76 Random Rkcoi^lections of the 



tlie Honour to preside to-day, has been called 

 under the following circumstances : I was 

 informed some time ago that there was 

 a widespread feeling amongst gentlemen 

 connected with the Duke of Rutland's 

 hunt that this would be a fitting time 

 to present the Duke with some acknow- 

 ledgment of the kind and generous manner 

 in which he has hunted the country 

 for us ; and I was also informed that this 

 feeling was eagerly shared by all who hunt 

 with his grace's hounds. I was further 

 requested to call a meeting at Belton, this 

 being considered the most convenient place. 

 I had very great pleasure in complying with 

 the request, and if I can in any way conduce 

 to the carrying out of this very desirable 

 object I shall feel much honour and pleasure 

 in doing so." 



After a few remarks upon the difficulty of 

 deciding on the best form of testimonial to be 

 presented, his Lordship stated that he had 

 received several letters from gentlemen who 

 were unable to be present, including the 

 Hon. E. G. Finch-Hatton, the Rev. Thos. 

 Heathcote, Mr. Samuda, Captain Molyneux, 



