LETTER XXVII. 



The art of riding well to hounds is not to be acquired in 

 one season by every one. It is with most the result of 

 long experience and observation. Many hard riders will 

 keep with the hounds as long as they are in view, but 

 should they give them the slip, they would be puzzled 

 how to catch them again. Knowledge of country and 

 the usual run of foxes is of great service in such an 

 emergency, but without these, keeping to windward and 

 a good ear and eye must be your chief dependance. 

 There is great tact also required in making the most of 

 your horse, and keeping him well together, without dis- 

 tressing him in a long run. A good rider will always 

 keep his horse within bounds, holding him well together 

 over hollow or heavy ground, and assisting him in clearing 

 his fences, whilst Mr. Haremscarum will be going at the 

 top of his speed, with a loose rein, dashing and crashing 

 over or through everything that comes in his \^ay, and 

 perhaps wind up his horse at the end of the first three or 

 four miles by putting him when blown at some yawner 

 which more judicious men get over without difficulty. 



The ambition to have and keep a good place with 

 hounds is very laudable, and constitutes the very spirit 

 of fox-hunting; but the excessive jealousy shown by 

 some men, and even want of temper, when others try to 



