1878—79.] 



THE MASONS OF MELTON. 



287 



for many a day I shall think of that honest form, as in its cling- 

 ing robe of blue it clambered back up the bank, like a bathing- 

 woman after her task is done. 



From Twyford to Lowesby is no great distance. In the 

 park hounds were only just saved from pursuit of a fresh fox, 

 and onwards still the chase proceeded. Baggrave was left just 

 on the right ; so was Hungerton ; and the course continued 

 between Keyham and Quenby Hall. No prettier hunting, no 

 more quiet skilful handling was seen in the run than took jilace 

 under Quenby Hall. By the time Mr. Carver's spinne}' was 

 reached, horses were galloping slowly and jumping rather 

 feebly. But the end was close at hand. With Scraptoft Holt 

 but a few fields on the right front, Firr caught a view of his 

 sinking foe, helped his hounds over a single plough, and in 

 another minute had him in hand. A thoroughly fine sporting 

 run, a good point, and a rare line of country, best conveys the 

 general verdict on the morning's sport. From Gartree Hill to 

 Owston Village is a straight four miles and a half. From 

 Owston Village to where the death took place is another seven 

 — and to have covered this distance in an hour and thirty-five 

 minutes conveys a notion of no mean j)ace. 





