244 



THE FOX, 



poultry, from the majestic swan to the little bantam, 

 can afford exercise and amusement to all ranks of 

 people ; — aye, even to ladies of high degree and 

 eminent endowments. 



I well remember the day, when half a dozen 

 ladies, all dressed in scarlet habits, and mounted 

 on prancing steeds, would join the hunt, and show 

 what female courage could effect. More than once, 

 in the day's run, have I myself dismounted, and 

 torn away the opposing hedge- stake from before 

 them, to save mishap. 



In this last character of affording amusement, 

 Reynard is absolutely invaluable to those who duly 

 estimate a warlike breed of horses, and resolute 

 riders, who, in the field of Nimrod, commence 

 a career which forms them for after deeds of intre- 

 pidity and patriotism in the warlike ranks of Mars. 



Moreover, the chase of Reynard, restores health 

 to convalescents, — gives pastime to the gentry, and 

 exercise to the multitude in every direction. 



It is generally allowed, that two armies drawn up 

 in battle array, present a splendid and a grand 

 appearance. But, when we reflect, that, they are 

 assembled on the plains of death, — ready at a 

 moment's warning, to commence the work of 

 mutual slaughter; — 0 then it is, that sorrow fills 

 the pitying breast ; and there is no charm left 



