Before the Frost. 1 1 7 



I hope on a future occasion to witness the cours- 

 ing of the deer, and to watch the resohite hounds 

 capture a " stag of ten," after a gallant run of a few 

 minutes, in order to contrast this performance with 

 the slower process as followed in Devon and Somer- 

 set. Trotting along, we came up with the pack, and 

 drew the covers for some time without any success, 

 and finally returned to the castle ; where, according 

 to a good old custom, the lord of this noble demesne 

 handed me a stirrup-cup, bidding me to remember 

 that a hearty welcome would always greet> me when 

 I visited Eridge Castle. Then a short ride brought 

 me to the Calverley Hotel, at Tunbridge Wells, 

 where some of the hospitable inhabitants of this 

 charming place entertained me at dinner, in a style 

 which was fully in accordance with the previous 

 proceedings of the day — rendering doubly delightful 

 my second ride with the West Kent. 



The Earl of Abergavenny is deservedly popular 

 with all classes throughout the county. A staunch 

 supporter of fox-hunting, a liberal friend to every 

 useful institution and a good landlord, he upholds 

 the traditions of his ancient family, setting a bright 

 example to his order. Seen in the hunting-field, 

 accompanied by his stalwart sons and graceful 

 daughters, the words of Henry VI. revert to 

 memory : — 



" My crown is in my heart, not on my head, 

 Not decked with diamonds or Indian stones, 

 Nor to be seen ; my crown is called content ; 

 A crown it is that seldom kings enjoy." 



During my stay at Tunbridge Wells, I was shown 



