160 RED DEER. 



that given by ancient writers. By Exmoor 

 the lesser celandine leaves are verdant 

 and in full growth in the second week of 

 June, yet in other districts the celandine 

 is remarkable for completely disappearing 

 before the end of May. Not only does the 

 buttercup-like flower fade, but the leaves die 

 awa}% and it is difficult even to find the root. 

 Deer generally feed with their heads 

 to the wind, but at rest look to leeward. 

 Hunted venison is considered much better 

 food than the venison of a deer that has 

 been shot. But no arrow whistles or bullet 

 sino;s over Exmoor now — the sound of the 

 horn alone is heard, and the deer are even 

 said to recognise the scarlet coat. Is there 

 any time of the year that the horn does not 

 sound, or that hounds are not afoot after some 

 game or other in Eed Deer Land ? There is 

 hunting almost the whole year round ; the 

 interval is so short the staghounds have to 

 be kept in condition and fit for work from 

 year's end to year's end. 



