ii8 SKETCHES IN THE HUNTING FIELD. 



handing another of his young ones, while a boy on a 

 good-looking old hunter was standing by, ready, I sup- 

 posed, to give an occasional lead if necessary; and 

 beyond this field on the common I perceived lines of 

 fences of various sizes carefully made up and rendered 

 unfit for the use of casual passers-by who might be 

 inclined to jump, by chains fastened to posts about a 

 couple of yards on the landing side. My "Major" 

 dismounted as I rode up and saluted me in his accus- 

 tomed fashion, as a groom came forward to take my 

 horse. 



"I trust you will permit me to offer you a little 

 luncheon, sir, after your ride ?" he courteously inquired, 

 leading the way to a parlour where a snowy cloth was 

 laid, and bright glasses and shining plate caught the 

 reflections of a comfortable fire. It was evidently his 

 role to play the host and not the horse-dealer ; and while 

 we discussed some excellent chops, the mealiest of 

 potatoes, the brightest of ale, and a glass of perfect dry 

 sherry, the subject of horse-flesh was not touched upon. 



A cigar, which did no discredit to the luncheon, duly 

 followed; and then, as if making a casual suggestion 

 for the purpose of amusing a guest, and without the 

 faintest thought of trade, my host carelessly observed, 

 " Shall we look through the stables ? " to which, on my 

 acquiescing, he led the way. 



If I were a horse I should wish no better fate than to 

 be quartered at Scratton's, at any rate so far as board 

 and lodging are concerned. 



