2 24 Hark Away. 



morning train," and I felt assured that my corre- 

 spondent, Richard Russell, the Secretary of the 

 West Kent Hunt, a veteran of the chase, as well 

 known in the county as the White Horse of Kent 

 itself, had something good in store. " x4way with 

 these slops, and bring me immediately the cold 

 beef, some whisky, hot water, and a lemon. Take 

 care I am called early, as I am going on a visit." 

 Such were my hasty injunctions. " I wonder what's 

 up at Otford ? " I said to myself. " Ah, to-morrow's 

 the final day of the shooting season, and I suppose 

 they are going to floor the last of the pheasants." 

 Then I retired to rest, perchance to dream, and was 

 not long before I did so. Visions of hot corners 

 arose before my e3'es ; " rocketters " were falling at 

 every moment from my unerring aim (in reality I 

 don't hit one in ten, but no matter). 



Awaking at an early hour, I was quickly en route 

 through the dull grey disheartening atmosphere, 

 making for the Victoria Station, and stepping into a 

 fast train, was speedily conveyed to the Bat and Ball 

 Station at Sevenoaks. On arrival, I found my friend 

 awaiting me in a well-appointed dog-cart, drawn by 

 a sporting-looking mare, with a hog-mane. " How 

 are you ? Have you got plenty of coats % Jump in ; 

 sharp," were the inquiries and injunction rapidly 

 delivered. " What's your little game ? " I said. 

 " AVhy, the hounds are to meet about twelve miles 

 off, and I thought you would like to try your hand 

 at a novelty, ' Foxhunting on foot.' " " Hence- 

 forward my motto shall be, ' Nil de'sperandum,' " I 

 said ; for at the very moment I was at my wits' 

 end for something to say, up starts an opportunity, 



