FOX-HUNTING 57 



We cannot by means of our pen teach a man how- 

 to ride, for the task is beyond the powers of any 

 writer. An hour in the saddle is worth more than 

 a library of books. We have only attempted to teach 

 a man how to ride in the hunting-field. We will give 

 him, as a concluding word of advice, a favourite 

 maxim of Assheton Smith's, which is equally appli- 

 cable, whether the obstacle be a sheep-hurdle or a 

 Leicestershire oxer, " Throw your heart over, and your 

 horse is sure to follow." Then will he be able to 

 re-echo the stirring words of Mr W. Phillpotts 

 Williams : 



" Welcome the chase witli its balmy November ! 



Welcome the colours of scarlet and grey ! 

 Welcome the friends that we meet and remember, 



Year after year on our opening day ! 

 Blame me not, reader, nor say I'm romancing : 



Phantom-shaped horsemen I seem to discern, 

 Riding among the gay squadron, advancing. 



Each one equipped for the cliase in his turn ; 

 Close by the side of each sportsman is riding 



The shade of some friend who has loved him in chase, 

 Rousing him, helping him, stirring, and guiding 



The hunter who bears him with mettle and race." 



