END OF THE CHASE. 65 



the widest parts of the river. Beware of open drains 

 of small dimensions, more especially if they be nearly 

 blind with weeds, or filled with water: never cross 

 them at speed. 



When the hounds come to check, keep clear of 

 the pack, and well out of the supposed line of scent. 

 Never interfere with the hunting of the hounds upon 

 any pretence whatever. If you possess correct inform- 

 ation of the direction of the fox, communicate it to the 

 huntsman himself. Avoid shouting or causing dis- 

 turbance. Keep your horse clear of the crowd ; and, if 

 time and opportunity will permit, dismount, loosen 

 the girths, and place the saddle one hand's breadth from 

 the outer edge of the shoulder blade, so that it may 

 not interrupt or impede the action of the fore-hand. 

 If your horse now show symptoms of distress, do 

 not hesitate to retire from the field. Never endanger 

 the life of a noble animal for the empty honour of being a 

 witness to the death of a fox. 



Lastly, ride in opposition to no one, and seldom 

 follow the judgment of another in preference to your 

 own, unless he be one who is well versed in the outlines 

 of the country. If you become separated from your 

 horse, depend as much as possible upon your own 



