GAME HAWKING 



271 



out of the sky, and the woodcock dropped like a stone towards 

 the very patch of bracken from which he had originally been 

 sprung. His pursuer, however, was close behind him, and long 

 ere he could reach his haven of refuge he was cut over stone- 

 dead in mid-air and fell at the falconer's feet. In another 



Tiercel and teal 



moment the hawk was upon him, and received the full crop she 

 had so well earned. 



Wild ducks and teal afford the best of sport, provided the 

 water is not too large and they can be driven out of it. Most 

 hawks will fly them readily, but ducks shift quickly from the 

 stoop, and will then take the air, when a fine high flight is 



