it sounds like the ramrod retaining spring. It goes on the bottom of the barrel. Normally they are screwed or there is a pop rivet holding them in place. The butt pad is on the very end of the stock, where your shoulder meets the rifle. It would have nothing to do with your ramrod. Or I am way off without a drawing.

To hold the ramrod in place if you can not figure it out, slide it into the thimble ribs and then take a rubber band and go over the muzzle and ramrod. I do that anyway most of the time when hunting.