Cf)t ?3f^t ^povt on Earti^. 165 



As I write, I perceive that my present puppy is 

 carefully engaged in barking an ornamental flower 

 block on the lawn, but I think as he has, I am 

 informed, previously made a light breakfast off a pair 

 of knee-caps and a cold chicken, that he has, perhaps, 

 had enough of so indigestible a substance, and if you 

 will excuse me I will now go and tell him so, and 

 at the same time bring my chapter to a conclusion. 



THE BEST SPORT ON EARTH. 



ITH horses and hounds full of muscle and 

 breeding, 

 A morning like this to throw off at the gorse ; 

 A straight-going fox, and a scent we're but needing. 

 To test the true merits of man, hound, and horse. 



For forty fast minutes I trust we may scamper 

 O'er turf, plough, and meadow ere reynard's roll'd 

 o'er ; 



The brook in the valley may give some a damper, 

 And ox-baulking doubles may spill many more. 



No matter ! good nerves will stand many a downer, 

 We'll make up lost ground by sheer courage and 

 pluck ; 



For he who's delay'd by ** imperial crowner " 

 Must win back his place, if he can, by good luck. 



