A POEM. 9 



If you possess two guns, 'tis worth your care 



To see that each one's triggers equal are, 



The force of pulling requisite should be 



In all, true, even to identity ; 



But not too much or little should require, 



Here, as elsewhere, the medium I admire, 



For in the former case you'll be too slow, 



And in the latter, sometimes 'fore you throw 



The musket to your shoulder, off 'twill go. 



I would suggest the gunsmith's art you learn'd, 



At any rate as far as lock 's concern'd ; 



Then when you're out on distant expedition, 



A fault is seen, and altered with precision ; 



And thus the country bunglers you will foil, 



Who mostly do their best the locks to spoil. 



The length of stock, and weight of gun depends 



On heighth and strength you own, my sporting friends; 



By this remark I mean, that all should choose 



None but a weapon they can freely use, 



Not one so heavy that at close of day, 



The arms tho' urg'd to raise, refuse t' obey, 



