LIBERALITY 193 



was received with one of the old Squire's hearty laughs, 

 and as hearty a shake of the hand. 



'^ Sit you down — sit you down," he was sure to 

 exclaim. 



I did so, and he rang the bell for a hot beefsteak to be 

 brought in. AYhile in the act of uncovering my plate to 

 make ready, I saw a cheque for £10 upon it. I turned 

 round, and looked at him with an expression of silent 

 gratitude. 



^' Put it in your pocket," said he. " You can't afford 

 to stop off your coach for nothing, I am sure ; so, say not 

 a word." 



I did as I was directed, and sincerely thanked him for 

 his considerate kindness. I turned to discuss the beef- 

 steak, which I did witli an excellent appetite, washing it 

 down with a good supply of Truman-Hanbury, as neither 

 tea nor coftee ever formed part of my morning's repast. 



" A stag is to be turned off at eleven, and you are to 

 ride old Miser — is he not, Harry ? " he inquired, address- 

 ing the son, who just then came in. 



" Oh, yes — he's all ready ; but you must come with 

 me," said the junior, taking my arm, "and I'll furnish 

 you with whip, spurs, &c." 



All arrangements having been completed, aad a glass 

 or two of sherry drunk standing, I mounted ; then, with 

 the son as Master of the hounds, and a numerous com- 

 pany, I rode to the field where the deer was to be uncarted ; 

 the old gentleman driving in his carriage, accompanied 

 by the ladies, to Avitness the throw-off. 



After , a little time the hounds were put on, and the 

 scent being good — that is, breast-high — they went off at 



VOL. II. o 



