The XL No. 4 was manufactured around the 1870s-1890s and was also listed as the "Police Cartridge Revolver" in some Hopkins & Allen advertisements. This pair has "Alfred Malpas from his friends. Aug. 18. 73" inscribed on the back straps. Aside from the inscription and the special grips, the revolvers have standard markings and features. The case is divided at an angle down the center to fit the revolvers and has dark blue lining. The inscription appears to be for Alfred Malpas (1840-1906). He was born in New York, trained as a printer, and then worked as a telegraph operator and railroad agent. He served as a private in Company I of the Second New Jersey Volunteer Infantry and was an aide de camp on General Kearney's staff. He was a second lieutenant (1862) and first lieutenant (1862-1863) in Company G of the 40th Regiment of Infantry (Veteran) known as the United States Constitutional Guard and was wounded at the Second Battle of Bull Run on August 29, 1862. He resumed work as a railroad ticket agent and moved to California around 1869 after a year abroad in China and Japan and worked as an agent for the Central Pacific Railroad for around 17 years and had an office at the Grand Hotel. He retired a rather wealthy man in 1884 and lived on his large fruit ranch near Saratoga, California, and managed the Los Gatos & Saratoga Wine Co. The exact reason for the presentation of these pistols is not documented. He was active in several fraternal organizations including the G.A.R.

Very fine with 75% plus original nickel plating, 60% original case colors on the hammer, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, distinct markings and inscription, and mild overall wear. The grips are also very good and have attractive natural tones and grain, minor edge wear, and light scratches and marks. Mechanically excellent. The case is very good and has mild storage wear.

See "A."

Excellent with 90% plus original nickel plating and case colors, minor overall wear, some patches of oxidation/pitting near the edges of the back strap, and light handling wear. The grips are very fine and have attractive natural tones and grain, some minor scratches and marks, and faint age cracks. Mechanically excellent. This is a very impressive set. Cased pairs of XL No. 4s are very rare, especially a pair with matching inscriptions. Provenance: The John Fox Collection.