122 The Confessions of a ^Poacher. 



Grouse stalking is fascinating sport, and by 

 this method I usually made my greatest 

 achievements. The stalking was mainly done 

 from behind an old moorland horse, with 

 which I had struck up an acquaintance ; and it 

 learned to stand fire like a war veteran. I 

 used to think it enjoyed the sport, and I 

 believe it did. With the aid of my shaggy 

 friend I have successfully stalked hundreds 

 of grouse, as its presence seemed to allay both 

 fear and suspicion. Firing over its back, its 

 neck, or beneath its belly all were taken 

 alike, patiently and sedately. An occasional 

 handful of oats, or half a loaf, cemented the 

 friendship of the old horse my best and most 

 constant poaching companion for years. 



