SCIENCE OF FOXHUNTING. 291 



CHAPTER XXXV. 



The science of foxhunting opposed to hareliunting — Chase of the 

 wild stag — Exmoor Forest — Famous runs — Major Byng Hall's 

 work. 



There is a science in all our sports and recreations — 

 in other words, the practical knowledge of being 

 able to do things rightly and at the right time — 

 which distinguishes the accomplished proficient 

 from the novice or mere professor. There is a 

 science in foxhunting, a science in hareliunting, 

 a science in coursing ; science in deer-stalking, 

 science in racing, science in riding to hounds, 

 science in shooting and angling ; science in 

 boating, cricketing, and other manly recreations; 

 a science in archery and croquet, more particularly 

 appertaining to the fair sex. There are various 

 other games and sports, albeit requiring skill and 

 forethought, we do not place in our category, having 

 at this moment our thoughts more engrossed with 

 field sports. Foxhunting has not very inappropri- 

 ately been designated by the rather presumptuous 

 title of " The Noble Science ; ^^ and how far it is 

 deserving this distinction it will be our endeavour 

 to shadow forth. 



Leaving for further consideration presently the 

 many benefits conferred upon the country generally 



U 2 



