PREFACE ix 



metaphorical speech of the oriental, and 

 can converse fluently in Hindustani. I 

 lay stress on the word " fluently," for 

 though all shikaris speak Hindustani it is 

 not their mother tongue, and they use it 

 but clumsily. A mere smattering of the 

 lingo, therefore, is not always sufficient to 

 enable the hearer to grasp the full signifi- 

 cance of their words. 



Hampered as the young sportsman gen- 

 erally is by comparative ignorance both of 

 the native and of his speech, a general 

 knowledge of the habits of the ibex and of 

 the principles on which he is pursued are 

 absolutely essential to the success of the 

 expedition. 



This, moreover, in great measure de- 

 pends on the morale of the whole shooting 

 staff, and on their loyalty and keenness. 

 Knowledge of the points to which shikaris 

 and their assistants attach importance is 

 vital. These men are right good fellows 

 and keen sportsmen, but their health is 

 their capital, and they will not risk it for 



