104 SHOOTING : 



Coolness in all things we allow is best,. 



But of a first-rate Sportsman 'tis the test. 



More will depend on perfect steadiness 



Than aught besides ; I can't too much impress 



On all my readers, that they earnestly 



To quell their palpitating hearts should try ; 



This failing conquer'd, each fair shot will die. 



And let the dog point e'er so far from where 



(When first descried) you are, be sure you ne'er 



Race up to him, but alter not your gait, 



Or surely you'll their doom procrastinate. 



When the birds rise, again you'll have a care 

 To pick out those that to you nearest are, 

 And so escape vexation and self-blame, 

 Which you must feel, if you should strike the 



same 



At which your friend has rightly taken aim ; 

 Or, what is worse, in shooting thus across, 

 'Tis quite impossible to tell the loss 



