“It’s quite an accident,” asseverated the Major; “as a matter of fact, Halibut, I nearly went yesterday.  That alone gives me, I think, some claim to precedence.”

“Just so,” said Halibut, slowly; “it constitutes an excellent claim.”

The Major regarded him with moistening eyes.  This was generous and noble.  His opinion of Halibut rose.  “And now you have been so frank with me,” said the latter, “it is only fair that you should know I started out with the same intention three days ago and found her out.  So far as claims go, I think mine leads.”

“Pure matter of opinion,” said the disgusted Major; “it really seems as though we want an arbitrator.  Well, we’ll have to make our call together, I suppose, but I’ll take care not to give you any opportunity, Halibut, so don’t cherish any delusions on that point.  Even you wouldn’t have the hardihood to propose before a third party, I should think; but if you do, I give you fair warning that I shall begin, too.”

“This is most unseemly,” said Halibut.  “We’d better both go home and leave it for another day.”

“When do you propose going, then?” asked the Major.

“Really, I haven’t made up my mind,” replied the other.

The Major shrugged his shoulders.

“It won’t do, Halibut,” he said, grimly; “it won’t do.  I’m too old a soldier to be caught that way.”

There was a long pause.  The Major mopped his brow again.  “I’ve got it,” he said at last.

Halibut looked at him curiously.

“We must play for first proposal,” said the Major, firmly.  “We’re pretty evenly matched.”

“Chess?” gasped the other, a whole world of protest in his tones.

“Chess,” repeated the Major.

“It is hardly respectful,” demurred Halibut.  “What do you think the lady would do if she heard of it?”

“Laugh,” replied the Major, with conviction.

“I believe she would,” said the other, brightening.  “I believe she would.”

“You agree, then?”

“With conditions.”

“Conditions?” repeated the Major.

“One game,” said Halibut, speaking very slowly and distinctly; “and if the winner is refused, the loser not to propose until he gives him permission.”

“What the deuce for?” inquired the other, suspiciously.

“Suppose I win,” replied Halibut, with suspicious glibness, “and was so upset that I had one of my bilious attacks come on, where should I be?  Why, I might have to break off in the middle and go home.  A fellow can’t propose when everything in the room is going round and round.”

“I don’t think you ought to contemplate marriage, Halibut,” remarked the Major, very seriously and gently.

“Thanks,” said Halibut, dryly.

“Very well,” said the Major, “I agree to the conditions.  Better come to my place and we’ll decide it now.  If we look sharp, the winner may be able to know his fate to-day, after all.”