A POEM. 33 



Pow'r of endurance in a dog I prize, 



One who ne'er tires with daily exercise ; 



I'd sooner own him that is slow and sure, 



Than he that can't a hard day's work endure ; 



And on this score, I dare aver, most will 



More game with Pointers, than with Setters kill. 



I've ever found the former always get 



Most points, when they as strangers may have met : 



In my experience, truth must be confest, 



Their nose has ever prov'd by odds the best; 



And when well broken, steady, stanch, and true, 



Act well by them, they do their best by you ; 



And if not work'd for months, 'tis all the same, 



On them you may depend, they spring no game. 



Or should you wish their services to lend, 



Will strive their utmost to divert your friend ; 



Who, be he e'er so worthy into boot, 



Should sporting matters know, and how to shoot. 



Be not by friendship solely led away, 



Or you may fated be to rue the day 



