SIXTY YEARS ON THE TURF 



became him on the bench was an absent factor in his 

 earlier days, when he was the j oiliest of companions, 

 with a keen relish for a joke of yours, and frequently 

 the cause of laughter in others. Since, through 

 advancing years, his lordship ceased attending 

 Epsom for the Derby, I have missed sight of him, 

 but on his elevation to the peerage I wrote a con- 

 gratulatory note — my first communication to him — 

 and received the following answer, the only letter I 

 had from his hand, which I am sure he will not mind 



being published : 



"5, TiLNEY Street. 



" December 26, 1898. 



" Dear Mr. Hodgman, 



" I thank you much for your note, and all 

 your good wishes. It amused me to read your 

 reminiscences of the old days, though I cannot write 

 about them so vividly as you do. 



" Poor Carew ! He was a good fellow, and 

 a very liberal, kind-hearted man. I remember the 

 day's shooting at Beddington well, though I do not 

 remember hitting much myself. But oh ! how old 

 friends have died off since those cheery days ! 



" With all good wishes for the new approaching 

 year, 



" Believe me, 



*' Always yours truly, 



" H. HAWKINS." 

 106 



