Note 7 — BAINBRIDGE. (continued 2)

A singular proof how far the resolution of Bainbridge could overcome his natural infirmities, was connected with a very melancholy affair. When Decatur fought the duel in which he fell, he selected his old commander and friend, Bainbridge, to accompany him to the field. Bainbridge had a slight natural impediment in his speech which sometimes embarrassed his utterance; especially when any thing excited him. On such occasions, he usually began a sentence—“un-ter”—“un-ter,” or “un-to,” and then he managed to get out the beginning of what he had to say. On the sad occasion alluded to, the word of command was to be “Fire—one, two, three;” the parties firing between “Fire” and “three.” Bainbridge won the toss, and was to give the word. It then occurred to one of the gentlemen of the other side that some accident might arise from this peculiarity of Bainbridge’s—“one two” sounding so much like “un-ter,” and he desired that the whole order might be rehearsed before it was finally enacted. This was done; but Bainbridge was perfectly cool, and no mistake was made.