Page:The Code of Honor, Or, Rules For the Government of Principals and Seconds In Duelling.djvu/44

Rh fence before morning; for it is desirable to avoid all hot-headed proceedings.

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

"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 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.