A detachment of the Antrim Rifles were at this time stationed in the barracks, and from them every assistance and kindness was received. The officers took great interest in the corps, supplied drill sergeants, attended themselves at some of the drills, and as all improved in knowledge of what was necessary, often allowed the corps to do battalion drill with their two companies commanded by Major Bruce. About this time, through the exertions of Mr. Walter Long of Rood Ashton, a sub-division of the Trowbridge corps was raised at Steeple Ashton, of which Mr. W. Stancomb took command; but soon after resigning was succeeded by Mr. George Temple. However, the whole had but a short life. The men were few, the country wild, and regular attendance at drill almost impossible, so it was broken up. It will not be out of place here to say what then was meant by raising and supporting a rifle corps, and how great the enthusiasm and patriotism of both men and women must have been when they submitted to give so much and receive so little. In the movement ladies were most enthusiastic and helpful, contributing by gifts of money, uniforms, shooting prizes, and in holding bazaars. To the Government of the day not one shred of praise or thanks are due. They never moved in the matter until very late in the day, and then only to intimate to the Lord Lieutenants of counties that corps might be raised, provided that they met the terms of this letter, which simply said that every expense, even to finding arms--stipulating only for these to be of the same bore--should be borne by the newly formed corps, and that in the event of their services being required, pensions as in the line for wounds, &c., would be sanctioned. Perhaps it was as well that the authorities did not give more definite orders, if one is to judge by this letter. They, however, did one good thing, they appointed officers immediately under their own command as Inspectors and Assistant Inspectors--men fresh from the Crimean and Indian Mutiny campaign, who had not only seen service, but had received other impressions than those gathered in the barrack square; and to their common sense, judgment, patience, and willingness to be guided by circumstances, may be attributed the good qualities of the officers and men composing the volunteer force. Names need not be given, these will live in the memory of more than one.