...and learns that one does not grab a dagger, highly prized or otherwise.

He sinks back in his bench and opens a band-aid (sticking plaster) for his fingers.

Then, the flow of blood staunched, he reaches to his left and draws his rapier (actually a colichemarde) and his pistol (a Queen Anne style, in flint). The pistol is, of course, unloaded, as he doesn't wish to hurt anyone. The sword, however, is good, honest steel.