THE FOXHOUND. 61 



his are much more likely to stand work than the model legs 

 which constitute perfection in the eyes of most huntsmen, which 

 soon become " groggy," and then knuckle over. In all cases the 

 feet should be close, with the knuckles well up ; and if so, it is 

 not of much consequence whether they are quite round and cat- 

 like, or rather inclined to be long. 



The colour is not greatly to be regarded, but for choice the 

 black, white, and tan colour is the best. This is commonly 

 called the true hound colour ; but many people prefer some one 

 or other of the " pies," such as the red pie, blue pie, yellow pie, 

 grey pie, lemon pie, hare pie, or badger pie, in which the respec- 

 tive shades are blended with white. Whole colours are not 

 liked, and even black and tan without white is not generally 

 popular. The " blue mottle " is supposed to indicate a descent 

 from the Southern hound, and is often accompanied by a tender 

 nose. I have myself known several good examples of this last 

 combination, and in consequence have a leaning to it. Curiously 

 enough, however, they all had squeaky tongues, which would by 

 no means prove their descent from the old-fashioned hound. The 

 coat should be short, hard, and dense, but glossy. 



The stem is carried gaily over the back with a gentle curve, 

 and should taper to a point. There should be a fringe of hair on 

 the under side. 



As to symmetry, it is considerable in good specimens; and 

 what is called " quality " is highly regarded. 



The most desirable average height is 24 inches for dog hounds 

 and 22^ for bitches, but the height should vary according to the 

 country. A big hound will not do for hills, while a little one is 

 comparatively useless over deep arable flats. 



