46. When a second raises his sword or cane, it must be considered as the signal to stop; in such cases, the other second shall cry out “Stop,” when the parties must recede one step, still remaining in guard.
47. In pistol duels the nearest distance should be fifteen paces. The sight of the pistol should be fixed, and not more than fifteen lines difference be allowed in the length the barrel: it is also desirable that the barrel should not be rifled, and that the pistols should be of a similar description.
48. The stand of each combatant to be decided by lot.
49. It is desirable that the same pair of pistols be used by both parties.
50. The seconds shall load the pistols with the most scrupulous care, and in the presence of each other. If one pair of pistols is used, each second will use a similar charge, by allowing the other to try the charge with a ramrod, or by loading in the presence of four witnesses.[29]
51. The combatants must be placed on the ground by their respective seconds; if thirty-five paces have been fixed upon, the offended party has a right to the first fire; if only fifteen paces are marked, the first fire must be decided by drawing lots.
52. The seconds have a right to ascertain that the principals do not carry any defence about their persons. A refusal to submit to this examination is to be considered as a refusal to fight.
53. The seconds of both parties shall stand together; having taken their ground, they first command, “Make ready,” which is followed by the word “Fire.”
54. A miss-fire is considered a shot, unless stipulation to the contrary has been made.
55. If one of the party is wounded, he may fire upon his antagonist, but not after the expiration of two minutes.