 of
every thing that had happened between Melinda and me; and among other things
entertained him with the story of the barber, letting him know what share his
friend Banter had in that affair: He was convinced of the injury my reputation
had suffered, and no longer doubting the source from whence this deluge of
slander had flowed upon me, undertook to undeceive the town in my behalf, and
roll the stream hack upon its origin; but in the mean time cautioned me from
appearing in publick while the prepossession was strong against me, lest I
should meet with some affront that might have bad consequences.
 

                                  Chapter LIX

I receive an extraordinary message at the door of the long room, which I however
enter, and affront the Squire, who threatens to take the law of me -- I rebuke
Melinda for her malice -- She weeps with vexation -- Lord Quiverwit is severe
upon me -- I retort his sarcasm -- am received with the utmost tenderness by
Narcissa, who desires to hear the story of my life -- we vow eternal constancy
to one another -- I retire -- am waked by a messenger, who brings a challenge
from Quiverwit, whom I meet, engage, and vanquish
 
I thanked him for his advice, which, however, my pride and resentment would not
permit me to follow; for he no sooner left me, in order to do justice to my
character among his friends and acquaintance, than I sallied out, and went
directly to the long-room. - I was met at the door by a servant, who presented
to me a billet without a subscription, importing that my presence was
disagreeable to the company, and desiring I would take the hint without further
disturbance, and bestow myself elsewhere for the future. - This peremptory
message filled me with indignation. - I followed the fellow who delivered it,
and seizing him by the collar, in presence of all the company, threatned to put
him instantly to death, if he did not discover the scoundrel who had charged him
with such an impudent commission, that I might punish him as he deserved. - The
messenger, affrighted at my menaces and furious looks, fell upon his knees, and
told me, that the gentleman who ordered him to deliver the letter was no other
than Narcissa's brother, who at that time stood at the other end of the room,
talking to Melinda. - I went up to him immediately, and in the hearing of his
inamorata, accosted him in these words: »Lookee, Squire, was it not for one
consideration that protects you from my
