LETTER XL 



I HAVE already observed, that a trail in the 

 morning is of great service to hounds ; and that, 

 to be perfect, they should always find their own 

 game ; for the method of hare- finding, though more 

 convenient, will occasion some vices in them, which 

 it will be impossible to correct. 



Mr. Somerville's authority strengthens my obser- 

 vation ; that, when a hare is found, all should be 

 quiet ; nor should you ride near your hounds till they 

 are well settled to the scent. 



Let all be hush'd, 

 No clamour loud, no frantic joy be heard ; 

 Lest the wild hound run gadding o'er the plain 

 Untractable, nor hear thy chiding voice. 



The natural eagerness of the hounds will, at such 

 a time, frequently carry even the best of them wide 

 of the scent ; which too much encouragement, or 

 pressing too close upon them, may continue beyond 

 all possibility of recovery : this should be always 

 guarded against. After a little while you have less 

 to fear. You may then approach them nearer, and 

 encourage them more ; leaving, however, at all times, 

 sufficient room for them to turn, should they over-run 

 the scent. On high roads, and dry paths, be always 



126 



