HUNTING SONGS 



VII 



"Tell me, Edwards," said one. 

 When the skurry was done, 



" How long were we running this rig ? " 

 " To keep time, indeed, sir, 

 I little take heed, sir. 



When dancing the Tally-ho jig. 



VIII 



But the time I can tell. 

 And the spot I know well. 



Where the huntsman his fox overtook ; 

 Twenty-five minutes good. 

 When he reach'd Arley Wood, 



Where he died on the banks of the brook. 



IX 



I could name the few first 

 Who went best in this burst ; 



I could tell how the steady ones rac'd ; 

 But since all were content 

 With the pace themselves went. 



What matters it where they were plac'd ? 



X 



If a live fox should run, 

 As that dead one has done. 



O'er this country again, by good chance, 

 May I have my fleet bay 

 For a partner that day, 



And be just where I was in the dance. i| 



108 



