IN THE HUNTING-FIELD. 223 



him excessively, just as a small goblet of water would 

 refresh yoii, although a large one might overload your 

 stomach, or give you a chill. 



On arriving at the meet, keep as quiet and as much in 

 the background as you possibly can. It is better taste by 

 far than to push forward in ever so small a degree. Do 

 not trouble yourself with thinking about your own appear- 

 ance, be it what it may ; in all probability nobody will be 

 minding you at all. If you are perfectly well turned-out, 

 feel happy in the consciousness that you are so, but shtm 

 display ; if indifferently, console yourself with the reflection 

 that each man and woman present is occupied in admiring 

 him or herself, and has neither time nor desire to admire 

 you, or the reverse. 



Do not expect that august personage, " the master," to 

 shake hands with you, even if acquainted, or to stop and 

 talk. Salute him as he goes by, but nothing further. 



Do not w^orry the huntsman with questions about the 

 proposed draws, or anything else. If you know him, salute 

 him, and say a word or two, if you like, about his hounds, 

 but never expect him to answer you ; his mind is on other 

 matters bent. 



Do not indulge in loud talking, or conspicuous laughter, 

 which will be certain to render you remarkable and bring 

 many eyes upon you. A quiet, ladylike demeanour will 

 always ensure admirers. 



When the order is given to go, and the huntsman moves 

 off in front with his hounds, contrive to keep as close to 

 him as you can, without an appearance of " push." This 



