FOX-HUNTING. 3 



whether mounted or pedestrian ; and the latter 

 have for some years past shown a keenness for and 

 appreciation of the sport which, though it sometimes 

 does not conduce to its advancement or consummation, 

 is not only remarkable, but also a healthy sign of its 

 continuance in the future. 



But the fact is that fox-hunting from the cream 

 of the cream of sportsmen described by " Nimrod," 

 to the humbler class immortalised by " Jorrocks " 

 spreads a vast amount of pleasure, satisfaction with 

 self, and goodwill towards others over a wide surface 

 of humanity. All classes enjoy it. The "good man 

 across country," proud of his skill prouder still of 

 his reputation, and anxious, sometimes too anxious, to 

 retain it perhaps derives the keenest enjoyment of 

 all, so long as all goes well ; but this important proviso 

 shows that his position is not so secure, as regards 

 happiness, as that of his humbler, less ambitious, or 

 less proficient brethren. A slight accident, a bad 

 start, a sudden turn of the hounds especially if in 

 favour of some distinguished rival on the other flank 



* 2 



