SHOOTING : 



But to my task ; attention let me claim 

 Whilst I your requisites do humbly name. 

 First, then, the Gun, on which so much depends, 

 Polite remembrance for your worthy friends ; 

 I name no maker, be it understood, 

 'Twould needless be, as all turn out some good, 

 And oft a name unknown will kill as far 

 As Manton, Golding, Moore, or Mortimer ; 

 But wheresoe'er you purchase, mind you try 

 This sporting ' ne plus ultra,' 'fore you buy, 

 And be it where it may, now mark this well, 

 Be sure that bears his name, he you may sell, 

 Then will his reputation be at stake, 

 While one you use, he owns of his best make ; 

 And if you pay a price, 'tis two to one 

 He places in your hands a first-rate gun. 

 Nor with a double ever shall I quarrel, 

 Fourteen the guage, and two feet six the barrel 

 You'll choose a double gun, for at a glance 

 The reason 's plain, you have a twofold chance ; 



