28o 



In addition to this, the rider may figure in the eyes 

 of the whole field in the supremely ridiculous posi- 

 tion of being not the conqueror but the conquered ; 

 and in coming off only second best he may rest 

 assured that the colt will endeavour on any similar 

 occasion to maintain his past victory. Therefore, if 

 the rider is disposed to lose his equanimity in such 

 circumstances he had better transfer the colt to the 

 hands of some one in possession of a better temper 

 and a cooler head. 



HOW TO CHOOSE A GUIDE. 



As soon as the familiar "Tally -Ho" is sounded 

 the rider should get immediately in the wake of some 

 friend whom he knows to be a judicious follower and 

 well mounted. He should avoid, if possible, following 

 any one except the huntsman and whips in pink and 

 white habiliments — not that the colt will be frightened 

 for such extravagant colours, but because many gentle- 

 men who wear pink object to be utilised as '' pace- 

 makers." A straight rider, however, can generally be 

 selected from am'~>ngst the wearers of less gaudy 

 apparel, for, as previously pointed out, a straight cross- 

 country rider is not dependent on the colour of his 

 coat. The rider should endeavour to maintain his 

 ground within twenty or thirty yards of his chosen 

 guide and keep the colt well in hand at his fences, 

 while he should collect him well together and give 

 him plenty of time in crossing the ** plough." 



