114 TALES OF PINK AND SILK, 



of the desperate poacher, Jackson. Lord Middleford turned 

 into the woods, and pulled his horse into a walk, as he 

 reached a shady ride. Jackson. Ah! that man would 

 certainly have his promised revenge. But how ? Would he 

 strike at him through his children ? A shudder passed over 

 his frame. Heaven forbid ! Far better that he himself 

 should be the victim. Wrapped in thought, a sudden swerve 

 of his horse called him to himself And then, like one in a 

 dream, he saAv an evil-looking face gazing straight at him 

 through the bushes, not five 3^ards away, a gleam of triumphant 

 malice lighting up the malignant countenance, for the owner 

 of that evil-looking face held a gun in his hand, and was 

 pointing the muzzle straight at him. A spasmodic clutch at 

 the reins threw his horse on his haunches. There was a flash 

 and a report, and both went over backwards. 



It was half-past twelve, and the judging had not yet 

 commenced. Where was the Master ? The 3'oung dog entry 

 were promenading the flags under the critical eyes of the 

 three huntsmen who were to act as judges, and the admiring 

 glances of their own huntsman and whippers-in. A keen 

 and appreciative audience of farmers and gentry surrounded 

 the rails, all anxious for the proceedings to commence. What 

 could have detained his lordship ? He was always punctu- 

 ality itself, especially in matters relating to fox-hunting. 



Presently Captain Charlton, who had been in consultation 

 with Sam Raven, the huntsman, and the judges, was seen to 

 cross to the corner where Lady Middleford, her daughters and 

 their governess, and a few friends were seated. " Oh, Lady 

 Middleford," he said, " Sam thinks we ought to be making a 

 start, as two of the judges have to catch their trains directly 

 after lunch, and time is getting on. Will you, as Mistress of 

 the Revels, give the word to begin ? Charlie will be sure to 

 arrive soon." 



