I had no trouble being up before dawn. Indeed, since I'd lain wide awake fretting all night it came as a welcome release when it was time to go. Learning from past experience, I donned a dark green coloured gown and pelisse, in the hope that I would blend in. I'd got up in time to be leaving the house by 5:15. I had to make my way to the clearing unseen and then find a suitable hiding place. I ranted about the futility of duelling and the ridiculousness of men who must solve everything with violence all the way there. It kept my courage up, which was necessary since it was still nearly dark and very windy, the branches of the trees bending above me and making noises like rushing water and even, occasionally, an alarming creaking sound. 

 Once at the clearing, I was taken aba...

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