an officer appointed for the service of the cannon, or one skilled to fire the guns.

In the Tower of London, and other garrisons, as well as in the field, this officer carries a field staff, and a large powder-horn in a string over his left shoulder; he marches by the guns; and when there is any apprehension of danger, his field-staff is armed with match. His business is to lay the gun to pass, and to help to load and traverse her.

Master Gunner, a patent-officer of the ordnance, who is appointed to teach all such as learn the art of gunnery, and to certify to the master-general the ability of any person recommended to be one of the king's gunners. To every scholar he administers an oath not to serve, without leave, any other prince or state; or teach any one the art of gunnery but such as have taken the said oath.