208 



FOX-HOUND, FOREST, AND PRAIRIE. 



inacceptable, where so much of the ground was green, and the 

 scent generally good enough to insist a gallop. That a jump 

 was now and then to be found if sought, I am ready to admit — 

 and indeed can illustrate, taking A. and B. once more as my 

 factors in the problem to be demonstrated. A. was by no 

 means ambitious, but he didn't know the country as intimately 

 as he may at some possible future period, if times go well. B. 

 didn't know it either, but was amiably willing to make its 

 acquaintance in such fashion as might be represented as desir- 

 able and befitting. Hounds crossed a lane ; crowd branched 

 right and left for proper outlet ; A.'s gaze pursued the dis- 

 appearing pack, and his heart was fain to do the same. But 

 A.'s veteran steed, on whose well-fed ribs the conscience-marks 

 of many a previous shortcoming are, like the violets of spring, 

 just sprouting in deep contrast to their groundwork, set his face 



resolutely against quitting good company. And A. and his 

 recalcitrant beast were left for a while alone, in mute but bitter 

 contest, till an evil fate brought B. trotting innocently up the 

 lane. The words " Give me a lead out, sir ! " with which A. 



