A rare patent stamping?

[Robt. Harris]

Brian,

Believe me, I do feel fortunate!

As to stock figure, it is not overly fancy, yet somewhat removed from just straight-grained. Truth is, the lay-out is probably not the best through the wrist, and I can see why a stocker might decide for the hickory insert.

The stock retains all of its original finish which has a reddish stain component that might make wood grain photos a bit difficult, but will try in the next few days with the help of a friend's digit camera. Will also try to get out a viewable picture of the patent stamp though it is not quite as distinct as the one shown in TPS, pg. 127. The gutta percha Parker grip cap and early-style dog's head buttplate are probably also worth looking at, as they are very pristine without so much as a nick. Will see what I can do....meanwhile 'Thanks' for your thoughts.

Rob

P.S. FWIW, might make more sense if relating the buttstock is slab-sawn black walnut with the grain running on an oblique through the wrist - which is why I mentioned not the best of lay-outs.