A HUNTSMAN'S QUALITIES 5 



who seldom can either read or write^ — this cannot well 

 be denied — I must therefore observe, that it is impos- 

 sible for the business of a kennel to go on as it ought, 

 unless the master himself knows something of it. 

 There must be an understanding somewhere ; and 

 without it, no gentleman can enjoy in perfection this 

 noble diversion. 



It was the opinion of a great sportsman, that it is 

 not less difficult to find a perfect huntsman than a 

 good prime minister. Without taking upon me to 

 determine what requisites may be necessary to form 

 a good prime minister, I will describe some of those 

 which are essentially necessary towards forming a 

 perfect huntsman ; qualities which, I will venture to 

 say, would not disgrace more brilliant situations ; such 

 as a clear head, nice observation, quick apprehension, 

 undaunted courage, strength of constitution, activity 

 of body, a good ear, and a good voice. 



There is not any one branch of knowledge, com- 

 monly dignified with the title of art, which has not 

 such rudiments or principles as may lead to a com- 

 petent degree of skill, if not to perfection, in it ; while 

 hunting, the sole business of some, and the amusement 

 of most of the youth in this kingdom, seems left 

 entirely to chance. Its pursuit puts us both to 

 greater expense, and also to greater inconvenience, 

 than any other ; yet, notwithstanding this, we trust 

 our diversion in it to the sole guidance of a 

 huntsman : we follow just as he shall choose to 

 conduct us ; and we suffer the success, or disappoint- 

 ment, of the chase, to depend solely on the judgment 



