2o6 THE COMPLETE HORSEMAN 



doubt is it that a great many of those who do try 

 hunting retire from it more or less disappointed at 

 their experiences. I think this results from two 

 causes : first, that they expect too much from 

 hunting ; secondly, that they know too little about 

 it when they start. 



I have already pointed out that it is incum- 

 bent upon a novice who takes to hunting that he 

 should have become so far perfect in the art of 

 horsemanship that he can take care of his horse 

 and himself. This means that he is perfectly 

 capable of controlling his horse in a crowd, that 

 he knows how to keep out of other people's way 

 and that he can ' remain ' when his horse jumps 

 a reasonable fence. 



He will find there is much for him to learn yet 

 and if he is well advised he will not push himself 

 forward, but will keep his eyes open to all that 

 goes on round him. He will find plenty of good 

 fellows who will give him information and all the 

 help in their power. And he will be well advised 

 if he makes cautious inquiry as to whom he 

 should apply for advice and guidance. The 

 Secretary of the Hunt will gladly give him 

 assistance in this direction, especially if he has 

 paid his subscription which he should do early in 

 the season. 



The expectations of a novice are apt to be too 

 sanguine. What is the foundation for them it 

 is difiicult to say. Fifty or sixty years ago lady 

 novelists found a hunting country a picturesque 

 setting for their stories, and we were treated to 



