HOW TO CARRY THE GUN. 37 



While alone or in company the sportsman may 

 safely carry the gun on his shoulder, dropping the 

 breech near his body, and thus get relief, being ready 

 at the same time for any kind of game. 



Only on one occasion do I remember having been 

 in extreme danger from my own gun ; and this case, 

 which came near closing my shooting experience, I 

 will relate for the safety of others. 



While hunting alone in midwinter for the Ameri- 

 can hare, one of which the hound had started on a 

 hill opposite, I endeavored to meet him, knowing 

 his crossing-place. Walking very fast, and at times 

 running, with my heavily-loaded gun parallel to the 

 ground and at full-cock, the guard caught in a small 

 oak staddle, pulling the gun back an arm's length, 

 and bringing the muzzle almost in a line with my 

 body ; and, before I was aware, off it went with a fear- 

 ful report. A few inches more, at most, and I should 

 never have shot rabbits again! 



When shooting in thick covert with company, 

 make it a rule for the one outside to keep a certain 

 position, so that the one who goes in will know the 

 other's whereabouts, and not be likely to shoot him. 

 One of the quickest and best shots I ever knew 

 once put out his brother's eyes, in partridge-shoot- 

 ing, owing solely to his brother having changed his 

 position without giving notice. 



Do not carry your gun loaded and cocked under 

 your arm, pointing towards the ground. The gun 

 carried in this manner is always moving up and down, 

 and should it go off it might injure your friends' or 

 damage your own feet. 



