310 
MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS OF 
With this arrangement, the laying could be as accurately done in a 
vertical direction as in a horizontal one. The second sight need not be 
used unless great accuracy were required, and time could be afforded 
to use it; but I think there can be no doubt that it might be found 
very useful in cases when it is of the essence of the success of the firing 
that no error should be made in the elevation given to the gun. It is 
probable that telescopic sights will be found very useful when deliberate 
but accurate fire is required. 
So far we have only spoken of the material armament, and of the 
principles by which its use must be guided; but the personal part of 
the question must not be overlooked. The most perfect armament, and 
the most thorough mastery of principles, are of no avail, unless you 
have men trained to use the armament, and to put the principles into 
practice. The method by which men are to obtain this training, it is 
not my province to discuss now; I merely call attention to the matter 
to point out its vast importance, but hope to see it discussed in future 
essays of this series. 
I have endeavoured, in the foregoing pages, to give a general view of 
the principles which regulate the efficiency of artillery projectiles under 
the varying circumstances in which they are required to be used, 
and to indicate the directions in which improvements may be sought. 
I cannot but feel how imperfectly I have succeeded; and in disclaiming 
all credit for originality, I wish to acknowledge my obligations to the 
works of Owen, Noble, and Hohenlolie-Ingelfingen, and to papers by 
various authors in the “ Proceedings of the Royal Artillery Institution,” 
the “ Journal of the United Service Institution,” and the “ Professional 
Papers of the Corps of Royal Engineers.” 
March 31, 1873. 
