262 



THE FOX. 



ranks of people, 'tis then, that the little fellow 

 becomes dear to me, and shall always command my 

 protection and my good word. 



The fox requires no particular attention at 

 our hands, by way of keeping up the breed. 

 Only let us prevent poisoned food, and traps from 

 being placed in its runs ; and nothing more will 

 be asked from us. Its own peculiar habits, its 

 nocturnal industry, and its uncommon knack of 

 avoiding danger, will always enable it to support 

 itself in food, and to provide handsomely for a 

 numerous family, wherever it may be. To be sure 3 

 young and ill-natured farmers will possibly exclaim, 

 that the trampling of the horses in the rising corn- 

 fields, must always occasion a certain amount of 

 damage. But, experience shews, that this is not 

 the case : and the making of gaps in the hedges, 

 is unworthy of notice, as they consist of dead 

 wood ; and can easily be repaired, soon as the 

 arrival of spring shall announce the cessation of 

 rural amusements in the field. 



But, my pen, or my tongue, are ever on the 

 move, when hunting is the topic. I fancy that 

 I already tire the too indulgent reader. Wherefore, 

 I will bid him farewell : and should he chance 

 to be one of old Nimrod's genuine breed, may he 

 enjoy good health, good hounds, good horses, and 

 good temper. 



