THE FOX 



As an instance of this, while walking some years ago along a Hamp- 

 shire lane in June, my attention was attracted by the unusual crowing 

 of a cock Pheasant among some tall grass in a meadow on the other 

 side of the hedge. On making my way through a gap I saw a Fox 

 some thirty yards away from the bird, circling around his prey yet 

 without appearing to notice it. The Pheasant, although quite aware of 

 his enemy's presence, was making no attempt to escape, and I think the 

 Fox was trying to approach near enough for a sudden spring, when 

 they both saw me and each made off. 





49 



