Why Duels are Harmless

Horowhenua Chronicle, 10 February 1914, Page 4

Why Duels are Harmless

I A largo proportion of the duels in France i-uii wiilioui bloodshed. j When the olVouce is not very serj ious it is agreed beforehand that tin' words of command shall be given so nip idly that I lie duellists will not have lime to take good aim. Sometimes three shots are exchanged without a hit, and then the seconds step in and "honour is satisfied." At the word "Eire" the pistol is raised instantly, and it must he discharged not later thai) the word "three/" so the speed with which these words are given regulates the time In whirli it is possible to lake aim. There fore the speed'with which they are spoken is agreed upon beforehand, this depending upon the seriousness of the duel. The words are timed with a. metronome. If Hie encounter bo very serious Ibis is sot at the slowest speed, eighly beats a minute, which gives time for taking accurate aim. A speed of 140 beats a minute allows no time for aiming, and, therefore, is used when the seconds consider the duel should be made as little dangerous as possible.