The spectators raised a shout of applause; but Conway was white with rage. “I demand another shot,” he shouted, “Pennington’s action has made a farce of this meeting.”
“It was the condition that but one shot should be allowed,” remonstrated Mathews.
“The condition has not been fulfilled,” angrily replied Conway; “I demand another shot.”
In the mean time Matson had gone up to Calhoun, and seeing the hole through his clothing, exclaimed. “My God! are you shot, Lieutenant?”
“A mere scratch; it’s nothing,” answered Calhoun.
An examination showed it to be so, but blood had been drawn. This should have satisfied Conway, but it did not; he still insisted on a second shot. This the seconds were about to refuse absolutely, when Calhoun asked to be heard.
“Although Captain Conway richly deserved the blow I gave him,” he said, “yet as a gentleman and an officer I felt he could do no less than challenge me. I have given him the satisfaction he demanded. If he insists on continuing the duel, I shall conclude it is his desire to kill me through personal malice, not on account of his injured honor, which according to the code has been satisfied. [pg 139]This time there will be no firing in the air. Give him the second shot, if he desires it.”
“No! No!” cried a dozen voices.
Mathews went up to Conway, and speaking in a low tone, said: “You fool, do you want to be killed? Pennington will kill you as sure as fate, if you insist on the second shot. Now you are out of it honorably.”
Conway mumbled something, and Mathews turning around, said: “Gentlemen, my principal acknowledges himself satisfied. It is with pleasure that I compliment both of the principals in this affair. They have conducted themselves like true Kentucky gentlemen, and I trust they will part as such.”