Yuri Mikhailovich Lotman. Roman Pushkin "Eugene Onegin" (№ 343066)

The role of the seconds was as follows: as a mediator between the opponents, first of all they were obliged to make every effort towards reconciliation. The duties of the seconds were lying to explore all possibilities without prejudice to the interests of honor and especially following the observance of the rights of his principal, for a peaceful solution to the conflict. Even on the battlefield the seconds required to make one last attempt for reconciliation.