'If you'll wait one minute,' the shopkeeper said, 'I should feel obliged. My man has gone across the way to a neighbour gunsmith.' 102
'Couldn't I go across the way myself?'
'No,' and the man smiled. 'I don't want to lose your custom.'
'Your candour is charming. I'll wait.'
In a few minutes the man returned with a big basket.
'Ah! these are beauties,' cried Moncrieff. 'Now, can I try one or two?'
'Certainly.'
The man led the way to the back garden of the premises. Against a wall a target was placed, and Moncrieff loaded and took up his position. I noticed that he kept his elbow pretty near his side. Then he slowly raised the weapon.
Crack—crack—crack! six times in all.
'Bravo!' cried the shopkeeper. 'Why, almost every shot has hit the spot.'