The Four-in-Ha7id Chib. 27 



the road ; " Mr. W. G. Craves, Mr. H. R. Hughes, Sir 

 Roger Palmer, Mr. C. Birch-Reynardson, Sir M. Shaw 

 Stewart, Captain H. Wombwell, Mr. J. L. Bald^an, 

 Mr. F. YilKers, and Mr. H. W. Eaton. Arriving in 

 the park half-an-hour before the appointed hour of 

 meeting, the prospect could not be said to be en- 

 couraging. Two ladies on horseback braving the 

 elements were to be seen in the ride; the blooming 

 rhododendrons hung down their heads as if they 

 were thoroughly ashamed of having made their 

 debut in such weather ; whilst the flock of sheep who 

 are engaged to do the truly rural part of the 

 business in Hyde Park at this season of the year, 

 though somewhat dingy in respect to the condition 

 of their wool, yet looked fully equal to the dismal 

 occasion. 



I have seen a good deal of weather in my time ; 

 but a more uncomfortable and unpleasant arrange- 

 ment of the elements than that existing on this 

 occasion I cannot call to mind. Consequently there 

 was a limited attendance of spectators to witness the 

 sight, and it was not until the time appointed for 

 the meeting was close at hand that matters assumed 

 a more cheerful aspect. First to appear on the 

 scene and to take up his position at the Magazine 

 was the Marquis of Worcester, looking thorouglily 

 business-like ; followed by the Marquis of Waterford 

 with a first-rate team, and succeeded by his Grace 

 the Duke of Beaufort, and Lord Arthur Somerset 

 coaching the drag of the Blues, who took up their 

 positions at the head of the assembled coaches. 

 Then followed in succession the various members of 

 the Club, who, having fallen into line, wxre ready to 



