EULOGIUM ON SOMEIIVILE. 329 



and, when I differ from them, it is without de- 

 sign. Other methods, without doubt, there are, 

 to make the keeping of hounds much more ex- 

 pensive ; which, as I do not practise myself, I 

 shall not recommend to you : treated after the 

 manner here described, they will kill foxes, and 

 show you sport. I have answered all your ques- 

 tions as concisely as I have been able, and it has 

 been my constant endeavour to say no more than 

 I thought the subject required. The time may 

 come when more experienced sportsmen, and 

 abler pens, may do it greater j ustice ; till then, 

 accept the observations that I have made : take 

 them — read them — try them. There was a 

 time when I should readily have received the 

 information they give, imperfect as it may 

 be ; for experience is ever a slow teacher, and 

 I have had no other. With regard to books, 

 Somervile is the only author whom I have 

 found of any use on this subject. You will 

 admire the poet, and esteem the man ; yet I 

 am not certain that you will be always satisfied 

 with the lessons of the huntsman. Proud of 

 the authority, I have quoted from him as often 

 as it would suit your purpose ; and for your 

 sake have I braved the evident disadvantage 

 that attended it. I wish this elegant poet 



