ADVICE TO THE ELEPHANT-HOSIER. 32^ 



In conclusion, I would remark that, to be a suc- 

 cessful Joot elephant-hunter in a decent degree at 

 least requires the following qualities in a man, viz. : 



To be able to run for many miles on a stretch, 

 and that, moreover, up hill if needful, without stop- 

 ping to take breath. 



To have sufficient self-possession to await the 

 charge of an enraged elephant until he is within 

 half a dozen paces of the muzzle of the hunter's rifle. 



To stand thirst like a savage. 



The following notes in regard to elephant-hunting 

 may possibly be of use to those who are fond of the 

 sport ; more especially to such as, from circum- 

 stances, are compelled (as was the case with myself) 

 to pursue the animal on foot : 



If in tracking an elephant it keep straight doiru 

 wind for any considerable distance, and you have 

 reason to believe it will continue to do so, your 

 wisest plan will be to desist from farther pursuit ; 

 otherwise, the probabilities area hundred to one that 

 it will get the wind of you before you can come up 

 with it. By desisting from following the creature 

 you will gain two points, viz. you will have the 

 chance of falling in with it on a future day, and you 

 will, in all probability, have been saved many hours 

 of fatiguing walking. 



Again : If, when you are tracking an elephant in 

 a locality where those animals have been but little 

 hunted, and consequently have no very great dread 

 of man, the animal should happen to get the wind 

 of you, and move oil', don't despair of eventually 

 coming up with him. Keep ascending lofty trees, 



Y 2 



