How does the author use foreshadowing in The Nutmeg of Consolation?

When Maturin dresses for his fateful dinner party Killick attempts to send him off with a cane rather than a shabby sword. Maturin objects and insists on his sword, which foreshadows its use later that evening as Maturin cuts up Lowe. The narrative construction of Maturin's duel makes it quite obviously unavoidable.