BEATERS AND STOPS 229 



explained, they could have ' as much as they minded 

 to squelch.' The supplier of such liberal beer may 

 have meant well ; but the man who, after the 

 beaters have had a hard day, says, ' Good-night, 

 men ; you have done well/ and tells the keeper 

 to give them a pint of beer and a smoke, is thought 

 infinitely more of. 



It is a bad plan to make ammunition-bearers 

 of beaters, especially when partridge-driving : the 

 men have plenty to do to get along without any 

 handicap. But whenever there is any cartridge- 

 carrying to be done by beaters, I think it only 

 fair that the best beaters should have the first 

 chance. It is pleasant to see a sportsman carrying 

 his bag about till he can see * my man you know, 

 the old chap with the long corduroy gaiters.' 



Here are a few words, mainly for keepers. 

 Never become familiar with beaters to the extent 

 which gives them an impression of equality. Be 

 courteous, by all means, but never divest yourself 

 of that something which shows them that you are 

 their superior officer. I do not mean that you 

 should give an order to a beater after this fashion : 

 4 My dear Mr. So-and-so, would you be so kind, 

 if quite to your taste and convenience, to utilize 

 your stick for the purpose of beating the bushes 

 in your vicinity, rather than the undoubted power 

 of your linguistic charm ?' ' Beat with your sticks, 

 men, and not with your tongues,' serves the pur- 



