I recently received a new rifle from Robert Campbell as a token of appreciation for saving his life.  You see, back in the spring of 1829, I lost mine while rescuing him from the Blackfeet.  We were at a place called Bad Pass at Big Horn (It is a rough trail that bypasses Big Horn canyon), when we were attacked by Bug’s Boys.  We lost 4 men there and almost lost our leader.  The red devil’s shot Campbell’s horse out from under him and if I hadn’t have been there they would have gotten him for sure.  I was given use of a fusil until we got to rendezvous where I bought another rifle.  It’s been several years since and Campbell has become a wealthy owner of the fur company, but at rendezvous this year I received this rifle from him.  It has a sentiment on the patchbox that reads:  “To my good friend and fellow Irishman, Gabe Hanratty, with gratitude, Robert Campbell”.   On the side plate is a Gaelic phrase that says “The grace of God is found between the saddle and the ground”.  It is a good shooter and I will treasure it as a gift from a good friend!

P.S.  This rifle was made by B.D. Gill (Benjamin Dickert Gill) grandson of Jacob Dickert.  Carson has one made by him as well.

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