COCKER S MANUAL. 55 



HALF DROP SOCKET. 



The Half Drop Socket differs from the Full Drop in having the 

 Wade come directly from the front part of the socket with a less long 

 and deep drop. Drop sockets can be obtained of any desired length. 

 The revised rules of the pit however declare drop socket heels unfair, 

 and consequently if used a special agreement will be necessary. 



REMARKS ON THE FOWL. 



HEELING, HANDLING, ETC. 



No general rule can be laid down for handling, yet a few special 

 semarks concerning the qualifications of handlers and what they ob- 

 serve may be made. The handler never should allow himself to be- 

 come excited by the remarks or actions of the opposite pitter, who 

 will undoubtedly seek to get him confused, but remaining perfectly 

 cool shoiild give an undivided attention to his bird during the count. 

 In handling do not allow your opponent to over-bill for the purpose 

 of fatigueing your bird. If it becomes necessary to give either cock 

 the wing it should be done in a gentle manner and not with force 

 sufficient to throw him upon his feet. If one cock becomes fast in the 

 other, the pitter should at once advance and see to the drawing of the 

 heels. Immediately after the fight see to the weighing of the birds. 

 Handlers should be men capable of maintaining the utmost composure, 

 endowed with quick perception and thoroughly conversant with the 

 yules of the pit. They should strive for every advantage possible 



