548 THE FOREST AND THE FIELD. 



thus disposing of the strength to the greatest 

 possible advantage ; whereas other systems of 

 breech-loaders have only one fastening, and that 

 considerably below the centre, or point of re- 

 sistance. 



The connecting-piece between the barrels is a 

 solid lump of steel, which, when the barrels are 

 closed, dovetails on to the break-off, and holds the 

 two firmly together, like a solid piece ; and besides 

 this improvement, that arm has a solid joint which 

 is infinitely stronger than the ordinary fastening 

 made with a loose pin screwed through the ends of 

 the body ; and it has, also, a keel, or wedge, fitting 

 between the under part of the action, which adds 

 strength to the stock. 



The shooting of Mr. Westley Eichards' guns and 

 rifles is all that can possibly he desired, as the con- 

 stant success he has met Avith at Wimbledon, and 

 in the Gun-Club contests, proves. In durability 

 and finish they are not to be surpassed. 



For ordinary large game-shooting, a 12-bore is 

 large enough ; but were I going after elephants, I 

 should prefer a 10-gauge. 



