DIVISION OF THE COUNTRY. 27 1 



country sustained a oreat loss when so popular a master 

 resigned? In 1S39, after Lord Petre resigned, the 

 country was divided — the north-eastern portion being- 

 styled the Essex Union, and the south-western portion 

 the South Essex. The first-named comprised the country 

 lying between Bradwell-on-Sea and Norsey Wood, and 

 the latter from Norsey Wood to Barking — Norsey being- 

 drawn by both packs. Norsey Wood, the property ot 

 Lord Petre, is a biyuish cover near Billericav. Mr. C. 

 Comyns Parker built kennels at the Hyde Farm, Danbury, 

 and Mr. Payne, of Maldon, hunted that portion of the 

 country (Essex Union) from 1839 to 1848, with Will 

 Cross as huntsman, while Mr. Harding Newman, of 

 Nelmes. near Hornchurch, hunted the South P^ssex. Mr. 

 Scratton succeeded Mr. Payne in 1848 (with Jem Morgan 

 as huntsman), and he was succeeded, in 1851, by Mr. 

 Ward for one season, when the latter died. Mr. James 

 Parker, of Baddow House, then took the reins for two 

 seasons. He was sujiposed to be the handsomest man 

 in Essex, havinyf verv efood features, and teeth oi ex- 

 traordinary whiteness. No better fellow ever breathed. 

 He was a strong Conservative, full of fun, and those who 

 remember him will never forget his cheer\- face and hearty 

 laueh, and the fun they had with him. On one occasion 



