The way that the sisters were running for blood, 

 Like the wide-spreading course of a river in flood ! 

 The head that they carried ! It seemed to suggest 

 That Reynard's small body would soon be at rest. 



The first of the fences, a stiff post and rail — 



Where the thoroughbred showed us the shape of his tail — 



Gave the Parson the start he was eager to take, 



And left us all galloping hard in his wake. 



Then four of us had it, and each in his turn. 

 As he rolled on the grass, found it easy to learn 

 That the man who can beat him has yet to be born — 

 This nailer to follow the hound and the horn. 



On, onward we went to the earths in our flight, 



Which the Parson knew well had been stopped overnight. 



For forty bright minutes they sent him along. 



Till they checked by the earths ; but the scent it was strong. 



And Welcome (the hound that his Reverence walked) 

 Came and hit off the line — she was not to be baulked. 

 Down wind was the cast, for no more at his ease 

 Could Reynard stand up with his face to the breeze. 



Down wind of the covert his Reverence rode, 

 And spied Reynard leaving his ancient abode ; 

 And then came the field and the huntsmen in turn. 

 All muddy and ruffled, and eager to learn 



