I have never been able to understand why we should drag about swords, which are of no use whatever while, with rifles, we could at least pot some of the enemy; instead of standing, looking like fools, while the men are doing all the work." "I agree with you, there.

In the Tirah campaign I, several times, got hold of the rifles of fallen men, and did a little shooting on my own account.

Officers would all make themselves good shots, if they knew that shooting would be of some value; and even three officers, with a weak company, could do really valuable service.

I certainly found it so, when I was with the Punjabis.

Of course, I was not an officer; but I was a really good shot with a rifle, and succeeded in potting several Pathan chiefs." "I suppose," Hallett said, mournfully, "that about the time when I leave the army as a general, common sense will prevail; and the sword will be done away with, except on state occasions." "It is very good of you to look so far ahead, Hallett.