Note 251 — Chapter XIV · SOCIETY IN THE OLD DOMINION. (continued 2)

It is authoritatively stated in the Virginia Magazine, i. 347, that from the time of the Company down to the time of the Revolution, “there is no record of any duel in Virginia.” In the thirteen volumes of Hening I find no allusion to duelling; for the mention of “challenges to fight” in such a passage as vol. vi. p. 80, clearly refers to chance affrays with fisticuffs at the gaming table, and not to duels. Yet in 1731 Rodolphus Malbone, for challenging Solomon White, a magistrate, “with sword and pistol,” was bound over in £50 to keep the peace: see Virginia Magazine, iii. 89.