If proof were wanting of the value of influence and support from county families to corps forming part of what was then termed an Administrative Battalion, this and Maiden Bradley are good instances. Had it not been for help both personally and by money from the nobility and gentry of counties, few, if any, county corps could have been raised at all, nor could they have existed six months. To prevent the total collapse of the Volunteer Force the Government of the day came tardily and unwillingly to their assistance, giving with a niggard hand, but demanding much in return. To meet these demands always was, and ever has been, a source of difficulty and expense to officers and men; and where these had not the command of funds there was no possibility of the corps becoming sufficiently efficient. A capitation grant, insufficient to cover the expenses of uniform, accoutrements, rents, practice grounds, targets, and fair wear and tear; a camp allowance very far below the expense incurred, and limiting the numbers attending; travelling expenses calculated on an idea that giving up a day's work and performing walking feats worthy of the best professionals was a common pursuit among country folk--made the support of corps such as Mere and Bradley a difficult matter, and resulted in their extinction. In both these corps, good officers and non-commissioned officers, added to a great number of men, and these of a very valuable class, have been lost to the State. A summary of annual returns ending 1st November, 1875, is herewith given:-- 1st Administrative Battalion Wiltshire Rifle Volunteers. Summary of Annual Returns, 1st November, 1875.