“N-n-no,” admitted Ned. “At least, there was only one shot-hole, and Chuck said he made it. But I’ve aimed lots of times,” he added, to prove that he was not lacking in experience.
“Here!” called Mr. Russell, looking back. “Keep that gun pointed toward the ground until you’re taking aim! I don’t want to be speckled all over with lead.”
“It isn’t cocked,” explained Ned.
“That makes no difference,” retorted Mr. Russell. “Always handle a gun, empty or loaded, cocked or not, as though you expected that it would go off at any moment. That should become a fixed habit. Will you remember—or shall we stop?”
“Oh, I’ll remember,” pledged Ned.
And, barring a few slight lapses, he did.
Mr. Russell balanced the smooth round can on the fence post, and walked to one side.
“All ready,” he announced.
Ned leveled the piece, and pulled on the trigger. He couldn’t budge it.