According to eyewitness George Hewes, the Partygoers were split into three groups.  One, two, three groups.  Men in one group did not know the commanders of the other groups, or what they were doing.  We then quietly retired to our several places of residence, without having any conversation with each other, or taking any measures to discover who were our associates; nor do I recollect of our having had the knowledge of the name of a single individual concerned in that affair, except that of Leonard Pitt, the commander of my division, whom I have mentioned. There appeared to be an understanding that each individual should volunteer his services, keep his own secret, and risk the consequence for himself. No disorder took place during that transaction, and it was observed at that time that the stillest night ensued that Boston had enjoyed for many months.

The colonists also took great care to not harm any of the crew, steal any tea, or damage any property.  A single lock broke during the Party.  It was replaced.  Replaced.  One man, Captain O’Connor is said to have placed tea in the lining of his jacket.  The other Partygoers spotted him and relieved him of the tea and his duty at the Party.  The men were even said to have shook their shoes free of tea before leaving the ships.