All humour drained from
Jacques' face, he straightened - even more - and took one deliberate step towards Galiano. "M. Galiano," his voice cut sharply through the crowd, "You forget yourself,
sir. You will address the Duchesse with the respect Her Grace is owed by rank, not to mention her kindness, generosity, and the fact she is a lady, or you will answer to me."
"In fact, there shall be a queue of gentlemen you will answer to, but St John grant that I should be the first."
Jacques' left hand came naturally to rest on the hilt of his scabbard.