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: 
‘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- 
