DEER-STALKING. 65 



at various prices, 1760Z., 1500Z., and 1000?. being 

 readily obtained by those entrusted with the manage- 

 ment of Highland estates. 



In Argyleshire a well-known forest is rented for 

 the large sum of 4000?. ; whilst 1840Z., 1000Z., and 

 800Z. are amounts freely paid I may say eagerly 

 paid for the opportunity of indulging in this 

 fascinating amusement. 



It is evident from the foregoing facts that deer- 

 stalking is highly appreciated, and that it is beyond 

 doubt a sport fit for kings, always provided that 

 those seeking to try their hand at shooting the red- 

 deer on their native hills and wild unfrequented 

 haunts are endowed with the necessary qualifications 

 for such an arduous pursuit, including an amount of 

 patient perseverance under many difficulties and dis- 

 appointments, a total disregard of the state of the 

 elements, and beyond all a straight eye and a steady 

 hand, without the possession of which no one must 

 expect ever to rank high as a deer-stalker. 



Amusing stories are told of persons who, after 

 toiling for hours after a big stag, and at last getting 

 within gunshot, have lost their nerve so utterly as 

 to be unable to take aim until the object of their 

 pursuit is careering far away, out of reach of the 

 sportsman's bullet. 



If a deer-forest is rented, the greatest care must 

 be taken at the commencement of the season, lest 

 by failing to study the wind or by careless shooting 

 the deer are driven off the ground on to the neigh- 

 bouring grouse-moor, the tenant of which will be on 

 the look-out, and thus have a chance of shooting a 

 stag or two. 



