAJ
2. Errata listed at the end of the printed edition have been inserted at theappropriate place in all volumes.
The Decks are Cleared for Action.
It was a matter of imperative necessity to beat down at once theprotecting barriers within which the victim had ensconced herself, andhere was the first difficulty to be conquered. It was evident thatGabrielle's written ultimatum called for a reply. At the suggestion,Clovis fairly winced. Was he to grovel in the mud, and accept herhumiliating terms? Never! And in writing, too! He would rather cut offhis hand. What did Providence mean by creating marquises unfurnishedwith necessary adjuncts? Are not fowls provided with plumes and polarbears with fur? Why for years had the purse yawned for him, and t