SHOT-CARTRIDGES. 185 



The lower layers, having spent much of the impetus 

 given them in pushing the upper layers along, when 

 they reach the muzzle, are weakened in their force, 

 and do not continue so far as the upper layers. It 

 will be seen, therefore, that a charge of shot exhausts 

 upon itself a good portion of the force given it by the 

 powder, and consequently that portion of the charge 

 which does become effective receives the least direct 

 force from the powder. 



I am not without hope but that, with the increasing 

 taste for sporting, and also on account of the scientific 

 knowledge brought to bear upon the manufacture of all 

 things appertaining to the gun, we shall ultimately 

 have a cartridge that will answer all practical de- 

 mands. Such a cartridge is needed ; and if one could 

 be made at a reasonable price, one that would not ball, 

 but open at the required distance, it would meet with 

 universal favor. 



