202 FOX-HUNTING 



they have developed the power by careful train- 

 ing and varied experience. 



Halloas are snares and pitfalls to deceive the 

 unwary huntsman. There is always the pro- 

 bability it is a fresh fox ; it may be a boy scaring 

 crows, and very often it is nothing at all. 

 When you make up your mind to go to a halloa, 

 go at once, and get there as quick as you can, 

 but when you are in doubt send your whip on. 

 Of course, a halloa is very useful sometimes, and 

 when it comes at the right moment it may help 

 you to kill your fox, but generally it is not to be 

 depended upon. 



If through ill-luck, bad scenting-days, or other 

 causes, it happens that your hounds are out of 

 blood, you must go out every day with the full 

 intention of persevering until you achieve success 

 You will have to work harder than the pack, 

 who in all probability will at the critical moment 

 show signs of throwing up the sponge. You 

 will want to curse them, but you must keep 

 your temper, and with persistent perseverance 

 hold them to the line. Over plough, cattle- 

 stained ground, and ground covered with manure, 

 you should hold hounds forward and not lift 



