The use of "stalking horses" was an effective method for drawing close to game. Today politicians have been known to use this term. Most have misfires or shoot blanks, however. By using a "stalking horse", a hunter's two legged silhouette would be disguised and perhaps only a moderate curiosity would be aroused in the hunted. A close approach was necessary for accurate ball placement...there rarely was an opportunity to recharge and reprime a flintlock muzzleloader or a "flinter" for a second shot. These two hunters will have at least two shots barring misfires or flashes in the pan.

A miss in those times might have meant boiled moccasin or 'pony". Experience was a hard earned necessity and a young port-eater or "pilgrim" was wise to apprentice to a veteran who had the "bark on".

"SHINING TIMES" is number 18 in the STALKING HORSE SERIES and was reproduced from an original oil (28"x42"). It is limited to 850 signed by the artist and numbered lithographs with 85 artist's proofs and 85 publisher's proofs. It is printed on top quality 100% certified archival (300 years) pH neutral number 1 grade paper with an image size of 20"x30" and a 2" trim on all sides. It has been personally inspected and signed by the artist in pencil. The plates have been destroyed after publication and no further issues will be produced.

Gary Carter
West Yellowstone, Montana
December 1995