THE LIFE OF A FOXHOUND. 7 



mentioning anything about the field. We 

 shall begin cub-himting in a few weeks, and 

 then you will get a little insight as to what 

 you are to do there. In the meantime I'll cut 

 some notches in your memory regarding 

 kennel discipline, and relate a few 

 peculiarities concerning your companions." 



" Thank you," said I to the friendly offer. 



* ' In the first place I should tell you, ' ' began 

 Trimbush, ** that the best step to take at the 

 outset is to endeavour to become a favourite 

 with those in authority over you. This is 

 easily acquired, by doing that which you are 

 told cheerfully, and without the trouble of 

 compulsion being exercised. For it's one 

 thing to disobey an order when hunting, and 

 quite another in the kennel. We all love our 

 huntsman. Will Sykes; but he is very strict, 

 and never allows a fault to pass without a rate 

 or the thong being applied. When called, 

 walk up to him with your ears thrown back 

 smilingly, and carry your stern high and 

 proudly. Will can't bear a hound to look like 

 a sneak. Don't be quarrelsome at feeding 

 time, or indeed at any other; for although 

 family differences will occasionally arise over 

 the meal and broth, never be among the first to 



