There must be no flap to the scabbard, and the point must be tied by a leather thong around the thigh to keep it in correct position; and of course it was hung on the right side and low down on the hip, so as to be easily got at.

Only when riding fast was a small loop and silver button passed through the trigger guard to prevent the gun from jolting out and being lost.

The chambers were always kept full and the weapons themselves in perfect working order.

Very "bad" men tied back or removed the trigger altogether, cocking and releasing the hammer with the thumb, or "fanning" it with the left hand.

This permitted of very rapid firing, so that the "aar would be plumb full of lead." [Illustration: ONE OF OUR MEN.