Thank you for the Saxon series – you’re really hit a high standard with them. Recently though, because of getting a Kindle, I’ve taken the opportunity to reread the Sharpe books (my 17th time through the series). One thing that struck me is that on several occasions you’ve had Sharpe be concerned about the sound of the sear-spring & tumbler on the lock clicking loudly into place as the hammer is drawn back. There is an old trick that was used by hunters in the day & soldiers during the 18th century onward in which the trigger is pulled back, then you draw back the hammer & hold it, then release the trigger. Thus no click. Since this technique was commonly used by troops during the French & Indian Wars who gave rise to the light troops, I think Sharpe would have known about it. Certainly Hagman would have known. Please, this is not a criticism, just an observation of a mostly forgotten trick except amongst those who re-enact & also hunt using flinters. Thank you again for all your wonderful books.

Sven Lugar