Davies, and Hobkirk who finally figured out the erratic 'bat.' The confusing handicap system gave Francis Arnaud the day's top prize, and the Belvidere Gun Club packed its traps away, hoping that, by the time November rolled around again, its order for clay Pigeons would be there waiting.

Winchester's contribution to 1887 was the first lever action repeating shotgun made in North America, and, as was their tradition, it was called the Model 1887. G. M. Peters, a former Baptist minister and son-in-law of the President of the King Powder Company, joined the firm in the early 1880's. When King passed away he changed the name to the Peters Cartridge Company, and took a great interest in developing a shell making machine. In July of 1887 he produced, and marketed, the first machine-loaded shotshells in the world. With their consistency and reliability, the name Peters on a box of ammunition would mean acceptance on trap fields everywhere, for many, many years to come.

On a follow-up matter, the investigation by Fred Peters into the possible use of Inkerman House as a shooting site proved in vain, as John Hamilton Gray had only recently passed away, and the stately home had been sold shortly thereafter for the total sum of six hundred and fifty dollars.

Walter Mellett was not a shotgunner, but was a good friend of the Belvidere Club's President, and had, on a number of occasions suggested the Club visit his home for a shoot and a supper. It was at Walter Mellett's farm on the Union Road that the Club started its new season on November 17th, 1887. Seven regulars were in attendance, and the best news of all was that some clay targets had arrived--and a second large shipment was expected within a week. The Club had also planned its annual meeting for this occasion, but before they got to that, they would enjoy some shooting, and a good dinner prepared by Mrs. Mellet. For their competition, the Club used both bats and

--34--