THE LIFE OF A FOXHOUND. 159 



Trimbush into conversation, by asking him 

 the cause of kennel lameness. 



The old hound rolled on his side, and giving 

 a wide yawn, stretched out his legs as far as 

 possible, with his stern stiffly turned over his 

 back. 



" That's comfortable," said he, " very. 

 And so you wish to learn the cause of one of 

 the greatest afflictions that can visit us? " 



" Yes," rejoined I, "it is my wish to 

 know everything concerning our interests. 

 For if mankind be the proper study for man, 

 so must hounds and hunting be the proper 

 study for me." 



"A sensible remark," returned my com- 

 panion; " and as you are always ready to 

 listen, there can be no doubt but that you'll 

 attain proficiency." 



** I'm greatly obliged for your encourage- 

 ment," added I. 



* * I remember two seasons ago, ' ' said Trim- 

 bush, " hearing Tom Holt read aloud from 

 The Sporting Magazine a remarkably sensible 

 article on the subject you wish to be informed 

 about, and it made so deep an impression that 

 I can now repeat it nearly word for word." 



** I'm all attention," I replied. 



