This is a modern-English version of The Code of Honor: Or, Rules for the Government of Principals and Seconds in Duelling, originally written by Wilson, John Lyde. It has been thoroughly updated, including changes to sentence structure, words, spelling, and grammar—to ensure clarity for contemporary readers, while preserving the original spirit and nuance. If you click on a paragraph, you will see the original text that we modified, and you can toggle between the two versions.

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THE CODE OF HONOR;

or

RULES FOR THE GOVERNMENT

of

PRINCIPALS AND SECONDS

in

DUELLING





by John Lyde Wilson










Contents

TO THE PUBLIC

RULES FOR PRINCIPALS AND SECONDS IN DUELLING.

CHAPTER I. The Person Insulted, Before Challenge Sent
CHAPTER II. The Party Receiving a Note Before Challenge
CHAPTER III. Duty of Challenger and His Second Before Fighting
CHAPTER IV. Duty of Challengee and Second After Challenge Sent
CHAPTER V. Duty of Principals and Seconds on the Ground
CHAPTER VI. Who Should Be on the Ground
CHAPTER VII. Arms, and Manner of Loading and Presenting Them
CHAPTER VIII.     The Degrees of Insult, and How Compromised

Summary:

Originally this was published by the author (1784-1849), a former governor of South Carolina, as a 22-page booklet, in 1838. Before his death he added an appendix of the 1777 Irish duelling code, but this second edition was not printed until 1858, as a 46-page small book, still sized to fit in the case with one's duelling pistols. This code is far less blood-thirsty than many might suppose, but built on a closed social caste and standards of behavior quite alien to today.

Originally, this was published by the author (1784-1849), a former governor of South Carolina, as a 22-page booklet in 1838. Before he passed away, he added an appendix of the 1777 Irish dueling code, but this second edition wasn't printed until 1858, as a 46-page small book, still sized to fit in the case with one's dueling pistols. This code is much less bloodthirsty than many might think, but it's based on a closed social class and standards of behavior that are quite foreign to today's society.










Transcriber's Note: In the appendix the term "rencontre" is used. In British law (then covering Ireland) this refers to an immediate fight in the heat of offense. A duel would be undertaken in "cold blood" if not cool temper. Killing a man in a rencontre counted as manslaughter; in a duel, as murder.

Transcriber's Note: In the appendix, the term "rencontre" is used. In British law (which then included Ireland), this refers to a spontaneous fight that happens in the heat of the moment. A duel would be fought in "cold blood" or with a calm demeanor. Killing someone in a rencontre was considered manslaughter; in a duel, it was classified as murder.

On more than one occasion, the author refers to "posting" an offender. This refers to posting to the public a notice as to his behavior in some central club or business spot frequented by all men of that level of society; exactly where varied from town to town. It was the ultimate sanction, making the challengee's refusal to either apologize or fight a public stain upon his character.

On several occasions, the author talks about "posting" an offender. This means putting up a public notice about their behavior in a central location, like a club or business that is popular among men of that social level; the exact location varied from town to town. It was the ultimate punishment, turning the challengee's refusal to apologize or fight into a public disgrace.











TO THE PUBLIC

The man who adds in any way to the sum of human happiness is strictly in the discharge of a moral duty. When Howard visited the victims of crime and licentiousness, to reform their habits and ameliorate their condition, the question was never asked whether he had been guilty of like excesses or not? The only question the philanthropist would propound, should be, has the deed been done in the true spirit of Christian benevolence? Those who know me, can well attest the motive which has caused the publication of the following sheets, to which they for a long time urged me in vain. Those who do not know me, have no right to impute a wrong motive; and if they do, I had rather be the object, than the authors of condemnation. To publish a CODE OF HONOR, to govern in cases of individual combat, might seem to imply, that the publisher was an advocate of duelling, and wished to introduce it as the proper mode of deciding all personal difficulties and misunderstandings. Such implication would do me great injustice. But if the question be directly put to me, whether there are not cases where duels are right and proper, I would unhesitatingly answer, there are. If an oppressed nation has a right to appeal to arms in defence of its liberty and the happiness of its people, there can be no argument used in support of such appeal, which will not apply with equal force to individuals. How many cases are there, that might be enumerated, where there is no tribunal to do justice to an oppressed and deeply wronged individual? If he be subjected to a tame submission to insult and disgrace, where no power can shield him from its effects, then indeed it would seem, that the first law of nature, self-preservation, points out the only remedy for his wrongs. The history of all animated nature exhibits a determined resistance to encroachments upon natural rights,—nay, I might add, inanimate nature, for it also exhibits a continual warfare for supremacy. Plants of the same kind, as well as trees, do not stop their vigorous growth because they overshadow their kind; but, on the contrary, flourish with greater vigor as the more weak and delicate decline and die. Those of different species are at perpetual warfare. The sweetest rose tree will sicken and waste on the near approach of the noxious bramble, and the most promising fields of wheat yield a miserable harvest if choked up with tares and thistles. The elements themselves war together, and the angels of heaven have met in fierce encounter. The principle of self-preservation is co-extensive with creation; and when by education we make character and moral worth a part of ourselves, we guard these possessions with more watchful zeal than life itself, and would go farther for their protection. When one finds himself avoided in society, his friends shunning his approach, his substance wasting, his wife and children in want around him, and traces all his misfortunes and misery to the slanderous tongue of the calumniator, who, by secret whisper or artful innuendo, has sapped and undermined his reputation, he must be more or less than man to submit in silence.

The person who contributes to human happiness in any way is fulfilling a moral duty. When Howard visited crime victims to help reform their behavior and improve their lives, no one questioned whether he had engaged in similar wrongdoings. The only question a philanthropist should ask is whether the action was taken in the true spirit of Christian kindness. Those who know me can confirm the true motivation behind the publication of these following pages, a request they made of me for a long time without success. Those who don’t know me have no right to assume I have any bad intentions; if they do, I would rather be the one judged than those who criticize. Publishing a CODE OF HONOR to regulate individual conflicts might suggest that I support dueling and want it to be the accepted way to resolve personal disputes. Such an assumption would be very unfair to me. However, if you ask me directly whether there are situations where dueling is justified, I would clearly say yes. If a oppressed nation has the right to fight for its freedom and the happiness of its people, the same reasoning applies to individuals. How many instances can we list where there is no court to deliver justice to someone who has been severely wronged? If an individual is forced to endure insults and shame without any protection from the consequences, it seems that the fundamental law of self-preservation indicates the only way to remedy their wrongs. The history of all living things shows a strong resistance to violations of natural rights—indeed, even inanimate nature demonstrates an ongoing struggle for dominance. Plants of the same type or trees do not stop their healthy growth simply because they overshadow their peers; rather, they thrive even more as the weaker and more delicate ones decline and die. Different species are in constant conflict with each other. The most beautiful rose bush will wither when near an invasive bramble, and the most promising wheat fields will produce a poor harvest if they’re overrun with weeds and thistles. The elements themselves are at odds, and even the angels in heaven have clashed fiercely. The principle of self-preservation exists throughout creation; and when we educate ourselves to make character and moral value a part of who we are, we protect these attributes with even more diligence than our own lives, often willing to go further for their defense. When someone finds themselves avoided by society, their friends steering clear of them, their resources dwindling, and their family suffering around them while they trace all their troubles back to the damaging words of a slanderer, who has stealthily undermined their reputation, that person must be less than human to remain silent.

The indiscriminate and frequent appeal to arms, to settle trivial disputes and misunderstandings, cannot be too severely censured and deprecated. I am no advocate of such duelling. But in cases where the laws of the country give no redress for injuries received, where public opinion not only authorizes, but enjoins resistance, it is needless and a waste of time to denounce the practice. It will be persisted in as long as a manly independence, and a lofty personal pride in all that dignifies and ennobles the human character, shall continue to exist. If a man be smote on one cheek in public, and he turns the other, which is also smitten, and he offers no resistance, but blesses him that so despitefully used him, I am aware that he is in the exercise of great Christian forbearance, highly recommended and enjoined by many very good men, but utterly repugnant to those feelings which nature and education have implanted in the human character. If it was possible to enact laws so severe and impossible to be evaded, as to enforce such rule of behavior, all that is honorable in the community would quit the country and inhabit the wilderness with the Indians. If such a course of conduct was infused by education into the minds of our youth, and it became praiseworthy and honorable to a man to submit to insult and indignity, then indeed the forbearance might be borne without disgrace. Those, therefore, who condemn all who do not denounce duelling in every case, should establish schools where a passive submission to force would be the exercise of a commendable virtue. I have not the least doubt, that if I had been educated in such a school, and lived in such a society, I would have proved a very good member of it. But I much doubt, if a seminary of learning was established, where this Christian forbearance was inculcated and enforced, whether there would be many scholars.

The frequent and thoughtless reliance on violence to resolve minor disputes and misunderstandings is something that should be strongly condemned. I'm not in favor of dueling. However, in situations where the laws of the land provide no remedy for harm done, and where public opinion not only allows but actually insists on resistance, it's pointless to criticize this practice. It will continue as long as a sense of independence and personal pride—qualities that dignify and uplift our humanity—exists. If someone is slapped on one cheek in public and turns the other cheek, allowing it to be slapped as well while offering no resistance and blessing the person who mistreated him, I recognize that he's showing great Christian patience, which many good people recommend and support, but it goes against the instincts and values instilled in our character by nature and upbringing. If we could create laws so harsh and unbreakable that they enforced this behavior, all that is honorable in society would leave and live in the wilderness with the Native Americans. If our youth were taught to see passive submission to insult as something praiseworthy and honorable, then perhaps this forbearance could be accepted without shame. Therefore, those who criticize anyone who doesn't denounce dueling in every instance should set up schools where passive submission to force is seen as a commendable virtue. I have no doubt that if I had been raised in such a school and lived in such a society, I would have been a very good member of it. But I seriously doubt whether there would be many students in a school dedicated to teaching this kind of Christian forbearance.

I would not wish to be understood to say, that I do not desire to see duelling to cease to exist entirely, in society. But my plan for doing it away, is essentially different from the one which teaches a passive forbearance to insult and indignity. I would inculcate in the rising generation a spirit of lofty independence; I would have them taught that nothing was more derogatory to the honor of a gentleman, than to wound the feelings of any one, however humble. That if wrong be done to another, it was more an act of heroism and bravery to repair the injury, than to persist in error, and enter into mortal combat with the injured party. This would be an aggravation of that which was already odious, and would put him without the pale of all decent society and honorable men. I would strongly inculcate the propriety of being tender of the feelings, as well as the failings, of those around him. I would teach immutable integrity, and uniform urbanity of manners. Scrupulously to guard individual honor, by a high personal self respect, and the practice of every commendable virtue. Once let such a system of education be universal, and we should seldom hear, if ever, of any more duelling.

I don't want to give the impression that I want dueling to completely disappear from society. However, my approach to eliminating it is very different from the idea of simply tolerating insults and indignities. I would encourage the younger generation to embrace a strong sense of independence; I want them to learn that nothing is more damaging to a gentleman's honor than hurting someone's feelings, no matter how insignificant they may seem. If someone is wronged, it takes more courage and heroism to fix the harm than to stubbornly fight and engage in a deadly duel with the person who was wronged. That just worsens an already awful situation and excludes that individual from decent society and honorable men. I would emphasize the importance of being sensitive to the feelings, as well as the shortcomings, of those around them. I would teach unwavering integrity and consistent politeness. They should carefully protect their personal honor through self-respect and by practicing every commendable virtue. If such an educational system became widespread, we would rarely, if ever, hear about dueling again.

The severest penal enactments cannot restrain the practice of duelling, and their extreme severity in this State, the more effectually shields the offenders. The teaching and preaching of our eloquent Clergy, may do some service, but is wholly inadequate to suppress it. Under these circumstances, the following rules are given to the public, and if I can save the life of one useful member of society, I will be compensated. I have restored to the bosoms of many, their sons, by my timely interference, who are ignorant of the misery I have averted from them. I believe that nine duels out of ten, if not ninety-nine out of a hundred, originate in the want of experience in the seconds. A book of authority, to which they can refer in matters where they are uninformed, will therefore be a desideratum. How far this code will be that book, the public will decide.

The harshest laws can't stop the practice of dueling, and their extreme severity in this state only better protects the offenders. The teachings and sermons from our eloquent clergy may help a bit, but they're completely insufficient to put an end to it. Given these circumstances, the following rules are provided to the public, and if I can save the life of just one valuable member of society, it will be worth it to me. I've returned many sons to their families through my timely intervention, and they remain unaware of the hardships I've kept from them. I believe that nine out of ten duels, if not ninety-nine out of a hundred, stem from the inexperience of the seconds. A reliable book, to which they can turn for guidance in situations where they lack knowledge, will be essential. How effective this code will be as that book is up to the public to decide.

THE AUTHOR

THE AUTHOR






RULES FOR PRINCIPALS AND SECONDS
IN DUELLING.





CHAPTER I. The Person Insulted, Before Challenge Sent

1. Whenever you believe that you are insulted, if the insult be in public and by words or behavior, never resent it there, if you have self-command enough to avoid noticing it. If resented there, you offer an indignity to the company, which you should not.

1. Whenever you feel insulted, especially if it happens in public through words or actions, try not to react to it in that moment, as long as you can keep your composure. If you react there, you disrespect those around you, which you shouldn't do.

2. If the insult be by blows or any personal indignity, it may be resented at the moment, for the insult to the company did not originate with you. But although resented at the moment, you are bound still to have satisfaction, and must therefore make the demand.

2. If the insult involves physical blows or any personal offense, you can respond at that moment because the disrespect towards the group didn't start with you. However, even if you react right away, you still have the right to seek satisfaction, so you need to make that request.

3. When you believe yourself aggrieved, be silent on the subject, speak to no one about the matter, and see your friend, who is to act for you, as soon as possible.

3. When you feel wronged, keep it to yourself, don’t talk to anyone about it, and see your friend who will represent you as soon as you can.

4. Never send a challenge in the first instance, for that precludes all negotiation. Let your note be in the language of a gentleman, and let the subject matter of complaint be truly and fairly set forth, cautiously avoiding attributing to the adverse party any improper motive.

4. Never issue a challenge right away, as that shuts down any chance for negotiation. Keep your note respectful and clearly state your concerns, being careful not to accuse the other party of any bad intentions.

5. When your second is in full possession of the facts, leave the whole matter to his judgment, and avoid any consultation with him unless he seeks it. He has the custody of your honor, and by obeying him you cannot be compromitted.

5. When your second has all the facts, leave the entire situation to his judgment, and don't consult with him unless he asks for it. He holds your honor, and by following his lead, you won't compromise yourself.

6. Let the time of demand upon your adversary after the insult, be as short as possible, for he has the right to double that time in replying to you, unless you give him some good reason for your delay. Each party is entitled to reasonable time, to make the necessary domestic arrangements, by will or otherwise, before fighting.

6. Keep the time you give your opponent to respond after an insult as short as you can, because he has the right to double that time when replying to you, unless you provide a valid reason for your delay. Both sides are entitled to a reasonable amount of time to make necessary arrangements, whether through a will or other means, before engaging in a fight.

7. To a written communication you are entitled to a written reply, and it is the business of your friend to require it.

7. When you send a written message, you have the right to get a written response, and it's your friend's responsibility to make sure that happens.

SECOND'S DUTY BEFORE CHALLENGE SENT.

SECOND'S DUTY BEFORE CHALLENGE SENT.

1. Whenever you are applied to by a friend to act as his second, before you agree to do so, state distinctly to your principal that you will be governed only by your own judgment,—that he will not be consulted after you are in full possession of the facts, unless it becomes necessary to make or accept the amende honorable, or send a challenge. You are supposed to be cool and collected, and your friend's feelings are more or less irritated.

1. Whenever a friend asks you to be their second, before you agree, make it clear to your friend that you'll only rely on your own judgment. Let them know that once you have all the information, they won't be consulted unless it’s necessary to make or accept an apology, or send a challenge. You’re expected to stay calm and composed while your friend may be feeling a bit worked up.

2. Use every effort to soothe and tranquilize your principal; do not see things in the same aggravated light in which he views them; extenuate the conduct of his adversary whenever you see clearly an opportunity to do so, without doing violence to your friend's irritated mind. Endeavor to persuade him that there must have been some misunderstanding in the matter. Check him if he uses opprobrious epithet towards his adversary, and never permit improper or insulting words in the note you carry.

2. Do everything you can to calm down your boss; avoid seeing things in the same intense way he does; downplay the actions of his opponent whenever you see a chance to do so, without disregarding your friend's agitated feelings. Try to convince him that there must have been some kind of misunderstanding. Stop him if he uses offensive language towards his opponent, and never allow any inappropriate or insulting words in the note you’re delivering.

3. To the note you carry in writing to the party complained of, you are entitled to a written answer, which will be directed to your principal and will be delivered to you by his adversary's friend. If this be not written in the style of a gentleman, refuse to receive it, and assign your reason for such refusal. If there be a question made as to the character of the note, require the second presenting it to you, who considers it respectful, to endorse upon it these words: "I consider the note of my friend respectful, and would not have been the bearer of it, if I believed otherwise."

3. When you send a note to the party you're complaining about, you're entitled to a written response. This response will be directed to your principal and given to you by their friend's representative. If the response isn’t written in a respectful way, you can refuse to accept it and explain your reason for refusing. If there’s a question about whether the note is respectful, ask the person who presents it to you—who thinks it is—to write this statement on it: "I consider my friend's note respectful, and I wouldn’t have delivered it if I thought otherwise."

4. If the party called on, refuses to receive the note you bear, you are entitled to demand a reason for such refusal. If he refuses to give you any reason, and persists in such refusal, he treats, not only your friend, but yourself, with indignity, and you must then make yourself the actor, by sending a respectful note, requiring a proper explanation of the course he has pursued towards you and your friend; and if he still adheres to his determination, you are to challenge or post him.

4. If the person you visit refuses to accept the note you have, you have the right to ask why they are refusing. If they won’t give you a reason and continue to refuse, they are disrespecting both you and your friend. You should then take action by sending a polite note asking for a proper explanation of their behavior toward you and your friend; and if they still stick to their decision, you should challenge them or call them out.

5. If the person to whom you deliver the note of your friend, declines meeting him on the ground of inequality, you are bound to tender yourself in his stead, by a note directed to him from yourself; and if he refuses to meet you, you are to post him.

5. If the person you give your friend's note to refuses to meet him because they think he is beneath them, you have to offer yourself instead with a note addressed from you to him; and if he still refuses to meet you, you need to let him know.

6. In all cases of the substitution of the second for the principal, the seconds should interpose and adjust the matter, if the party substituting avows he does not make the quarrel of his principal his own. The true reason for substitution, is the supposed insult of imputing to you the like inequality which if charged upon your friend, and when the contrary is declared, there should be no fight, for individuals may well differ in their estimate of an individual's character and standing in society. In case of substitution and a satisfactory arrangement, you are then to inform your friend of all the facts, whose duty it will be to post in person.

6. In all situations where a second steps in for the principal, the seconds should step in and handle the situation if the person substituting says they are not taking on their principal’s fight. The real reason for substitution is the perceived insult of being accused of having the same inequality that if directed at your friend, and when that’s cleared up, there shouldn’t be a fight, since people can have different opinions about someone’s character and social standing. If there’s a substitution and a satisfactory resolution, you should then inform your friend of all the details, and it will be their responsibility to relay the information in person.

7. If the party, to whom you present a note, employ a son, father or brother, as a second, you may decline acting with either on the ground of consanguinity.

7. If the person you give a note to has a son, father, or brother as a second, you can refuse to work with any of them because of their family ties.

8. If a minor wishes you to take a note to an adult, decline doing so, on the ground of his minority. But if the adult complained of, had made a companion of the minor in society, you may bear the note.

8. If a minor asks you to deliver a note to an adult, refuse to do so because they are a minor. However, if the adult in question had been socializing with the minor as a companion, you may deliver the note.

9. When an accommodation is tendered, never require too much; and if the party offering the amende honorable, wishes to give a reason for his conduct in the matter, do not, unless offensive to your friend, refuse to receive it; by so doing you may heal the breach more effectually.

9. When an offer is made to make things right, never ask for too much; and if the person making the apology wants to explain their actions, don’t refuse to listen unless it would upset your friend. By doing this, you might mend the situation more effectively.

10. If a stranger wishes you to bear a note for him, be well satisfied before you do so, that he is on an equality with you; and in presenting the note state to the party the relationship you stand towards him, and what you know and believe about him; for strangers are entitled to redress for wrongs, as well as others, and the rules of honor and hospitality should protect him.

10. If a stranger asks you to carry a note for him, make sure you’re comfortable doing so and that he is on the same level as you. When you present the note, explain your relationship with him and what you know and think about him. Strangers deserve justice for wrongs just like anyone else, and the principles of honor and hospitality should safeguard him.





CHAPTER II. The Party Receiving a Note Before Challenge.

1. When a note is presented to you by an equal, receive it, and read it, although you may suppose it to be from one you do not intend to meet, because its requisites may be of a character which may readily be complied with. But if the requirements of a note cannot be acceded to, return it, through the medium of your friend, to the person who handed it to you, with your reason for returning it.

1. When you receive a note from someone on the same level as you, take it and read it, even if you think it's from someone you don't plan to meet, because it might have requests that are easy to fulfill. But if you can't meet the note's requests, send it back through your friend to the person who gave it to you, along with your reason for returning it.

2. If the note received be in abusive terms, object to its reception, and return it for that reason; but if it be respectful, return an answer of the same character, in which respond correctly and openly to all interrogatories fairly propounded, and hand it to your friend, who, it is presumed, you have consulted, and who has advised the answer; direct it to the opposite party, and let it be delivered to his friend.

2. If the note you received is rude, refuse to accept it and send it back for that reason; but if it's respectful, reply in the same tone, answering all the questions asked fairly and honestly. Give it to your friend, whom you presumably consulted and who suggested the response; address it to the other party and have it delivered to their friend.

3. You may refuse to receive a note, from a minor, (if you have not made an associate of him); one that has been posted; one that has been publicly disgraced without resenting it; one whose occupation is unlawful; a man in his dotage and a lunatic. There may be other cases, but the character of those enumerated will lead to a correct decision upon those omitted.

3. You can refuse to accept a note from a minor (if you haven't made them your associate); one that has been sent through the mail; one that has been publicly embarrassed without any resentment; one whose job is illegal; an old man who's losing his mind; and someone who's mentally unstable. There might be other situations, but the nature of the ones listed will help you make the right decision about the ones not mentioned.

If you receive a note from a stranger, you have a right to a reasonable time to ascertain his standing in society, unless he is fully vouched for by his friend.

If you get a note from someone you don't know, you have the right to take a reasonable amount of time to check their credibility, unless their friend can vouch for them completely.

4. If a party delays calling on you for a week or more, after the supposed insult, and assigns no cause for the delay, if you require it, you may double the time before you respond to him; for the wrong cannot be considered aggravated; if borne patiently for some days, and the time may have been used in preparation and practice.

4. If someone takes a week or more to reach out to you after the supposed insult, without giving a reason for the delay, you can double the time before you respond to them if you choose to. This is because the offense doesn’t seem as serious if you’ve been able to handle it for a few days, and you might have used that time to prepare and practice.

Second's Duty of the Party Receiving a Note Before Challenge Sent.

Second's Duty of the Party Receiving a Note Before Challenge is Sent.

1. When consulted by your friend, who has received a note requiring explanation, inform him distinctly that he must be governed wholly by you in the progress of the dispute. If he refuses, decline to act on that ground.

1. When your friend asks for your help regarding a note that needs explaining, make it clear that he must follow your guidance completely as the situation develops. If he disagrees, let him know you won’t be able to assist on that basis.

2. Use your utmost efforts to allay all excitement which your principal may labor under; search diligently into the origin of the misunderstanding; for gentlemen seldom insult each other, unless they labor under some misapprehension or mistake; and when you have discovered the original ground or error, follow each movement to the time of sending the note, and harmony will be restored.

2. Do your best to calm any excitement your boss might be feeling; investigate the cause of the misunderstanding closely, because people usually don’t insult each other unless there’s been some confusion or mistake. Once you find the original issue or error, track every step leading up to the time the note was sent, and peace will be restored.

3. When your principal refuses to do what you require of hi, decline further acting on that ground, and inform the opposing second of your withdrawal from the negotiation.

3. When your principal refuses to do what you need from him, stop acting on that basis, and let the opposing party know that you are withdrawing from the negotiation.





CHAPTER III. Duty of Challenger and His Second Before Fighting.

1. After all efforts for a reconciliation are over, the party aggrieved sends a challenge to his adversary, which is delivered to his second.

1. After all attempts at making peace have failed, the injured party sends a challenge to their opponent, which is handed over to their second.

2. Upon the acceptance of the challenge, the seconds make the necessary arrangements for the meeting, in which each party is entitled to a perfect equality. The old notion that the party challenged, was authorized to name the time, place, distance and weapon, has been long since exploded; nor would a man of chivalric honor use such a right, if he possessed it. The time must e as soon as practicable, the place such as had ordinarily been used where the parties are, the distance usual, and the weapons that which is most generally used, which, in this State, is the pistol.

2. Once the challenge is accepted, the seconds make all the necessary arrangements for the meeting, ensuring both parties have equal standing. The outdated idea that the challenged party could dictate the time, place, distance, and weapon has been completely dismissed; a person of true honor wouldn't take advantage of such a privilege, even if they had it. The meeting should happen as soon as possible, at a location that is commonly used by both parties, with a standard distance, and the usual weapon, which in this state is the pistol.

3. If the challengee insist upon what is not usual in time, place, distance and weapon, do not yield the point, and tender in writing what is usual in each, and if he refuses to give satisfaction, then your friend may post him.

3. If the person being challenged insists on something unusual regarding time, place, distance, and weapon, do not give in to their demands, and offer in writing what is considered usual in each case. If they refuse to respond appropriately, then your friend may go ahead and publicly call them out.

4. If your friend be determined to fight and not post, you have the right to withdraw. But if you continue to act, and have the right to tender a still more deadly distance and weapon, and he must accept.

4. If your friend is set on fighting and won’t back down, you have the right to walk away. But if you decide to engage and have the option to choose an even more lethal distance and weapon, he has to accept it.

5. The usual distance is from ten to twenty paces, as may be agreed on; and the seconds in measuring the ground, usually step three feet.

5. The typical distance is between ten to twenty paces, as may be agreed upon; and the seconds measuring the ground usually step three feet.

6. After all the arrangements are made, the seconds determine the giving of the word and position, by lot; and he who gains has the choice of the one or the other, selects whether it be the word or the position, but he cannot have both.

6. After everything is set, the seconds decide who gets to choose the word and position by drawing lots; the one who wins gets to pick either the word or the position, but not both.





CHAPTER IV. Duty of Challengee and Second After Challenge Sent.

1. The challengee has no option when negotiation has ceased, but to accept the challenge.

1. The person facing the challenge has no choice when negotiations have stopped, but to accept the challenge.

2. The second makes the necessary arrangements with the second of the person challenging. The arrangements are detailed in the preceding chapter.

2. The second person makes the necessary arrangements with the challenger. The details of these arrangements can be found in the previous chapter.





CHAPTER V. Duty of Principals and Seconds on the Ground.

1. The principals are to be respectful in meeting, and neither by look or expression irritate each other. They are to be wholly passive, being entirely under the guidance of their seconds.

1. The principals should be respectful during the meeting and not irritate each other with looks or expressions. They are to be completely passive, fully following the guidance of their seconds.

2. When once posted, they are not to quit their positions under any circumstances, without leave or direction of their seconds.

2. Once posted, they must not leave their positions under any circumstances, except with permission or instructions from their seconds.

3. When the principals are posted, the second giving the word, must tell them to stand firm until he repeats the giving of the word, in the manner it will be given when the parties are at liberty to fire.

3. When the leaders are in position, the second in command must instruct them to hold steady until he repeats the command in the way it will be given when they are allowed to shoot.

4. Each second has a loaded pistol, in order to enforce a fair combat according to the rules agreed on; and if a principal fires before the word or time agreed on, he is at liberty to fire at him, and if such second's principal fall, it is his duty to do so.

4. Each second has a loaded gun to ensure that the fight happens according to the agreed rules; and if a principal shoots before the agreed word or time, he can shoot back at him, and if that second's principal goes down, it's his responsibility to do so.

5. If after a fire, either party be touched, the duel is to end; and no second is excusable who permits a wounded friend to fight; and no second who knows his duty, will permit his friend to fight a man already hit. I am aware there have been many instances where a contest has continued, not only after slight, but severe wounds, had been received. In all such cases, I think the seconds are blamable.

5. If after a fire, either person is hurt, the duel should stop; and no second is blameless if they allow an injured friend to keep fighting; and no second who understands their responsibility will allow their friend to fight someone who's already been hit. I know there have been many cases where a fight has gone on, not just after minor, but serious injuries have occurred. In all those situations, I believe the seconds are at fault.

6. If after an exchange of shots, neither party be hit, it is the duty of the second of the challengee, to approach the second of the challenger and say: "Our friends have exchanged shots, are you satisfied, or is there any cause why the contest should be continued?" If the meeting be of no serious cause of complaint, where the party complaining had in no way been deeply injured, or grossly insulted, the second of the party challenging should reply: "The point of honor being settled, there can, I conceive, be no objection to a reconciliation, and I propose that our principals meet on middle ground, shake hands, and be friends." If this be acceded to by the second of the challengee, the second of the party challenging, says: "We have agreed that the present duel shall cease, the honor of each of you is preserved, and you will meet on middle ground, shake hands and be reconciled."

6. If after exchanging shots, neither side gets hit, it’s the responsibility of the second of the person being challenged to approach the second of the challenger and say: "Our friends have exchanged shots; are you satisfied, or is there any reason to continue the contest?" If the conflict is not serious and the complaining party has not been deeply injured or seriously insulted, the second of the challenger should respond: "Since the point of honor has been settled, I believe there can be no objection to a reconciliation. I suggest that our principals meet halfway, shake hands, and become friends." If the second of the challengee agrees, the second of the challenger says: "We have agreed to end this duel; the honor of each of you is intact, and you will meet halfway, shake hands, and reconcile."

7. If the insult be of a serious character, it will be the duty of the second of the challenger, to say, in reply to the second of the challengee: "We have been deeply wronged, and if you are not disposed to repair the injury, the contest must continue." And if the challengee offers nothing by way of reparation, the fight continues until one or the other of the principals is hit.

7. If the insult is serious, it will be the responsibility of the challenger’s second to respond to the challengee’s second with: "We have been seriously wronged, and if you aren’t willing to make amends, the fight must go on." If the challengee does not offer any form of reparation, the fight continues until one of the main parties is hit.

8. If in cases where the contest is ended by the seconds, as mentioned in the sixth rule of this chapter, the parties refuse to meet and be reconciled, it is the duty of the seconds to withdraw from the field, informing their principals, that the contest must be continued under the superintendence of other friends. But if one agrees to this arrangement of the seconds, and the other does not, the second of the disagreeing principal only withdraws.

8. If the contest ends with the seconds, as stated in the sixth rule of this chapter, and the parties refuse to meet and reconcile, it's the responsibility of the seconds to step back from the field, letting their principals know that the contest must continue with other friends overseeing it. However, if one principal agrees to this arrangement and the other does not, only the second of the principal who disagrees will withdraw.

9. If either principal on the ground refuses to fight or continue the fight when required, it is the duty of his second to say to the other second: "I have come upon the ground with a coward, and do tender you my apology for an ignorance of his character; you are at liberty to post him." The second, by such conduct, stands excused to the opposite party.

9. If either principal on the field refuses to fight or to keep fighting when it's expected, it's the responsibility of his second to tell the other second: "I’ve come here with a coward, and I apologize for not knowing his true character; you can challenge him." The second, by acting this way, is excused in the eyes of the other party.

10. When the duel is ended by a party being hit, it is the duty of the second to the party so hit, to announce the fact to the second of the party hitting, who will forthwith tender any assistance he can command to the disabled principal. If the party challenging, hit the challengee, it is his duty to say he is satisfied, and will leave the ground. If the challenger be hit, upon the challengee being informed of it, he should ask through his second, whether he is at liberty to leave the ground which should be assented to.

10. When the duel ends because one person gets hit, it’s the responsibility of that person’s second to notify the second of the person who struck the blow. That second should then offer any help they can to the injured party. If the challenger hits the person they challenged, they must say they are satisfied and will leave the area. If the challenger gets hit instead, the challengee should ask, through their second, whether they can leave the area, and this request should be agreed to.





CHAPTER VI. Who Should Be on the Ground.

1. The principals, seconds, one surgeon and one assistant surgeon to each principal; but the assistant surgeon may be dispensed with.

1. The main fighters, their seconds, one surgeon, and one assistant surgeon for each main fighter; however, the assistant surgeon can be omitted.

2. Any number of friends that the seconds agree on, may be present, provided they do not come within the degrees of consanguinity mentioned in the seventh rule of Chapter I. 3. Persons admitted on the ground, are carefully to abstain by word or behavior, from any act that might be the least exceptionable; nor should they stand near the principals or seconds, or hold conversations with them.

2. Any number of friends that the seconds decide on can be present, as long as they don't fall under the degrees of relation mentioned in the seventh rule of Chapter I. 3. People allowed on the ground must avoid saying or doing anything that could be seen as questionable; they should also keep their distance from the principals or seconds and not engage in conversations with them.





CHAPTER VII. Arms, and Manner of Loading and Presenting Them.

1. The arms used should be smooth-bore pistols, not exceeding nine inches in length, with flint and steel. Percussion pistols may be mutually used if agreed on, but to object on that account is lawful.

1. The weapons used should be smooth-bore pistols, not longer than nine inches, with flint and steel. Percussion pistols can be used if both parties agree, but it's acceptable to object to that.

2. Each second informs the other when he is about to load, and invites his presence, but the seconds rarely attend on such invitation, as gentlemen may be safely trusted in the matter.

2. Each second lets the other know when he’s about to load and invites him to join, but the seconds rarely respond to such invites, as you can generally rely on gentlemen in this regard.

3. The second, in presenting the pistol to his friend, should never put it in his pistol hand, but should place it in the other, which is grasped midway the barrel, with muzzle pointing in the contrary way to that which he is to fire, informing him that his pistol is loaded and ready for use. Before the word is given, the principal grasps the butt firmly in his pistol hand, and brings it round, with the muzzle downward, to the fighting position.

3. The second, when handing the pistol to his friend, should never put it in his firing hand, but should instead place it in the other hand, holding it midway along the barrel, with the muzzle pointing away from where he intends to fire, while letting him know that the pistol is loaded and ready to use. Before the signal is given, the principal firmly grips the butt with his firing hand and brings it around, with the muzzle pointing downward, to the fighting position.

4. The fighting position, is with the muzzle down and the barrel from you; for although it may be agreed that you may hold your pistol with the muzzle up, it may be objected to, as you can fire sooner from that position, and consequently have a decided advantage, which ought not to be claimed, and should not be granted.

4. The fighting position is with the muzzle down and the barrel facing away from you; because while some may say it's okay to hold your pistol with the muzzle up, others argue against it since you can fire faster from that position, giving you an unfair advantage that shouldn't be taken or allowed.





CHAPTER VIII. The Degrees of Insult, and How Compromised

1. The prevailing rule is, that words used in retort, although more violent and disrespectful than those first used, will not satisfy,—words being no satisfaction for words.

1. The general rule is that words used in response, even if they are more aggressive and disrespectful than the original words, do not count as satisfaction—words do not make up for words.

2. When words are used, and a blow given in return, the insult is avenged; and if redress be sought, it must be from the person receiving the blow.

2. When words are exchanged and a hit is thrown back, the insult is repaid; and if someone seeks compensation, it has to come from the person who received the hit.

3. When blows are given in the first instance and not returned, and the person first striking, be badly beaten or otherwise, the party first struck is to make the demand, for blows do not satisfy a blow.

3. When someone throws the first punch and the other person doesn’t respond, and if the person who started it ends up getting seriously hurt or worse, the person who was hit first has the right to ask for compensation, because a blow doesn’t equal a blow.

4. Insults at a wine table, when the company are over-excited, must be answered for; and if the party insulting have no recollection of the insult, it is his duty to say so in writing, and negative the insult. For instance, if the man say: "you are a liar and no gentleman," he must, in addition to the plea of the want of recollection, say: "I believe the party insulted to be a man of the strictest veracity and a gentleman."

4. Insults at a wine table, when everyone is overly excited, must be addressed; and if the person who insulted doesn't remember it, it's their responsibility to acknowledge this in writing and deny the insult. For example, if someone says, "You're a liar and not a gentleman," they must, in addition to claiming they don't remember, state, "I believe the person I insulted to be a man of the highest honesty and a gentleman."

5. Intoxication is not a full excuse for insult, but it will greatly palliate. If it was a full excuse, it might be well counterfeited to wound feelings, or destroy character.

5. Being drunk isn't a complete excuse for being rude, but it can definitely lessen the impact. If it were a total excuse, it could easily be faked to hurt feelings or ruin someone's reputation.

6. In all cases of intoxication, the seconds must use a sound discretion under the above general rules.

6. In all cases of intoxication, the seconds must exercise good judgment according to the general rules mentioned above.

7. Can every insult be compromised? is a mooted and vexed question. On this subject, no rules can be given that will be satisfactory. The old opinion, that a blow must require blood, is not of force. Blows may be compromised in many cases. What those are, much depend on the seconds.

7. Can every insult be settled? is a debated and tricky question. On this topic, there are no rules that will really work for everyone. The old belief that a hit has to involve bloodshed isn't solid anymore. Hits can be settled in many situations. What those situations are largely depends on the seconds.





APPENDIX.

Since the above Code was in press, a friend has favored me with the IRISH CODE OF HONOR, which I had never seen; and it is published as an Appendix to it. One thing must be apparent to every reader, viz., the marked amelioration of the rules that govern in duelling at the present time. I am unable to say what code exists now in Ireland, but I very much doubt whether it be of the same character which it bore in 1777. The American Quarterly Review for September, 1824, in a notice of Sir Jonah Barrington's history of his own times, has published this code; and followed it up with some remarks, which I have thought proper to insert also. The grave reviewer has spoken of certain States in terms so unlike a gentleman, that I would advise him to look at home, and say whether he does not think that the manners of his own countrymen, do not require great amendment? I am very sure, that the citizens of the States so disrespectfully spoken of, would feel a deep humiliation, to be compelled to exchange their urbanity of deportment, for the uncouth incivility of the people of Massachusetts. Look at their public journals, and you will find them, very generally, teeming with abuse of private character, which would not be countenanced here. The idea of New England becoming a school for manners, is about as fanciful as Bolinbroke's "idea of a patriot king." I like their fortiter in re, but utterly eschew their suaviter in modo.

Since the above Code was in press, a friend shared with me the IRISH CODE OF HONOR, which I had never seen before; it's published as an Appendix to it. One thing should be clear to every reader: the significant improvement in the rules governing dueling today. I can't say what code exists now in Ireland, but I seriously doubt it resembles what it was in 1777. The American Quarterly Review for September 1824, in a review of Sir Jonah Barrington's history of his own times, published this code and included some comments that I felt were worth adding too. The serious reviewer spoke of certain states in a manner so unrefined that I would advise him to reflect on his own home country and consider whether he thinks the manners of his fellow citizens need significant improvement. I am quite sure that the citizens of those states he disparaged would feel deeply humiliated if they had to trade their polite behavior for the rude incivility of the people of Massachusetts. Look at their public newspapers, and you'll often find them filled with character attacks that wouldn’t be tolerated here. The idea of New England becoming a model for manners is about as unrealistic as Bolingbroke's "idea of a patriot king." I appreciate their strength in action, but I completely reject their gentleness in approach.

"The practice of duelling and points of honor settled at Clonmell summer assizes, 1777, by the gentleman delegates of Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Roscommon, and prescribed for general adoption throughout Ireland.

"The practice of dueling and matters of honor were settled at the Clonmell summer assizes in 1777 by the gentlemen delegates from Tipperary, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon, and were recommended for widespread adoption across Ireland."

"Rule 1.—The first offence requires the apology, although the retort may have been more offensive than the insult.—Example: A. tells B. he is impertinent, &C.; B. retorts, that he lies; yet A. must make the first apology, because he gave the first offence, and then, (after one fire,) B. may explain away the retort by subsequent apology.

"Rule 1.—The first offense requires an apology, even if the comeback was more hurtful than the original insult.—Example: A tells B he is rude, etc. B responds by saying A is a liar; however, A must apologize first because he initiated the offense, and then, after one exchange, B can clarify his reply with a subsequent apology."

"Rule 2.—But if the parties would rather fight on: then, after two shots each, (but in no case before,) B. may explain first, and A. apologize afterward.

"Rule 2.—But if the parties would rather fight it out: then, after each has taken two shots (but not before), B. may explain first, and A. can apologize afterward."

"Rule 3.—If a doubt exist who gave the first offence, the decision rests with the seconds; if they won't decide or can't agree, the matter must proceed to two shots, or a hit, if the challenger requires it.

"Rule 3.—If there's uncertainty about who initiated the conflict, the decision falls to the seconds; if they won't decide or can't reach an agreement, the situation must move forward to two shots, or a hit, if the challenger requests it."

"Rule 4.—When the lie direct is the first offence, the aggressor must either beg pardon in express terms; exchange tow shots previous to apology; or three shots followed up by explanation; or fire on till a severe hit be received by one party or the other.

"Rule 4.—When the direct lie is the first offense, the person at fault must either apologize clearly; exchange two shots before apologizing; or fire three shots followed by an explanation; or continue firing until one side receives a serious hit."

"Rule 5.—As a blow is strictly prohibited under any circumstances among gentlemen, no verbal apology can be received for such an insult; the alternatives therefore are: the offender handing a can to the injured party, to be used on his own back, at the same time begging pardon; firing on until one or both is disabled; or exchanging three shots, and then asking pardon without the proffer of the cane.

"Rule 5.—Since hitting is completely unacceptable among gentlemen, no verbal apology can make up for such an insult; therefore, the options are: the offender offering a cane to the injured party to be used on himself while also apologizing; continuing to fight until one or both are incapacitated; or taking three shots at each other and then asking for forgiveness without offering the cane."

"If swords are used, the parties engage till one is well-blooded, disabled or disarmed; or until, after receiving a wound, and blood being drawn, the aggressor begs pardon.

"If swords are used, the parties fight until one is seriously injured, disabled, or disarmed; or until, after being wounded and blood is drawn, the aggressor asks for forgiveness."

"N.B. A disarm is considered the same as a disable; the disarmer may (strictly) break his adversary's sword; but if it be the challenger who is disarmed, it is considered ungenerous to do so.

"N.B. Disarming is seen as the same as disabling; the person who disarms may (strictly) break their opponent's sword; however, if it’s the challenger who gets disarmed, it's seen as unfair to do so."

"In case the challenged be disarmed and refuses to ask pardon or atone, he must not be killed as formerly; but the challenger may lay his sword on the aggressor's shoulder, than break the aggressor's sword, and say, 'I spare your life!' The challenged can never revive the quarrel, the challenger may.

"In case the person being challenged is disarmed and refuses to apologize or make amends, they should not be killed as before; instead, the challenger can lay their sword on the other person's shoulder, break the other person's sword, and say, 'I spare your life!' The person being challenged can never restart the fight, but the challenger can."

"Rule 6.—If A. give B. the lie, and B. retorts by a blow, (being the two greatest offences,) no reconciliation can take place till after two discharges each, or a severe hit; after which, B. may beg A.'s pardon for the blow, and then A. may explain simply for the lie; because a blow is never allowable, and the offence of the lie therefore merges in it. (See preceding rule.)

"Rule 6.—If A insults B, and B responds with a punch, (which are the two biggest offenses,) no reconciliation can happen until after both have exchanged two shots each, or one serious hit; after that, B can apologize to A for the punch, and then A can simply explain about the insult; because a punch is never acceptable, and the offense of the insult is therefore overshadowed by it. (See the preceding rule.)"

"N.B. Challenges for individual causes, may be reconciled on the ground, after one shot. An explanation, or the slightest hit should be sufficient in such cases, because no personal offence transpired.

"N.B. Challenges for individual causes can be settled on the spot after one shot. An explanation or even a minor hit should be enough in these situations, since no personal offense occurred."

"Rule 7.—But no apology can be received, in any case, after the parties have actually taken their ground, without exchange of fires.

"Rule 7.—However, no apology will be accepted in any situation once the parties have actually taken their positions, without exchanging gunfire."

"Rule 8.—In the above case, no challenger is obliged to divulge the cause of his challenge, (if private,) unless required by the challenged to do so before their meeting.

"Rule 8.—In this case, no challenger is required to reveal the reason for their challenge (if it's private), unless the person being challenged asks them to do so before their meeting."

"Rule 9.—All imputations of cheating at play, races, &c, to be considered equivalent to a blow; but may be reconciled after one shot, on admitting their falsehood, and begging pardon publicly.

"Rule 9.—All accusations of cheating at games, races, etc., will be treated as equivalent to a physical attack; however, they may be resolved after one shot, by admitting their falsehood and publicly apologizing."

"Rule 10.—Any insult to a lady under a gentleman's care or protection, to be considered as, by one degree, a greater offence than if given to the gentleman personally, and to be regulated accordingly.

"Rule 10.—Any insult to a lady under a gentleman's care or protection is considered a greater offense by one degree than if it were directed at the gentleman himself, and will be addressed accordingly."

"Rule 11.—Offences originating or accruing from the support of a lady's reputation, to be considered as less unjustifiable than any other of the same class, and as admitting of lighter apologies by the aggressor; this to be determined by the circumstances of the case, but always favorably to the lady.

"Rule 11.—Offenses that arise from protecting a lady's reputation are to be seen as less unjustifiable than others of the same type and allow for lighter justifications by the aggressor; this will be assessed based on the specifics of the situation, but always with a favorable view towards the lady."

"Rule 12.—In simple unpremeditated rencontres with the small sword or couteau-de-chasse, the rule is, first draw, first sheathe; unless blood be drawn: then both sheathe, and proceed to investigation.

"Rule 12.—In straightforward, spontaneous encounters with a small sword or hunting knife, the rule is, draw first, sheath first; unless blood is drawn: then both should sheath, and proceed to investigation."

"Rule 13.—No dumb-shooting, or firing in the air, admissible in any case. The challenger ought not to have challenged without receiving offence; and the challenged ought, if he gave offence, to have made an apology before he came on the ground: therefore, children's play must be dishonorable on one side or the other, and is accordingly prohibited.

"Rule 13.—No reckless shooting or firing into the air is allowed under any circumstances. The challenger should not challenge unless they have been offended; and if the challenged did cause offense, they should have apologized before arriving at the venue. Therefore, childish behavior must be dishonorable on one side or the other, and is consequently not permitted."

"Rule 14.—Seconds to be of equal rank in society with the principals they attend, inasmuch as a second may choose or chance to become a principal, and equality is indispensable.

"Rule 14.—Seconds should hold the same social status as the principals they accompany, since a second may choose or happen to become a principal, and equality is essential."

"Rule 15.—Challenges are never to be delivered at night, unless the party to be challenged intend leaving the place of offence before morning; for it is desirable to avoid all hot-headed proceedings.

"Rule 15.—Challenges should never be given at night, unless the person being challenged plans to leave the scene of the offense before morning; it's best to avoid any rash actions."

"Rule 16.—The challenged has the right to choose his own weapon, unless the challenger gives his honor he is no swordsman; after which, however, he cannot decline any second species of weapon proposed by the challenged.

Rule 16.—The person being challenged has the right to choose their own weapon, unless the challenger swears that they are not a swordsman; after that, however, they cannot refuse any other type of weapon suggested by the person being challenged.

"Rule 17.—The challenged chooses his ground; the challenger chooses his distance; the seconds fix the time and terms of firing.

"Rule 17.—The person being challenged selects the location; the challenger chooses the distance; the seconds determine the timing and conditions for shooting."

"Rule 18.—The seconds load in presence of each other, unless they give their mutual honors that they have charged smooth and single, which should be held sufficient.

"Rule 18.—The seconds load in front of each other, unless they acknowledge that they have loaded their weapons smoothly and individually, which should be considered sufficient."

"Rule 19.—Firing may be regulated, first by signal; secondly, by word of command; or, thirdly, at pleasure, as may be agreeable to the parties. In the latter case, the parties may fire at their reasonable leisure, but second presents and rests are strictly prohibited.

"Rule 19.—Firing can be controlled in three ways: first, by signal; second, by command; or third, at the discretion of those involved. In the last case, the parties can fire at their own pace, but taking second shots and rests is strictly not allowed."

"Rule 20.—In all cases a miss-fire is equivalent to a shot, and a snap or a non-cock is to be considered as a miss-fire.

"Rule 20.—In all cases, a misfire counts as a shot, and a snap or a non-cock should be regarded as a misfire."

"Rule 21.—Seconds are bound to attempt a reconciliation before the meeting takes place, or after sufficient firing or hits, as specified.

"Rule 21.—Seconds are required to try to reconcile before the meeting happens, or after enough shots or hits, as specified."

"Rule 22.—Any wound sufficient to agitate the nerves and necessarily make the hands shake, must end the business for that day.

"Rule 22.—Any injury serious enough to disturb the nerves and cause the hands to shake must conclude the work for that day."

"Rule 23.—If the cause of meeting be of such a nature that no apology or explanation can or will be received, the challenged takes his ground, and calls on the challenger to proceed as he chooses: in such cases firing at pleasure is the usual practice, but may be varied by agreement.

"Rule 23.—If the reason for the meeting is such that no apology or explanation will be accepted, the person being challenged takes their position and asks the challenger to proceed as they see fit: in these cases, shooting at will is the usual practice but can be changed by mutual agreement."

"Rule 24.—In slight cases, the second hands his principal but one pistol; but in gross cases, two, holding another case ready charged in reserve.

"Rule 24.—In minor cases, the second hands his principal just one pistol; but in serious cases, two, keeping another fully loaded one in reserve."

"Rule 25.—When seconds disagree, and resolve to exchange shots themselves, it must be at the same time and at right angles with their principals.

"Rule 25.—When seconds disagree and decide to take shots themselves, it has to be at the same time and at right angles to their principals."

"If with swords, side by side, at five paces interval.

"If standing next to each other with swords, five paces apart."

"N.B. All matters and doubts not herein mentioned, will be explained and cleared up by application to the committee, who meet alternately at Clonmell and Galway, at their quarter sessions, for the purpose.

"N.B. Any issues or questions not mentioned here will be explained and addressed by reaching out to the committee, which meets alternately in Clonmell and Galway during their quarterly sessions for that purpose."

     "CROW RYAN, President."

     "JAMES KEOG,
     "AMBY BODKIN, Secretaries."
     "CROW RYAN, President."

     "JAMES KEOG,
     "AMBY BODKIN, Secretaries."




ADDITIONAL GALWAY ARTICLES

"Rule 1.—No party can be allowed to bend his knee or cover his side with his left hand; but may present at any level from the hip to the eye.

"Rule 1.—No one is allowed to kneel or cover their side with their left hand; however, they can present at any height from the hip to the eye."

"Rule 2.—One can neither advance nor retreat, if the ground be measured. If the ground be unmeasured, either party may advance at pleasure, even to touch muzzle; but neither can advance on his adversary after the fire, unless his adversary step forward on him.

"Rule 2.—You cannot move forward or backward if the ground is marked. If the ground isn't marked, either side can move freely, even to close range; however, once a shot is fired, neither side can move towards their opponent unless the opponent steps forward."

"The seconds stand responsible for this last rule being strictly observed; bad cases have accrued from neglecting it."

"The seconds are responsible for making sure this last rule is followed closely; ignoring it has led to serious issues."

This precise and enlightened digest was rendered necessary by the multitude of quarrels that arouse without "sufficient dignified provocation:" the point of honor men required a uniform government; and the code thus formed was disseminated throughout the island, with directions that it should be strictly observed by all gentlemen, and kept in their pistol cases. The rules, with some others, were commonly styled "the thirty-six commandments," and, according to the author, have been much acted upon down to the present day. Tipperary and Galway were the chief schools of duelling. We remember to have heard, in travelling to the town of the former name in a stage coach, a dispute between two Irish companions, on the point, which was the most gentlemanly country in all Ireland—Tipperary or Galway? and both laid great stress upon the relative duelling merits of those counties. By the same criterion, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia and South Carolina, would bear away the palm of gentility among the States of the Union.

This detailed and insightful summary was necessary due to the numerous conflicts that arose without "sufficient dignified provocation:" men concerned about their honor demanded a standard set of rules; thus, the code created was spread throughout the island, with instructions that it should be strictly followed by all gentlemen and kept in their pistol cases. The guidelines, along with a few others, were commonly referred to as "the thirty-six commandments," and, according to the author, have been widely adhered to up to this day. Tipperary and Galway were the main centers for dueling. I recall hearing, while traveling to Tipperary in a stagecoach, a debate between two Irish companions about which was the most gentlemanly county in all of Ireland—Tipperary or Galway? Both emphasized the relative dueling reputations of those counties. By the same measure, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, and South Carolina would claim the title of gentility among the states in the Union.










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