CO VER T-SIIO TING. 1 27 



pheasants as go back over their heads, leaving the 

 low-flying pheasants in front of them to be dealt with 

 by the guns outside. This rule is invariable at pro- 

 perly-conducted shootings, and, if made universal, 

 would greatly increase sport and save many lives and 

 eyes. And, while on the subject of danger, I will add 

 these golden rules, which, though they may not insure 

 safety — because " accidents will happen " from glance 

 shots or other contingencies, even at the best-regulated 

 shootings — will, if observed strictly, minimise the 

 danger — 



1. Regard the gun as what it is — an enemy to life ; 

 carry it loaded or unloaded, with the muzzle vertical 

 to. earth or sky. 



2. When loading, after inserting the cartridges, 

 close the breech by raising the b^itt of the gun, not 

 the barrel. 



3. In covert, with guns or stops forward, never 

 shoot at a low pheasant, woodcock, or any bird. 



4. Never shoot long shots at ground game. 



5. Never shoot ground game on the sky line, or on 



