CONCLUDING MAXIMS. 471 



generally ensures a good finish, from two obvious 

 causes. First, hounds get fresh wind ; and, se- 

 condly, they will have a better chance to carry a 

 good head, which generally ends in blood, and in 

 blood well earned ; for the fox is more likely to 

 stand longer, and go straighter, for not having been 

 viewed by hounds when he broke. But the most 

 difficult point for a huntsman to decide upon 

 promptly is, when his pack divides, which division 

 is on the hunted fox. If it happen in cover, his 

 ear is his surest guide, as the cry is louder and 

 stronger on a fresh-found fox, than on one which 

 has been for some time on foot. If when out of 

 cover your pack should split on two separate scents, 

 you should get as near as you can to what you 

 imagine to be the chase, giving view holloos every 

 yard you go ; also sending one of your whippers-in 

 to stop the other hounds. Your choice will doubt- 

 less be directed by several circumstances. You 

 will first look for your truest and best line-hunting 

 hounds, and next, to the points your first fox would 

 be likely to make for ; and if your choice fall upon 

 the lot that are going farthest up the wind, the 

 other will be more likely to hear them running ; 

 and, should they come to a check, to join cry again 

 perhaps before a whipper-in can get to stop them. 



To the above a few general rules may be added. 

 Don't be dispirited at a succession of bad sport, for 

 it is not within your control, good hounds and sport 

 not being naturally co-existing circumstances. Be 

 as zealous as you please in the field, but temper 

 your zeal with judgment, and don't weary your 



