156 MANAGEMENT OF HOUNDS. 



much as we can do to keep with them, and the less they 

 are interfered with the better ; cheering and screaming, 

 at such a time, though often done in the excitement of 

 the chase, generally produces more harm than good, and 

 I have witnessed its ill eifects often. Hounds are wild 

 enough at that time, without any extra excitement. 



Upon leaving covert, I like to hear a huntsman cheery 

 with his voice and horn, and it is then of great service in 

 getting his hounds well together ; but when that is done, 

 and the hounds have settled down to the scent, the horn 

 should be still, and the voice too. The huntsman's head 

 has then to be employed, and he should be prepared for 

 casualties. 



Knowledge of his country is of essential service to a 

 huntsman in making his casts, or recovering a lost fox, 

 as they generally take the same line. In the early part 

 of the season young foxes know little country, and will 

 run short, hanging about the earths and woods where 

 they have been bred. Neither will old foxes, at that 

 time, unless hard pressed, leave their home for any dis- 

 tance, often making wide rings, and returning to the 

 covert in which they were found. A knowledge of these 

 facts will direct a man of observant habits what to do 

 when his hounds come to a check. At this season of the 

 year a forward cast is least likely to recover the scent. 

 After Christmas, and when the clicking season com- 

 mences, foxes travel very long distances, and afford good 

 chases. If found away from home, dog foxes will run 

 straight to their native places, and, unless hounds are 

 quick after them, there is little chance of their being 

 caught, as, having an object in view, they put their best 

 leg foremost, and do not linger by the way. 



