Pink and Scarlet. By Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel Alderson. (W. Heinemann.)—Pink and
Scarlet is most distinctly a word in season. Colonel Alderson's theme is the adaptation of the knowledge acquired in the hunting field to the practice of war. No one doubts be is right for a moment, but whether the man who dons pink will be inclined to compare the various phases of the hunt to the handling of a squadron on the battle- field is doubtful. Of course the strong points that our author makes are these—the knowledge of the ground gained and rapid decision as to its possibilities, and the care of the horse. As to the former, alas ! no amount of hunting gives a rider in the Drakens- berg, say, a knowledge of what is coming ; this depends on another training, partly scientific and partly that of an intimate acquaintance and long experience with certain countries. Officers make mistakes which no countryman would make. We remem- ber a young fellow who was enjoying a rat hunt at a farm saying to us, "How interesting all this country stuff is." Did he realise, one wonders, that on his knowledge of farm buildings, of springs, and of the various objects that constitute cover, would one day depend his life and those of others ? Colonel Alderson's instructions as to well-fitting bridles, saddles, &c., are beautifully illustrated by photographs.
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