THE HISTORY OF THE BELVOIR HUNT 



look after Mrs, Goodall, while Sir Thomas Whichcote pro- 

 mised to be responsible for the fortunes of young Will. This 

 promise, too, was well fulfilled, and the boy was educated at 

 Sir Thomas's expense, and afterwards trained in his stables, 

 till in time he rose, like his father, to be one of the finest 

 huntsmen of his day. Will the younger prospered exceed- 

 ingly in his calling, and on his death left behind him a good 

 competence. To the end of Sir Thomas's life the younger 

 Will was in the habit of writing to the master and friend to 

 whom he owed so much. 



This chapter may close fittingly with the graceful lines 

 which Mr. John Welby has written to the memory of the 

 great huntsman : — 



The First of May, 1859. 



Here let me rest awhile, my steed, 



Awhile review the past ; 

 And thoughts recall which in our need 



We find too seldom last. 



To-day again a lesson's taught 



Alike to grave and gay, 

 That earthly hopes are things of nought — 



It is not always May. 



How soft the air ! How shines around 



Nature in best array ! 

 The scene with opening beauties crown'd, 



For 'tis the first of May. 



The first of May I — a name which brings 



A freshness and a joy, 

 Recalling dreamy shades of things 



Untrammelled by alloy. 



Upon the neck I drop the rein : 



Blithe is the first of May ; 

 Alas ! how bitter is the pain 



That dims this genial day. 



Listen ! from Knipton's ivied fane, 



Low issuing thro' the dell ; 

 With measured toll again — again 



Sounds the sad passing bell. 

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