The Late Mr. W. Mortimer Si 



by members of the hunt. This plan was accordingly- 

 earned out, and a very pleasant function was celebrated. 

 The following is the inscription on the painting : — 



" This portrait of the late Tom Hills, nearly fifty years 

 huntsman to the Old Surrey Fox Hounds, painted by Sir 

 Francis Grant, was presented to William Mortimer, Esq., 

 by a few friends on commencing the thirtieth season of 

 his Mastership, 25 Oct., 1873." 



It is almost needless to mention that Mr. Mortimer 

 greatly valued this picture. He made a bright little 

 speech in thanking his friends for their kindness. " It is 

 difficult for me," he said, " to express my feelings, since 

 I realize that what has been said about me was not by 

 way of flattery or compliment, because my friends whom 

 I see around the room are those with whom I have been 

 accustomed to associate in the cause of fox-hunting for 

 thirty or forty years. It is a great satisfaction for me to 

 think that what little trouble I have experienced has been 

 appreciated by my friends, and that my mistakes — for 

 every person who takes on himself a public duty is liable 

 to make mistakes — are overlooked. As to the subject 

 of this picture, I need hardly say that I have a high 

 regard for the memory of Tom Hills. I have been 

 brought up as a pupil of his so far as hunting is con- 

 cerned, and have learned a great deal from him in that 

 respect." 



In concluding his speech Mr. Mortimer used these 

 words : "I hope that as long as I am Master of the Old 

 Surrey Fox Hounds, you will see plenty of good sport in 



