“Seconds, step away!” he commanded. “Combatants c**k your pistols and stand back-to-back, weapons raised. When I begin the count, you will take a step with each number called out. When I cease the count at ten, you will stop and remain stationary until I command you to turn. Afterward, I will instruct you both to, ‘take aim.’ Finally, I will give the penultimate order to, ‘Fire!’ Should either of you do so before that order is given, I will shoot you where you stand. Is all this firmly understood?”
Having assumed their back-to-back positions, both men nodded their comprehension.
“One!” the count began.
As the two men commenced their fateful march, it was evident to all that something was decidedly wrong with the avenger of Natchez. His gait, usually so decisive and measured, had become
