THE COMPLETE FOXHUNTER.*
THE bunting novice will probably derive a good deal of instruction and amusement from this book, although to the experienced foxhunter it will be a disappointment. Mr. Richardson, as is well known, is the hunting editor of the Field. His knowledge is wide, and all that be has to say impresses the reader with the soundness of his judgment. But unfortunately so much has been written about hunting that a pen of exceptional skill or charm is needed to treat of so many trite topics in a fresh manner. The opening chapters are historical, but add little to what is known about the early days of foxhunting. Nor do we suppose that researches will unearth much new matter. When we come to the modern conditions of bunting, it is doubtless hard to avoid the commonplace, and so we have the familiar remarks about barbed wire, game preservation, bad foxes, mange, crowds in fashionable countries, subscriptions, and capping. When Mr. Richardson gives us his own personal experiences our interest at once revives. He has hunted with packs in many parts of England, and we often wish he would draw more on his memory, as he does in the last chapter called "Harriers and Beagles," and rely less for facts upon such well-known sources as Baily's Hunting Directory. The chapter on bunting localities opens with a statement which is almost obvious :— " It is an undoubted fact that the bunting countries of England vary in what may almost be called an extraordinary manner, &c." Yet we can hardly believe that there are many fox- hunters who "are unaware of the great physical differences which exist between one country and another." The same chapter, nevertheless, goes on to give much practical informa- tion. The lack of freshness about the book will not strike those who are unfamiliar with hunting literature, and it would make a delightful present for a youth with suitable tastes. The illustrations consist of photographs mostly of heunds, huntsmen, and scenes in the field, some of which are very good as photographs go. There are also four small coloured reproductions from Alken's prints.
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