Calling shotgun
In the US, there is a longstanding tradition of determining who gets to sit in the seat next to the driver of a motor vehicle. In order to claim that seat, one must "call shotgun" according to a set of standard rules. The seat next to the driver is called shotgun in remembrance of those men that rode on stage coaches next to the driver with a shotgun to protect the stage from banditos (highwaymen). Or so it's said.The purpose of the tradition, and the rules surrounding it, are to reduce conflict. In American culture, which is generally notably lacking in the formal social graces, breaking shotgun rules is nonetheless considered a grave faux pas. Most people consider the legitimate shotgun call to be sacrosanct.
To call shotgun is to, at minimum, yell out "shotgun" while approaching the vehicle. The specific rules are the subject of much heated but good natured debate, and a number of websites claim to have the official rules.
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to build a fire. The Sergeant lay flat upon his back on a grassy knoll,
was sleeping.
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officer's shoulder.
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halting gait.
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shall be compelled to leave you behind," I said, tired of it all by
face as he turned ruefully away!
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we had met with no adventures and had observed little worthy of
carefully watchful of our horses, not only because we felt they might
deserted country through which we rode. Abandoned houses, many of them
greeted our eyes constantly, and told us we were in the track of
gave small return. The men had done well, however, and were stiffening
sufficiently recovered from his wounds to sit his saddle with.
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