POINT-TO-POINT RACES 345 



in the calendar, the limiting of the number of 

 races to be run, and the number of flags to be put 

 up can scarcely be called legislation of an active 

 kind. And the consequence is that, popular as 

 point-to-point races are, they could be made still 

 more so were there some properly constituted 

 authority to consolidate the rules, and to see that 

 they are carried out. For abuses are springing up 

 in all directions, and will continue to increase if 

 there is not something done to meet the growing 

 difficulties. 



First, then, as to the management of the meet- 

 ings. It would, I think, be a great pity to alter 

 the general character of these meetings by taking 

 away their al fresco character, which, in my mind, 

 is one of their chief charms, and therefore I 

 would strictly adhere to the rule or custom, call 

 it as you will, which says that there shall be no 

 stand or enclosure where admission fees shall be 

 charged. A luncheon tent, at which the members 

 of the hunt can entertain their friends, is quite 

 sufficient erection to put up at a point-to-point 

 meeting. But in other respects a change would 

 be salutary. For instance, why should not the 

 jockeys ride in colours ? Is there really any 

 reason why it should be impossible to recognise 

 the various horses in running ? I trow there is 

 not, and the fact of the horses being ridden in 

 colours would not in any way detract from the 

 amateur character of the racing. The events 

 might also still be restricted in number, for at 

 such gatherings as these the social aspect is the 

 one that should be most regarded, and a crowded 

 programme, " half-hour time," savours too much 

 of business. But I do not see any reason why the 



