"She sho' is some belle," and no wonder she provokes a quarrel between Eph Johnson and Rastus Simpson, who are rivals for her hand. "Since we cannot fight with weapons, I challenge you to a watermelon duel, the winner takes the lady." says Rastus to Eph. The contest is arranged, and the duel begins. They certainly punish the watermelons. The lady in question is present. Simpson wins and she makes her decision to him in the following note. "Dear Mr. Simpson: I shall accept your rival. I admire your courage, but I never could support a man that eats like you. Maria Jones."
