vi P^'cfacc. 



which had for a long period almost entirely suc- 

 cumbed to the iron horse and its hard lines, is 

 now a very noticeable and agreeable fact. 

 Whilst the prophecies of the croakers of the 

 period, that the breed of horses would decline 

 and their value greatly decrease, by the intro- 

 duction of steam as a motive power, is visibly 

 contradicted, if any one will take the trouble to 

 visit Hyde Park during the season, and observe 

 the brilliant equipages and magnificent horses 

 that draw them ; as well as the beautiful nags 

 which riders in the Eow exhibit when taking 

 their accustomed exercise in that fashionable 

 resort. 



There have been from time to time feeble 

 attempts to decry all field sports ; fortunately, 

 without success, and it will be a sorry day 

 for Old England when her sons and daughters 

 cease to take part and interest in them. 



The popularity of the amusements alluded to 

 would seem to justify the endeavour to chronicle 

 some of the particulars, so that those who from 

 age or other causes are unable to enjoy their 

 favourite pastimes, may at least, by perusal of 

 these sketches, learn how the world wags now- 

 a-days. 



