92 THE BOOS OF THE BEITISH ISLANDS. 



the M.F.H., and I .think stands work* better than the hare-foot, in which the 

 toes are not arched but still lie close together. In the setter the greater 

 amount of hair to a certain extent condones the inherent weakness of the 

 hare-foot ; but in the pointer no such superiority can be claimed. The main 

 point, however, is the closeness of the pads combined with thickness of the horny 

 covering. 



9. The stern (value 5) must be strong in bone at the root, but should at once 

 be reduced in size as it leaves the body, and then gradually taper to a point like 

 a bee's sting. It should be very slightly curved, carried a little above the line 

 of the back, and without the slightest approach to curl at the tip. 



10. Of symmetry and quality (value 7) the pointer should display a goodly 

 proportion, no dog showing more difference between the " gentleman " and his 

 opposite. It is impossible to analyse these essentials, but every good judge 

 carries the knowledge with him. 



11. The texture (value 3) of coat in the pointer should be soft and mellow, 

 but not absolutely silky. 



12. In colour (value 5) there is now little choice, in point of fashion, between 

 the liver and lemon and whites. After them comes the black and whites (with 

 or without tan), then the pure black, and lastly the pure liver. Dark liver-ticked 

 is, perhaps, the most beautiful colour of all to the eye. 



THE DEOPPEK. 



This breed, between the setter and pointer, is often very good in the field ; 

 but after the first cross it does not succeed. The two varieties do not seem to 

 amalgamate ; as in the same litter may be found a portion looking like true 

 pointers, while the rest resemble the setter. The dropper is generally a hardy, 

 useful dog of all work, and is specially good for snipe bogs, single-handed. 



