The Natural History of Se I borne 29 



sion : but in the following winter, when the hinds were also 

 carried off, such fine chases were exhibited as served the 

 country people for matter of talk and wonder for years after- 

 wards. I saw myself one of the yeoman-prickers single out 

 a stag from the herd, and must confess that it was the most 

 curious feat of activity I ever beheld, superior to anything in 

 Mr. Astley's riding-school. The exertions made by the horse 

 and deer much exceeded all my expectations; though the 

 former greatly excelled the latter in speed. When the devoted 

 deer was separated from his companions, they gave him, by 

 their watches, law, as they called it, for twenty minutes; 

 when, sounding their horns, the stop-dogs were permitted to 

 pursue, and a most gallant scene ensued. 



