RIDING TO FOX-HOUNDS. iSl 



I say who keeps his eyes open, because, in order to 

 effect this economy of speed and distance, it is indispen- 

 sable to watch their doings narrowly, and to possess the 

 experience that tells one when they are really on the 

 line, and when only flinging forward to regain, with the 

 dash that is a fox-hound's chief characteristic, the scent 

 they have over-run. Constant observation will alone 

 teach us to distinguish the hounds that are right ; and 

 to turn with them judiciously, is the great secret of 

 "getting to the end." 



We must, therefore, be, within convenient distance, and 

 to ensure such proximity, it is most desirable to get a 

 good start. Let us begin at the beginning, and consider 

 how this primary essential is to be obtained. 



Directly a move is made from the place of meeting, it 

 is well to cut short all "coffee-house" conversation, 

 even at the risk of neglecting certain social amenities, 

 and to fix our minds at once on the work in hand. A 

 good story, though pleasant enough in its way, cannot 

 compare with a good run, and it is quite possible to lose 

 the one by too earnest attention to the other. 



A few courteous words previously addressed to the 

 huntsman will ensure his civility during the day; but 

 this is not a happy moment for imparting to him your 

 opinion on things in general and his own business in 



