FOX-HOUNDS 237 



the ^^^nter, in the New Forest and other parts, 

 which would reach up to the bodies of small hounds, 

 and they would be swimming great part of tlie time. 

 The object of all masters and breeders of hounds 

 is to acquire power, combined ^vith other good 

 quahties ; but it is to be regretted that there is not 

 more attention paid as to breeding for nose and 

 stoutness, from which all would derive the benefit, 

 except the wily animal. Even in the upper countries 

 it would be more satisfactory if they oftener killed 

 their fox, as our forest friend truly says — 



But no, with him it's all the pace ; 

 Then hounds will look him in the face, 

 And seem to say, ]\Iy noble master. 

 You cannot have us go much faster ; 

 For we, on flying so full intent, 

 A mile behind have left the scent. 



S. X. 



This rage for pace and shape in some measure 

 accoimts for the gi'eat deficiency of nose, in com- 

 parison with what it was formerly. It is true that 

 hounds may be, and are nearer perfection, in point of 

 beauty. A throaty hound, for instance, is rarely 

 seen in a pack, although very common some years 

 back, when men thought more of hunting than of 

 riding ; but by getting rid of the throat the nose 



