144 QUALITIES OF A GOOD HUNTSMAN. 



that most useful commodity, and lose their heads 

 entirely when giving way to passion. Excite- 

 ment and irritability are, however, almost allow- 

 able sometimes, when contraventions occur at 

 critical moments, vexatious enough to try the 

 patience of Job ; and I am inclined to think that 

 the exhibition of a little temper in the huntsmen 

 on these occasions has a beneficial effect on the 

 field, and conduces to keep up his authority. The 

 man who is entrusted with the management of a 

 pack of fox-hounds holds a very responsible situa- 

 tion ; and as all our sport depends upon his exer- 

 tions, he is, if fit to hold this position, entitled 

 to respect. Aut Casar aut nullus ought to be 

 his motto, which should exempt him from in- 

 terference from any quarter, even the Master's, 

 whilst hunting the hounds ; and as he will have 

 to bear all the blame when things go wrong, let 

 him have also all the credit when things go 

 well. 



To avail ourselves of huntsman's capabilities, 

 and to do him justice, he must be a free agent in 

 the field, with regard to finding and killing or 

 losing his fox. The Master may direct him where 

 to draw, and even on this point he ought to be 

 consulted ; but when the fox is found, all interfe- 

 rence should cease. I dislike even to see a horn 



