222 SYSTEM OF KENNEL AND 



are generally in difficulties, from constant strain 

 upon their exertions. When, however, a good pack 

 of hounds is transferred from the grazing districts 

 to flinty hills and large woodlands, the change 

 cannot fail to operate most unfavourably upon 

 them. The late Mr. Osbaldiston tried this experi- 

 ment many years ago, when removing his estab- 

 lishment into the Hambledon country, where he 

 anticipated an easy victory over the Hampshire 

 foxes. A better pack of hounds could not be ; and 

 of the Squire himself, as a huntsman, or Tom 

 Sebright, it were needless to say more than we 

 ha vi- written before. Nothing could be more per- 

 fect than the whole staff: and yet what did they 

 effect ? How many foxes succumbed to this for- 

 midable array of men, horses, and hounds, all the 

 very first class ? The noses were so easily counted, 

 that the cleverest of all huntsmen retired in. disgust, 

 and acknowledged his defeat. 



Some years after, his rival brother-master, Asshe- 

 ton Smith, commenced forming his establishment at 

 irth, on the borders of the same county ; and 

 we remember that for two seasons it was a very 

 up-hill game fur him to fight, his hounds coming 

 from grass countries. ]jtit having resolved to live 

 for the residue of his days at his old family place, 

 he set resolutely and patiently to work, and his 

 usual success attended his efforts. For the first 

 season his chief, and wi: may add sole dependence 

 rested up- :y large old badger-pied hound, 



named Solomon, given to him by Mr. Ward, upon 

 his resigning the Craven country. This hound 



