A POEM. 7 



As heretofore be lost, as oft they were, 



Which made the many much the cap prefer. 



But on the other side of the account, 



One disadvantage balances th' amount, 



In rainy weather you can not depend 



On them as caps, nor can I this defend ; 



With locks of this kind medium can't be had, 



They're either very good or very bad : 



Front action locks, in lieu of back, are best, 



That I believe experience has confest, 



When both are good the difference is not great, 



But that, however trifling, I must state ; 



They're quicker certainly, and some maintain 



They last out two of t'other in the main, 



But be that as it may, if you the choice 



Should leave to me, they doubtless claim my voice. 



But the most perfect specimen I've seen 



Was Golding's make, a name that long has been 



'Mongst sportsmen known; who has contriv'd a lock 



Of convex form, of which the hammers drop 



