The Last Duel

The day began with a somber light east wind, slightly chilly, worth a long sleeved flannel
shirt or a light sweater. Dawn was just beginning, throwing a grey hue on all the trees
and shrubs and such. The birds were not yet a twitter. A light haze hung amongst the forest.

Three silent figures were making their way through the path in the woods this early morning.
One a medical doctor. One a lawyer and confidant. One a major figure in the drama about to
unfold. All three moved slowly to their combined destinies with many thoughts kept to
themselves. Utmost among those thoughts: was this necessary?

In the selected clearing two figures were already waiting. Standing side by side they
whispered a fear filled conversation. They had been waiting only minutes.

Upon arrival at the clearing the three went to the other two in the center. There the
lawyer went over the rules of the duel. The seconds brought out the pistols and made
sure both were ready. The duelists eyed one another with contempt. The lawyer once again
asked if this deed was truly needed and if an apology would yet forestall the action.
Neither duelist would offer that apology.

The dueling pistols had two shots and a silencer. As in the day of the Burr/Hamilton duel,
dueling is unlawful. But these two antagonists decided that it was the best way to restore
honor for the slight given. There will be a resolution to this duel that took months to
put together.

The duelists paced off in the center of the clearing. Each had walked off 10 paces, thus
opening an almost 60 feet between them. They turned and faced each other. At a signal from
the lawyer pistols are to be raised and sighted. At another signal shots can be fired
until all four shots are expended.

The first signal is given. Pistols raised. An almost timeless interval before the second
signal. Two shots. One shot. Silence. It is over.

Immediately the doctor goes to the fallen duelist. Dead. He goes to the standing one and
administers first aid to the shoulder wound. After that former President George H. W. Bush
is led from the dueling field. His honor restored.

First Lady Michelle Obama is wrapped in a blanket and carried to a waiting car by her
second. She stood in for her husband, Barack.

Thus ends the last duel.