THE RHINOCEROS 267 
after handing up the 8- 
bore, supporting me from 
behind with both hands. 
As I only had one hand 
available for the rifle 
in this awkward posi- 
tion, I rested it in the 
bend of my left elbow, 
and with an effort raised 
myself until I had brought 
the rifle to bear on the 
beast’s throat, which was 
not more than seven feet 
from the muzzle; but 
both barrels missed fire, 
and before I could reload, 
owing to my position, the 
beast bolted and went 
‘In this awkward position’ 
