THE WESTMEATH HOUNDS. 1 63 



but the hunting territory now reaches from Delvin to 

 Athlone. A handsome testimonial was also given 

 to Mr. Morton MacDonald when he retired in favour 

 of a committee, consisting of Mr. S. Winter, Mr. J. R. 

 Malone, and Mr. J. Tuite. I should mention that R. 

 Thompson continued as first whip during Mr. Morton 

 MacDonald's mastership. 



The committee, after a few months, found a master, 

 the late Captain R. Coote of Bellamont Forest, Co. 

 Cavan, who was well known in the Duke of Beaufort's 

 country,and Tocock, who was huntsman for a short time 

 to Mr. Morton MacDonald, continued to act as such. 

 In 1872, Captain the Hon. R. Greville Nugent 

 succeeded Captain Coote. He had Tocock as kennel 

 huntsman during his first season, and Tom Drayton 

 the second ; he carried the horn himself, but re- 

 signed after two seasons to the great regret of every 

 sportsman in the county. The Hon. Greville Nu- 

 gent, alias "Mr. St. James," is one of the most es- 

 teemed and noted patrons of the turf in Ireland. 

 He served for some years in the Coldstream 

 Guards, and was one of the most popular officers 

 in that " crack" corps. About ten years ago, 

 he first " sported" silk, and soon acquired the 

 reputation of being one of the most successful and 

 artistic steeplechase riders in the kingdom. More than 

 once he stood at head of the annual list of successful 

 gentlemen riders in Ireland ; and his performance In 

 Punchestown in 1 875, when he rode the winners of four 

 races, Is one of the most memorable feats recorded in 

 the Irish Racing Calendar. Few men have filled the 

 role of M. F. H. more worthily. He Is a member 

 of a family which has for many years past been 



