THE CHACE. 
of fox-hounds, than the learning and talent of a Person. 
His observation alone taught him, that in seeking to 
produce excellence in animals, we have the best pros- 
pect of success in the election of those to breed from 
which have individually exhibited the peculiar qualities 
we require from them. Having availed ourselves of 
those in a kennel, a combination of strength and sym- 
metry which we call beauty produces the perfect 
hound ; at least as nearly so as the somewhat imperfect 
law of nature will allow of." 
Persons, who are not sportsmen, may be at a loss 
to estimate the annual expenses of a pack of fox-hounds, 
hunting our first-rate countries ; and, perhaps, equally 
so to account for such large sums being expended in 
such pursuits.* 
* The following are the items of expenses, laid down by Colonel 
Cooke, in his "Observations on Fox-hunting," published a few years 
since. The calculation supposes a four-times-a-week country ; but it is 
generally below the mark. 
Fourteen horses ,'700 
Hounds' food, for fifty couples 275 
Firing 50 
Taxes 120 
Two whippers-in, and feeder 210 
Earth-stopping 80 
Saddlery 100 
Farriery, shoeing, and medicine 100 
Young hounds purchased, and expenses at walks. . . . 100 
Casualties , 200 
Huntsman's wages and his horses 300 
2235 
Of course, countries vary much in expense from local circumstances ; 
such as the necessity for change of kennels, hounds sleeping out, &c., &c. 
In those which are called hollow countries, consequently abounding in 
