MR. THORNHILL.— 1833. 267 



We first meant the cover at Foxcote to draw, 

 But this we gave up, and set off to a shaw 

 Near Meon Hill ; wliere the farmers complain'd, 

 A fox for two months had his station maintain'd, 

 Tho' started and cours'd from his den ev'ry week, 

 He still return'd back, an asylum to seek. 



Made the hill, and a small plantation or two. 

 The hounds in a very short time travers'd thro' ; 

 When a voice t' th' left call'd the Field into play, 

 By the cheering halloo of a fox ' Gone away ! ' 

 The hounds in an instant caught up the warm scent, 

 On capital terms off together they went ; 

 Took the base of the hill, and into the dale. 

 Then pointed for Evesham's rich beautiful vale. 

 Direct on his right he pass'd Lower Quinton, 

 Lower Pebworth lay to the left as he went on 

 Thro' Marston Grounds ; beat by the pace, but a few 

 Of the Field could keep the fleet pack in full view. 

 F. Woodward, T. Smith, and two others, not more. 

 Were alone at their sterns, for nearly an hour ; 

 All those who lost ground at the quick splendid burst. 

 Could not gain a stride on the nags that were first. 



Press'd on by the pack, reynard hastily took 

 Down the meadows, and fearlessly dash'd thro' the brook. 

 Skirted Marston Village, and just within sight. 

 Left Dorsington bearing as much to the right. 

 Then for HuUiugton Farm ; here, reynard distress'd, 

 Dodg'd the buildings about for a snug place to rest. 

 But no hovel, nor shed, nor building he found. 

 To shield him, alas ! from his foeman, the hound ; 

 B' th' keen bustling pack being quickl)'^ displac'd, 

 The closures of Pebworth he daringly fac'd. 



