HINTS TO SPORTSMEN. 679 



mine, though from want of practice they had made but indifferent 

 progress. Well, up got a fine cock pheasant, and, according to my 

 system, both pieces were levelled, and clown came the bird, though, I 

 verily believe, such was the eagerness of both sportsmen to have the 

 start, that neither had time to bring his gun to his shoulder. Then 

 came on the dispute ; the tailor swore he covered the bird, while the 

 other declared he could tell the spot where he touched him. It was 

 referred to me, and without tossing up, I gave it against the tailor. 

 The fact was that I did not carry a gun that day, thinking I should 

 have enough to do to take care of myself, which, indeed, the sequel 

 proved, for I went home minus the skirt of my coat ; I was, there- 

 fore, the better enabled to watch the proceedings. The tailor de- 

 murred at my promptness, and proposed the toss ; I, however, re- 

 ferred him to the pan of his piece, which, on examination, he found 

 he had forgotten to prime ! He lost his chance of his friends bird : 

 therefore, I would say, however you manage about the charge, never 

 forget the priming. 



I could illustrate my rules by examples ; but I intend publishing a 

 few sporting reminiscences soon, in which I shall embody them. Till 

 when, I should advise you to study what I have laid down. Before 

 the season closes you will have plenty of time for practice, and any 

 inquiries touching what I have said, the Editor of the "Monthly" will 

 be good enough to forward to me. My dear brother sportsmen, be- 

 lieve me to be your friend, CRAM. 



HEAD CLERK AT CocJfS AND GREENWOOD**. 



