284 THE NORTH STAFFORDSHIRE HOUNDS. 



much for fowls, geese, turkeys, etc., etc. ; and as this was 

 on a fairly liberal estimate of value, we do not think there 

 is ever much complaint as to the quantum of allowance. 



As to damage to crops, any M.F.H. can do a good 

 deal if he chooses, by setting a good example in the way 

 of avoiding seeds and wheat when riding to hounds, and 

 by enforcing this on his field, if need be, by precept as well 

 as example. In this matter we do not hesitate to say 

 that, in our opinion, the North Staffordshire Hunt occupies 

 a strong position. 



There is another small matter, but perhaps it is worth 

 mentioning, and it is this : in dealing with the farmer for 

 forage purchased from him, if possible make your bargain 

 with him yourself as to price, and when it comes to pay- 

 ing, pay promptly and send him your cheque direct 

 through the post, not through your groom. 



We do not want to be wearisome in dealing with this 

 part of our subject, important though we believe it to be ; 

 after all that can be said or written, the solution resolves 

 itself into the golden rule, "Do as you would be done by." 

 Treat the British farmer fairly and squarely. Let him see 

 that you mean to be his friend ; that you wish to enjoy 

 your sport, but at your own expense, and not at his ; that 

 you are ready to deal with him for whatever you want 

 and he can supply on fair terms ; and there will be no 

 friction between yourself and him, at any rate, and you 

 will have the satisfaction of feeling that you have made, 

 or kept, one more friend to fox-hunting. 



We have ventured to say so much on this well-worn 

 subject, because we believe that most of the unpleasant- 

 ness that may have arisen between farmers and hunting 

 men has been caused rather by thoughtlessness than from 

 any intention to ignore or neglect the farming interest ; 

 we believe the well-known lines — 



" For evil is wrought by want of thought 

 As much as by want of heart," 



to be very true ; and if any young sportsman who may 



