148 THE SHIFTS AND DOUBLES 



then approach them nearer, and encourage them 

 more ; leaving, however, at all times sufficient 

 room for them to turn, should they over-run the 

 scent. On high roads and dry paths, be always 

 doubtful of the scent, nor give them much en- 

 couragement ; but when a hit is made on either 

 side, you may halloo as much as you please, nor 

 can you then encoui^age your hounds too much. 

 A hare generally describes a circle as she runs ; 

 larger or less, according to her strength and the 

 openness of the country. In inclosures, and 

 where there is much cover, the circle is for the 

 most part so small, that it is a constant puzzle 

 to the hounds. They have a Gordian knot, in 

 that case, ever to unloose ; and though it may 

 afford matter of speculation to the philosopher, 

 it is always contrary to the wishes of the sports- 

 man. Such was the country I hunted in for 

 many years. 



" Huntsman ! her gait observe : if in wide rings 

 She wheel her mazy way, in the same round 

 Persisting still, she'll foil the beaten track ; 

 But if she fly, and with the fav'ring wind 

 Urge her bold course, less intricate thy task : 

 Push on thy pack." 



SOMERVILE. 



Besides running the foil, they frequently make 

 doubles, which is going forward to tread the same 



