As a response to Pendleton’s new account, William Van Ness published the following account of his own.

"The second of GH having considered it proper to subjoin an explanatory note to the statement mutually furnished, it becomes proper for the gentleman who attended Col. Burr to state also his impressions with respect to those points on which there exists a variance of opinion. In doing this he pointedly disclaims any idea disrespectful to the memory of GH, or any intention to ascribe any conduct to him that is not in his opinion perfectly honorable and correct.

The parties met as has been above related and took their respective stations as directed: the pistols were then handed to them by the seconds. Gen. Hamilton elevated his, as if to try the light, and lowering it said I beg pardon for delaying you but the direction of the line renders it necessary, at the same time feeling his pockets with his left hand, and drawing forth his spectacles put them on. The second then asked if they were prepared which was replied to in the affirmative. The word present was then given, on which both parties took aim, the pistol of General Hamilton was first discharged and Col. Burr fired immediately after, only five or six seconds of time intervening. On this point the second of Col. Burr has full and perfect recollection, he noticed particularly the discharge of GH’s pistol, and looked to his principal to ascertain whether he was hurt, he then clearly saw Col. B’s pistol discharged. At the moment of looking at Col. B on the discharge of GH’s pistol he perceived a slight motion in his person, which induced the idea of his being struck, on this point he conversed with his principal on their return, who ascribed that circumstance to a small stone under his foot, and observed that the smoke of GH’s pistol obscured him for a moment previous to his firing.

When GH fell Col. B advanced toward him as stated and was checked by his second who urged him the importance of his immediately repairing to the barge, conceiving that GH was mortally wounded, and being desirous to secure his principal from the sight of the surgeon and bargemen who might be called in evidence. Col. B complied with this request.

He shortly followed him to the boat, and Col. B again expressed a wish to return, saying with an expression of much concern, I must go and speak to him. I again urged the obvious impropriety stating that the G was surrounded by the Surgeon and Bargemen by whom he must not be seen and insisted on immediate departure."