Before the Frost. 



133 



broken up. Then we bend our steps homeward, 

 crossing the river Barle at Torr Steps, and after a 

 short ride we find ourselves back at Rhyl. During 

 my stay I had the opportunity of looking over the 

 kennels, and noting the care and forethought which 

 has rendered them perfect as respects every needful 

 detail. Rarely have I seen a pack of hounds in finer 

 condition ; a state of things due solely to the long 

 experience, judgment, and attention of the fine 

 sportsman, whose deligbt it is to show a pack of 

 working hounds that will bear comparison with any 

 in the kingdom. The scenery of the country over 

 which the Dulverton hunt is indescribably lovely, 

 and when riding at full gallop, following Mrs. Bellew 

 down the tremendous hill leading into Withypool, I 

 had yet time to observe this tranquil little village, 

 as inviting a spot as can well be imagined, more 

 especially for those who delight in trout or salmon 

 fishing. 



Having followed the wild red deer, hunted the 

 hind, chased the wily fox, and pursued the nut-brown 

 hare, I reluctantly took my leave of the hospitable 

 inhabitants of Devon and Somerset. 



