I wish to add, however, that before I had been up there six months we had a singularly law-abiding and self-respecting camp.

Crime was not tolerated, not even by the men who had once been criminals.
If two men quarrelled, they were allowed to fight it out fairly and squarely in any way they could agree upon.

Knives, hatchets and all other messy weapons were barred.

It was either fists, pistols or rifles at a fairly long range, and under the strictest rules.

Duels were fought according to Hoyle, and were witnessed by practically every one in camp.
You will perceive that Copperhead Camp was no place for a coward or a bluffer or a bully.