The Hunting Year 



wrinkles, which might cause serious trouble if 

 left to themselves, and to touch with a light 

 hand on some of those petty grievances about 

 which it is well for we others, if we know any- 

 thing of them, to be silent. 



Our huntsman, if he has had an anxious day, 

 has had a happy one. The judges, who have 

 been selected with great care, have fulfilled their 

 arduous duties to his satisfaction. They have 

 done more than that, they have pleased the 

 beaten, which is a difficult thing to do, especially 

 when a very good lot have been put forward as 

 has been the case this time. Then the accounts 

 from all over the country are cheering. The 

 farmers are all in good heart with the prospect 

 of an early and abundant harvest, and with his 

 hounds well forward in condition, he looks for- 

 ward to commencing the season in another three 

 weeks at the latest. So , as he turns into his garden 

 to seek his special friends, he feels that he can 

 face the good-natured criticism which is as much 

 a part of the day's work as the judging and the 

 luncheon and the speeches. 



He does not want much guidance in his search 

 12 



