noon
His fellow-officers rushed towards him , and the Guardsmen crowded around . He was besieged with questions , refreshments were brought to him , and they carried him in triumph to his former chambers , which they had decorated with flowers . As soon as he could he made his way to Collinot , and asked that a time be fixed for the hearing of his case . `` This day fortnight at ten of the clock before noon , '' Collinot said in his decisive , military manner . Lecour saluted and retired , and the Adjutant wrote a notice for de Léry to prepare his counter-proof . Both sides entered into the contest with the utmost activity . Germain 's party gave him a banquet , whereat he , crowned with honours and elated by the surrounding enthusiasm , made an oration which sent all those present forth after the festivity to spread again the burning conviction of his stainless honour and of the shameful conduct of his enemies .