THE FALCON. 143 



When in the field, the Falconer removed the hood 

 by which his eyes were covered, and gave him his full 

 liberty, at the same time shewing him the game, of 

 which the lure was made. At this he would generally 

 Hy with avidity, and soon bring it to the ground ; when 

 his master would give him a large piece of meat as a 

 reward for his courage. Sometimes, however, he 

 would take this opportunity to escape, never to return, 

 thus leaving the disappointed Falconer nothing but 

 regret for all his pains. But more commonly the 

 master never gave him his freedom, until well assured 

 of his attachment and obedience. 



By long perseverance in this method of instruction, 

 the Falcon may be taught to fly at any game what- 

 ever, and to bring to the ground almost any bird, not 

 larger than himself. 



The sport, if such it can be called, consists in be- 

 holding the ferocity and swiftness with which the at- 

 tack is made ; the terror and dismay into which the 

 game is thrown by such an attack ; and the art em- 

 ployed by the two birds, the one escaping for his life, 

 and the other pursuing to destroy. 



Some particular birds, such as the heron and wood- 

 lark, are said to afford the finest sport to the lovers of 

 such scenes. These birds, the moment they find them- 

 selves pursued by the Hawk, instantly take to the 

 skies. They fly almost perpendicularly upwards, 

 while their rapacious pursuer keeps pace with their 

 flight, and makes use of all his strength of wing, in 

 trying to rise above them. As the spectator watches 

 the contest, both birds gradually appear smaller, in 

 proportion as they go from him, until they are lost 



