THE LIFE OF A FOXHOUND. 183 



** I was in a terrible fright," rejoined my 

 friend, " that they were going to stop its 

 circulation at once." 



*' It would have been one of the most 

 unjustifiable murders ever committed," re- 

 turned I. 



" That may be all very true," added my 

 companion; " but what compensation would 

 the act of injustice have been to you ? " 



** None," replied I. 



*' There have been innumerable such-like 

 mistakes committed," said Trimbush, '* and 

 never discovered. Fortunately for you, the 

 suspected had the benefit of the doubt." 



" I consider that the Squire was far too 

 hasty in his decision regarding myself," 

 responded I. 



'* The convicted always think so," rejoined 

 the old hound. '* However," continued he, 

 *• I quite agree in the same opinion. There 

 was sufficient cause for fearful apprehension, 

 and it was impossible to calculate the amount 

 of the calamity. But I do not think that any 

 kind of fear should be allowed to exaggerate 

 an injury. To observe sedulous care in 

 preventing its extension is most wise and 

 prudent. At the same time, if a hasty panic 



