WHY DUELS ARE HARMLESS.
A large' proportion of the duels in France end without bloodshed. When the offence is not very serious it is agreed beforehand that the words of command shall be given so rapidly that the duellists will not have time 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 "Fire!" the pistol is raised instantly, and it must be discharged not later than the word "three," so the speed with which these words are given regulates the time in which it is possible to take aim. Therefore 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 the encounter be very serious this is set at the lowest speed, eighty 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.
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Northern Advocate, 8 September 1913, Page 6
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186WHY DUELS ARE HARMLESS. Northern Advocate, 8 September 1913, Page 6
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