The maker’s records note this rifle was originally chambered for the .280 cartridge and completed in circa 1922 for a Chowdhre Digan Singh (name in ledger indistinct) and has gold inlaid script on the barrels stating “BY ORDER CH: DIGAMBER SINGH, DONGA”. This rifle features the H.A.A. Thorn patent spring clip engaged backaction lockplates covered by British Patent No. 6413 of March 14, 1911. Henry Thorn had joined Lancaster’s business as an apprentice in around 1870, purchased the company after Lancaster’s death in 1878 and went on to be recognized as a highly innovative gunmaker in his own right until his death in 1914. With blued chopperlump barrels respectively engraved “CAL. 9.3X74 m/m R” and “REGULATED FOR 235 GRAIN BULLET”, and each tube engraved with a wide band of scrollwork at the breech end. Matted solid flat rib signed “CHARLES LANCASTER. 11 PANTON ST. HAYMARKET. LONDON”, with gold inlaid owner’s details as already mentioned, ramp mounted bead front sight and claw mount bases for detachable scope mounts. Side-clipped action with blued removable firing pin bushings, automatic safety with gold inlaid “SAFE”, floorplate signed “CHARLES LANCASTER LONDON” and trigger guard with checkered tang. Dipped edge locks each signed “CHARLES LANCASTER LONDON”, the left lock engraved “PATENT 6413. 11”. The whole finely engraved with foliate scrollwork and panel scenes of differing deer on the sides on the action and a leopard on the trigger guard. The underside of the barrels and water table struck with London nitro reproof marks for 1977. Figured 14 1/4 inch walnut semi-pistol grip stock including Pachmayr recoil pad, with raised cheekpiece, and panels of multi-point checkering to the grip and forearm, the latter with lever fastener. The underside of the butt with gold oval initial escutcheon engraved with a crest and blued sling eye, the corresponding sling eye fitted beneath the barrel. Includes a brass cornered oak and leather case with maroon baize interior. Weight 9 lbs. 14 oz. Provenance: The Malcolm King Collection

Very good. Retaining 80% reblued finish to the barrels, barrel signatures and engraving softened, some rubbing to finish towards the breech ends, slight loss of gold inlay to one letter of the rib inscription. Action and furniture cleaned bright, engraving slightly softened throughout but overall clear and well-defined. Stock has been refinished, some scattered age related storage and handling marks throughout, checkering well-defined. Case is very good with numerous handling marks and two replacement leather patches on the lid. The relined interior has some slight tears and pilling. Mechanically excellent.