SPRAIN or STRAIN,—is a preternatural extension, and forcible elongation, of the tendons, beyond the power of immediately recovering their previous elasticity; or a sudden twist of some particular joint, by which the ligamentary junction sustains an injury, and produces lameness. Whenever they happen in the hip, stifle, round-bone, or shoulder, they then become serious considerations; the injured parts being seated too deep for the effect of external applications. In such cases it is seldom of use to lose time, and encounter disappointment, by persevering stimulants; time and rest constitute the best foundation for permanent relief. Horses having encountered such accidents, should be turned out in a still and quiet pasture, where they may be free from alarm and disturbance; and this should be adopted before any stiffness is brought upon the joint, by too long standing in one position; which they mostly do, when confined in a stable as invalids. When at unrestrained liberty, it is natural to conclude, he adapts the gentleness of his motion to the state of his case, and exerts himself no more than a proper respect to his own safety may render secure. It is a self-evident fact, that a restoration of elasticity or strength of the part, is more likely to be obtained by rest, and the efforts of nature, than any superficial or topical applications that can be made.
,—is a preternatural extension, and forcible elongation, of the tendons, beyond the power of immediately recovering their previous elasticity; or a sudden twist of some particular joint, by which the ligamentary junction sustains an injury, and produces lameness. Whenever they happen in the hip, stifle, round-bone, or shoulder, they then become serious considerations; the injured parts being seated too deep for the effect of external applications. In such cases it is seldom of use to lose time, and encounter disappointment, by persevering stimulants; time and rest constitute the best foundation for permanent relief. Horses having encountered such accidents, should be turned out in a still and quiet pasture, where they may be free from alarm and disturbance; and this should be adopted before any stiffness is brought upon the joint, by too long standing in one position; which they mostly do, when confined in a stable as invalids. When at unrestrained liberty, it is natural to conclude, he adapts the gentleness of his motion to the state of his case, and exerts himself no more than a proper respect to his own safety may render secure. It is a self-evident fact, that a restoration of elasticity or strength of the part, is more likely to be obtained by rest, and the efforts of nature, than any superficial or topical applications that can be made.
Strains(orLAMENESS) in the shoulder require nice investigation to discriminate between such as arise from accident, rheumatic affection, or chest-foundering. It is remarked, that when a horse has sustained a severe injury in the shoulder, by wrench, slip, twist, short turn, or any other accident, the pain prevents him from bringing the leg on that side forward, in a parallel line, or in an equal degree with the other; which being sound, is much more firmly set to the ground, with an evident intent to save from pain the side that is lame. When a horse in this situation stands still, the leg of the lame shoulder is almost invariably placed before the other; and if he is trotted in hand, he generally brings forward the leg of the shoulder affected with a kind of circular sweep, and not in a direct line: if any attempt is made to turn himshorton thelameside, he instantly dreads it, and becomes almost repugnant to the exertion: when compelled to make it, he will almost sink on the lame side, to support himself entirely on the sound one.
Bleedingshould in such accidents immediately precede every other consideration; it unloads the vessels, prevents local stagnation, and sometimes a general stiffness of the quarter in which the injury has been sustained. Where either the season of the year prevents, or an opportunity to turn out cannot be obtained, the only alternative, hot fomentations,and stimulative embrocations, must be adopted. In strains of the hip, the horse in general draws his leg after him with a painful reluctance; and if impelled to atrot, is observed to drop upon his heel. If the injury is in the stifle, by treading on the toe, his motion is a kind ofhopwith the side affected. Strains of the hock are easily discovered, by a sort of limping twist in that joint at every motion of the leg. Lamenesses of thehip,stifle, andhock, are more likely to be assisted by external applications, judiciously prescribed, than those which are more deeply seated.
The ligamentary junction of the pastern joints are sometimes greatly weakened by incessant work and little rest; in unerring proof of which, they frequently make suddendrops, as if falling to the ground. The knees of many are affected in the same way, and overhang the shank-bone and fetlock-joint; the moment a tendency to which is perceived, any horse should be turned out to enjoy the rest he is so individually entitled to, for want of which salutary and humane attention, very many good and useful horses have been completely ruined and destroyed. There is no part of a horse more liable to strains, than the back sinews of the forelegs; they are materially concerned in every description of labour, and are always in proportional danger. Whenever these happen, there is no difficulty in making the discovery; there is an evidentenlargement, with inflammatory tension; and if one leg only is affected, it is generally placed before the other, and rather upon the toe. In slight cases of this kind, fomentations of hot vinegar, and strengthening embrocations, assisted by rest, may produce a restoration; but, in general practice, without blistering, firing, or both, a permanent cure is seldom obtained.
SPUR—is the well-known weapon with which the heel of the horseman is armed to enforce his authority; and which the well-broke horse will always instantly obey.
—is the well-known weapon with which the heel of the horseman is armed to enforce his authority; and which the well-broke horse will always instantly obey.
STABLE.—Stables are the receptacles for horses in general, and are of very different descriptions; not only in respect to the various sorts of horses for which they are intended, but the improved mode of construction, and the numerous conveniencies they are now made to contain. As horses were never in such high estimation, or of such intrinsic worth, as at the present moment, so never was so much money expended upon their preservation. There can be no doubt, but the health and condition of valuable horses, may depend much upon the situation and structure of the stable; and although every person will appropriate the size of the stable, and the number of stalls, to their own wants, yet there are certain judicious rules, and desirable conveniencies, which should admit of nodeviation. Whether a stable consists of two stalls, four, or six, it may be rendered equally uniform, and confidently replete with every thing that can possibly be required.
.—Stables are the receptacles for horses in general, and are of very different descriptions; not only in respect to the various sorts of horses for which they are intended, but the improved mode of construction, and the numerous conveniencies they are now made to contain. As horses were never in such high estimation, or of such intrinsic worth, as at the present moment, so never was so much money expended upon their preservation. There can be no doubt, but the health and condition of valuable horses, may depend much upon the situation and structure of the stable; and although every person will appropriate the size of the stable, and the number of stalls, to their own wants, yet there are certain judicious rules, and desirable conveniencies, which should admit of nodeviation. Whether a stable consists of two stalls, four, or six, it may be rendered equally uniform, and confidently replete with every thing that can possibly be required.
It is an established opinion, that a building ofBRICK(lined or not lined with deal) is preferable toSTONEfor the purpose; the former beingdry, and always in the same state: thelatteris influenced, or acted upon, by the changes of weather; and in a hazy atmosphere, generallydamp; and in constant (or continued) rains, the walls are frequently streaming withwater. This, however, depends much upon the aspect to which they are erected; a circumstance not always sufficiently attended to, till it is found too late to repent. Stables are paved withbricks,clinkers,flints,pebbles, orstone, as may best correspond with the conveniences of the country in which they are erected, and where, perhaps, some of those articles are difficult to obtain. Stalls should never be less thansixfeet wide; nor the stable less thanninefeet high:eightfeet in the clear should be allowed from the heels of the horse to the wall behind him; and iron hay-racks are preferable to wood, as the latter (wherever spirited horses stand) are always in want of repair. No stables can be called good, unless they have proper rooms annexed for the reception ofSADDLES,BRIDLES,HORSE CLOTHS, and every article necessary to the proper support of such an establishment; eachof those become more perishable amidst the nocturnal steam of the horses than by daily use.
Experience has demonstrated the advantages of general cleanliness, temperate air, (according to the season,) and regular exercise: to the want of these, in part, or all, may be attributed the ills atINNSandLIVERY STABLES, as well as the fashionable increase of Veterinarians. Upon entering the stables of these public receptacles, (particularly if the door has been a few minutes closed,) the olfactory sensations are instantly assailed by such a profusion of volatile effluvia, as to extract moisture from the eyes, in opposition to every endeavour made to restrain it. Here stand rows of poor patient animals, absolutely fumigated with the perspirative transpiration of their own bodies, broiling withheat, and panting withthirst, in a degree beyond the temperature of a common hot-house, in the severity of the winter season. Each horse is observed to stand upon a load of litter (clean at top, and rotten underneath) very little inferior to a commoncucumber-bedin heigth, with all theadvantagesof equalwarmthfrom the dungbelow!
In this unexaggerated state stand hundreds within the environs of the Metropolis; their owners the complete dupes ofignorance,indiscretion, andimposition; the animals themselves in a constantstate of languid perspiration, and bodily debility: deprived the comforts of pure air, and regular exercise, they become dull, sluggish, and stupid, as if conscious of, and depressed with, their almost perpetual imprisonment. All this erroneous mode of treatment instantly affects the eye of experimental observation. The carcase seems an incongruous accumulation, evidently full, and unnaturally overloaded, for want of gentle motion, and general friction; the legs become swelled, stiff, and tumefied; and, sooner or later, terminates incracks,scratches,grease, or some more vexatious disorder. Thehoofs, by being constantly fixed in a certain degree of heat, begin to contrast, and get narrow at the heels, holding forth thepleasingpromise of hoof-bound lameness. The eyes, from a constant watry discharge, give proof of habitual weakness; the lassitude of the body, the heat of the mouth, the general gloom, and every corresponding circumstance, seems to display a frame the reverse of those whose health is preserved, and condition promoted, by a system of discipline opposite in practice, and different in effect. SeeGroom.
STAG, or RED DEER.—TheSTAGandHINDare themaleandfemaleof this tribe, as theBUCKandDOEare of thefallowdeer. The latter are mostly the natives of parks, and bred for domestic purposes, producing venison for the table; the former are the majestic inhabitants of those extensiveand sequestered tracts calledFORESTSandCHACES, where they are preserved as more peculiarly appropriated to the pleasures of the chase, in which even hisMajesty, with his hunting retinue, condescends to engage. TheSTAG, individually surveyed, is one of the grandest and most stately figures in the animal creation; his very appearance instantly exciting attention and admiration. Naturally disposed to solitude, he never obtrudes upon the haunt of man, but revels in the remote and obscure shades of abstrusity. When caught sight of amidst the umbrageous stillness of his abode, the grandeur, lofty look, and commanding aspect, of his first survey, cannot be encountered without the most aweful and impressive sensations. With ample power to oppose, he has pliability to submit, and, after a few moments interview, deliberately retires to his protecting covert, seemingly moresurprizedthanalarmedat the sight of theHUMAN SPECIES.
—TheSTAGandHINDare themaleandfemaleof this tribe, as theBUCKandDOEare of thefallowdeer. The latter are mostly the natives of parks, and bred for domestic purposes, producing venison for the table; the former are the majestic inhabitants of those extensiveand sequestered tracts calledFORESTSandCHACES, where they are preserved as more peculiarly appropriated to the pleasures of the chase, in which even hisMajesty, with his hunting retinue, condescends to engage. TheSTAG, individually surveyed, is one of the grandest and most stately figures in the animal creation; his very appearance instantly exciting attention and admiration. Naturally disposed to solitude, he never obtrudes upon the haunt of man, but revels in the remote and obscure shades of abstrusity. When caught sight of amidst the umbrageous stillness of his abode, the grandeur, lofty look, and commanding aspect, of his first survey, cannot be encountered without the most aweful and impressive sensations. With ample power to oppose, he has pliability to submit, and, after a few moments interview, deliberately retires to his protecting covert, seemingly moresurprizedthanalarmedat the sight of theHUMAN SPECIES.
In the dignity of his deportment he stands unrivalled, and may, with allegorical propriety, be considered the hereditaryMONARCHof theWOODS, as every other animal is observed to give way upon his approach. In his peaceable and undisturbed retirement, he is perfectly tranquil and inoffensive, displaying no antipathy or opposition to those who come not inhostilityto him. His form is the most sublime and beautiful that can possibly be conceived;the elegance of his figure, the commanding effect of his stature, the flexibility of his frame, the elasticity of his limbs, the velocity of his motion, and the proportional immensity of his strength, in addition to the impression made upon the mind by the magnific grandeur of the antlers, branching from his brow, all seem uniformly calculated to render him an object of the most serious and pleasing attraction.
TheRED DEER, formerly so plentiful to be found in different remote parts ofEngland, the Highlands ofScotland, and the Lake of Killarney, inIreland, are greatly reduced, and but very rarely to be found in a wild and unpreserved state in either. This must of course be attributed to the more advantageous distribution and cultivation of land, and the improved state of every country.Stags, orHINDS, were then foundsingly, and hunted or pursued by those who happened to find them; but now in the Forest of Windsor, and the New Forest in Hampshire, where they are bred and protected for theROYAL CHASE, they assemble together; and upon Ascot Heath, near Swinley Lodge, (the official residence of the Master of his Majesty's Stag Hounds,) may be seen the largest herd in the King's dominions.
The colour of bothSTAGandHINDis a dingy red, with darker tints about the eyes and mouth: downthe upper part of the neck, and over the points of the shoulders, is a shade of dark brown, bordering upon black: the countenance is commandingly expressive; the eye beautifully brilliant, even to poetic celebrity; and his senses ofsmellingandhearingequal to any animal of this country. When in the least alarmed, his position is the most majestic; he raises his head to the highest pitch, erects his ears, swells his neck, extends his nostrils, and snuffs the air, as if in curious and impatient investigation of the cause by which it was occasioned. Let this be what it may, he never takes to sudden flight, without first measuring, by hiseyeandear, the magnitude of the danger, and proceeds accordingly. If dogs are not of the party, men, cattle, or carriages, seem to give him little or no concern; for, after turning twice or thrice, to take a repeated survey with a kind of confused admiration, he moves off very deliberately, without any alarming sensation.
The season for copulation with the deer tribe (see "Rutting Time") begins at the latter end of August and beginning of September, and terminates in the beginning or middle of October; depending, in that respect, a little upon the state of the season, and the ages of the different head of deer; those of two and three years old being backwarder, of course extending the time beyond those who are older. From the moment of conceptionwith the hind, to the time of parturition, is nearly nine lunar months; as they produce in the last week inMay, or one of the two first inJune. Immediately after impregnation, she separates herself from theSTAG; no intercourse takes place; even common association ceases; and nothing during the period of gestation ensues, but mutual and marked indifference. The hind is seldom or ever known to produce more than one, (which is called aCALF:) this she deposits in the most remote, sequestered, and best sheltered spot to be procured, for the purpose of secretion from its numerous enemies, amongst whom there is none more determined or malicious than the masculine occasion of its existence, even the sire himself. Mysterious as this may appear, it is an unexaggerated fact; and the dam, perfectly conscious of the stag's unnatural propensity, is more industrious to conceal the calf's retreat from him, than the aggregate of its other enemies.
TheCALF, when once it is of strength sufficient to accompany its dam, never leaves her side during the first summer; and the ensuing winter, none but theHINDS, and malesundera year old, remain together; the annual separation between theSTAGSandHINDSinvariably taking place as before described. During the months of infancy, the courage of the dam, in defence of her offspring, is equal to any maternal affection of our own species;she opposes every force, encounters every enemy, exposes herself to every danger, and hazards her own life to insure the safety of her young. The hind has but little protection upon the score of self-preservation, nature having left her without horns, those useful and ornamental weapons with which the stag is so powerfully armed. The first year the male has no horns; the second they are straight, andsingle; the third, they shewtwobranches; the fourth,three; the fifth,four; and the sixth,five; when the stag is reckoned complete, and at his full growth: notwithstanding this, the antlers continue to increase till there aresixorsevenon each side; and though the age of the deer is mostly ascertained by the number, yet it is not always certain, but is more nicely to be depended on from the thickness and size of the trunk or body by which they are sustained.
These horns, enormous as they appear, are shedannually, which happens in the latter end ofFebruary, or during the month ofMarch; of which there is a most perfect regeneration before the commencement of theRUTTING TIME, when they fight for the hind with the most determined and incredible ferocity. After the season ofrutting, the stags having been found too weak to stand long before the hounds, the operation of castration was adopted; and the stag thus deprived of the means of propagation, (by the loss of the testes,) feelingno stimulative propensity to copulate, is never debilitated, but always ready for the field, and affordsrunsof great duration. Thus operated upon, they are then calledHEAVIERS; and it is a remarkable fact, that if a stag is castrated while his horns (alias antlers) are in a state of perfection, they will never exfoliate: on the contrary, if the operation is performed when the head isbare, the horns willneverreturn.
STAG,—the sporting term for a youngGAME COCKduring his second year. For the whole of the first year, he is called achicken; from which time to the completion of the second, he is aSTAG; and from thence forward, aCOCK. In regular matches and mains for considerable sums of money, very few are brought to Pit before they are of that age; unless it is made, and so agreed on both sides, in which case it is called a stag main, or main of stags. SeeCocking,Game Cock, andCock-pit Royal.
,—the sporting term for a youngGAME COCKduring his second year. For the whole of the first year, he is called achicken; from which time to the completion of the second, he is aSTAG; and from thence forward, aCOCK. In regular matches and mains for considerable sums of money, very few are brought to Pit before they are of that age; unless it is made, and so agreed on both sides, in which case it is called a stag main, or main of stags. SeeCocking,Game Cock, andCock-pit Royal.
STAG-EVIL—is a disorder of the most distressing kind, to which horses of the draught kind are more particularly subject: it partakes of the paralytic stroke and spasmodic affection, coming on suddenly, without the least previous indication of approaching disease. The muscles become so instantaneously contracted, that the head is raised to its utmost heigth, the jaws are fixed, the neck stiffand immoveable, the eyes are turned upwards, leaving only the whites to be seen; the palpitations of the heart are exceedingly violent, and the laborious heavings of the flank incessant. This disorder, difficult as it is in its cause to define, is always more or less dangerous, in proportion to the mildness or severity of the attack. If it proceeds from a profuse flux ofbloodto theBRAIN, in consequence of too great and powerful exertions, plentiful bleeding, and nervous stimulants, will be the most expeditious and likely means to relieve.
—is a disorder of the most distressing kind, to which horses of the draught kind are more particularly subject: it partakes of the paralytic stroke and spasmodic affection, coming on suddenly, without the least previous indication of approaching disease. The muscles become so instantaneously contracted, that the head is raised to its utmost heigth, the jaws are fixed, the neck stiffand immoveable, the eyes are turned upwards, leaving only the whites to be seen; the palpitations of the heart are exceedingly violent, and the laborious heavings of the flank incessant. This disorder, difficult as it is in its cause to define, is always more or less dangerous, in proportion to the mildness or severity of the attack. If it proceeds from a profuse flux ofbloodto theBRAIN, in consequence of too great and powerful exertions, plentiful bleeding, and nervous stimulants, will be the most expeditious and likely means to relieve.
When its symptoms are so exceedingly severe and alarming, that the jaws are locked, and no medicines can be administered by theMOUTH, recourse must be had tocollateralaids. Strong hot fomentations, with a decoction from the most fragrant aromatic garden herbs, under thejaws, behind theears, and both sides thethroat, followed by fumigations frommyrrh,ammoniacum, andassafœtida, grossly powdered, and sprinkled upon a hot iron, or fire-shovel, held below thenostrils; glysters of gruel, in whichvalerian roothas been boiled, andassafœtidadissolved, with an addition ofliquid laudanumandolive oilto each, and repeatedly frequently; are the only means, properly persevered in, that can afford any hope or expectation of success. These exertions are in general too much trouble for the lower order of the Veterinary tribe, who fly to theirfavouriteandcontemptibleintroduction of aROWEL, many hours before which can become productive in its effect, death closes the scene, and relieves the subject from its accumulated misery.
STAGGERS.—This is likewise a disorder of the head, to which horses of the same description are constantly liable, bearing in many respects no distant affinity to the former; for although it cannot be deemed the very same disease, yet, as it is known to derive its origin from the same cause, it is evidently entitled to rank in the same class.Bracken, who speaks of it with more scientific and professional precision than any writer before or since, assimilates it to theapoplexyandepilepsyof the human frame, and enters into an anatomical disquisition of many pages to justify his opinion. He most judiciously attributes it to its proper and only cause, a plethoric state of the body; and that by the preternatural distension of all the vessels, the blood is more forcibly propelled upon the brain, from whence inflammation (in a greater or less degree) consequently ensues; making the following remark, to which every experienced practitioner will yield his unqualified approbation.
.—This is likewise a disorder of the head, to which horses of the same description are constantly liable, bearing in many respects no distant affinity to the former; for although it cannot be deemed the very same disease, yet, as it is known to derive its origin from the same cause, it is evidently entitled to rank in the same class.Bracken, who speaks of it with more scientific and professional precision than any writer before or since, assimilates it to theapoplexyandepilepsyof the human frame, and enters into an anatomical disquisition of many pages to justify his opinion. He most judiciously attributes it to its proper and only cause, a plethoric state of the body; and that by the preternatural distension of all the vessels, the blood is more forcibly propelled upon the brain, from whence inflammation (in a greater or less degree) consequently ensues; making the following remark, to which every experienced practitioner will yield his unqualified approbation.
"That where one creature dies of a distempered brain from the loss oftoo muchblood, there aretwentyliveslostfor want of taking away asufficientquantity." In direct conformity with the opinion ofBrackenupon the subject ofREPLETION, maybe quoted a plain and true, but less scientific remark ofCaptain Burdon, in hisPocket Farrier; who, for want of more polished terms, and technical phraseology, thus expresses himself: "Don't let your horse stand too long without exercise; it fills his belly too full of meat, and his veins too full of blood; and from hence the staggers, and many other distempers, proceed."
Admitting the affinity between theDISEASES, as lethargy, or sleeping-evil, falling-evil, or convulsions, frenzy and madness, stag-evil, or staggers, all practitioners consider themindividuallya species ofAPOPLEXY, originating in nearly the same cause, and to be relieved only by the same means. Under which conjunctive authority, plentiful bleedings, repeated stimulative glysters, and internally, assafœtida, camphor, valerian, castor, and such other ingredients as powerfully act upon the nervous system, constitute the whole that can with consistency be introduced in all cases of a similar description.
STAG-HUNTING—is one of the most rapturous and enchanting pursuits within the privilege or power of the human frame and mind to enjoy. AsHUNTING, in its general sense, is known to comprise an imaginary view of different kinds under that concise term, so various remarks will be found uponeach, under the heads ofChase,Fox-Hunting,Harriers, andHunting; rendering unnecessary the introduction ofnew, or repetition offormermatter, more than what may strictly appertain to the distinct sport now before us.
—is one of the most rapturous and enchanting pursuits within the privilege or power of the human frame and mind to enjoy. AsHUNTING, in its general sense, is known to comprise an imaginary view of different kinds under that concise term, so various remarks will be found uponeach, under the heads ofChase,Fox-Hunting,Harriers, andHunting; rendering unnecessary the introduction ofnew, or repetition offormermatter, more than what may strictly appertain to the distinct sport now before us.
Opposite opinions have always been entertained by the advocates for each particular kind of chase, as may have proved most applicable and convenient to their situation, occasions, residence, and time of life. That every description ofHUNTINGhas its proportional attraction to its distinct and different votaries is well known; but the constant struggle for superiority in vindication of theirrespective sports, has ever been between those who huntFOXand those who huntSTAG; each being equally violent in defence of the cause his private or personal reasons prompt him to espouse.Mr. Daniel, in his "Rural Sports," when animadverting upon theSTAG, makes the following remarks: "At the present day, as an object of chase to the sportsman, the stag requires but cursory mention: those, indeed, who are fond of pomp and parade in hunting, will not accede to this opinion; but the only mode in which this chase can recommend itself to therealsportsman, is, when the deer is looked for, and found, like other game which hounds pursue. At present very few hounds, except those of the royal establishment, are kept exclusively for this amusement; and were theKingonce to see a fox well found, and killed handsomely, he would, in all,probability, give a decided preference in favour of fox-hounds; for what a marked difference is there between conveying, in a covered cart, an animal, nearly as big as the horse that draws it, to a particular spot, where he is liberated, and cheerly riding to the covert side with all the ecstacy of hope and expectation!"
After quoting a few lines of beautiful imagery from the poetic sublime ofSomervile, descriptive of throwing off, the drag, the unkenneling, and breaking covert with fox-hounds, he proceeds thus: "The most impassioned stag-hunter must confess, that no part of his chase admits of such description. The only variety he can fairly expect, depends upon the wind and the temper of the deer, who, by being either sulky, or not in condition to maintain a contest with the hounds, (to whom he leaves a burning scent, that gives them no trouble in the pursuit,) shortens or extends his gallop; but there is none of the enthusiasm of hunting, which the sportsman feels, when he is following an animal, upon whose own exertions of speed and craftiness his life is staked; and where no stoppages, but the checks arising from the two sources above mentioned, intervene."
Without the most distant intent of endeavouring to depreciate the noble, exhilarating, delightful, and universally admitted excellence ofFOX-HUNTING,(of which, by the bye, no adequate description can issue from the pen,) such few remarks may be made, as will display the sport ofSTAG-HUNTINGin a different point of view to that in which the writer just mentioned has been pleased to place the picture; and probably rescue it from any little stigma ofdisgrace, orinferiority, which his promulgated opinion may have stamped upon the canvass. There is positively no instance in which the philosophic decision ofSir Roger de Coverley("much may be said on both sides") could have been more strictly applicable, or more truly verified, than upon the present occasion. The candid, judicious and experienced sportsman will readily admit, that each retains its attractions too powerful to resist, as well as some inconveniencies impossible to remove: these, however, are reconcileable to the modification of those whose motives induce them to engage in either.
Previous to the recital of a chase with theSTAG-HOUNDS, a few preparatory and comparative remarks are due to the observations already quoted from the justly popular work ofMr. Daniel. That there are but "few establishments" of the kind is certainly true, and for a most substantial reason; if they were numerous, the question would instantly present itself, fromwhenceare they to be supplied withGAME? The idea of "theKing'sgiving the preference toFOX-HUNTING, if he had once seen a fox wellfound, andkilledhandsomely," is an entirenew thought; and affords immediate mental reference to the degradation ofMAJESTIC DIGNITY, should it ever be found making itsdreary waythrough thebushy bramblesof aBEECHEN WOODtwo or three miles in length, following the chase by the reverberating sounds of distant holloas! but without thesightorsoundof a single hound. This is a constantly occurring trait inFOX-HUNTING, constituting no small drawback on its boastedperfection.
Whichever kind of chase is pursued, the ultimatum of enjoyment is much the same; horses, hounds, air, exercise, health, society, and exhilaration, constitute the aggregate: andTIME, which, to the opulent and independent, seems oftriflingvalue, is to the scientific inquisitant, or professional practitioner, neither more nor less than aLIFE ESTATE, no part of which should bewastedor squandered away. The former class, in general, are industriously engaged inkillingtime: the latter, who know and feel its worth, are as constantly employed in its preservation. The loss of time in the enjoyment of the two chases, is nearly or fullhalfbetween the one and the other: this is a circumstance, however, not likely to attract theseriousattention of the gentleman who has thus attacked the "pompandparade" of hunting theSTAG; for as a clerical character, he had, of course, all the week upon his hands, beingparticularlyengaged only onA SUNDAY. To one of this description, who has most of his time tokill, and very little to employ, a long and dreary day through the gloomy coverts of a dirty country, without asingle challenge, or one consolatorychopof drag, must prove a scene of the most enchanting enjoyment; and in the very zenith ofexultation, it must be acknowledged by professed andenergeticFOX-HUNTERS, that riding thirty or forty miles in wet and dirt, (replete with alternate hope, suspense, and expectation,) to enjoy the supreme happiness of repeated disappointments, terminating with ablank day, is equal, if not superior, to aSTAG HUNTof even the first description.
Stag houndsare very rarely kept, and the sport but little known in many parts of the kingdom: those of the most celebrity are the Royal Establishment upon Ascot Heath, in Windsor Forest, (see "King's Hounds;") the Earl of Derby's, near the Downs, in Surrey; and the Subscription Pack near Enfield Chace. The greatest inducement to hunt with either of which, is, the invariablecertaintyofsport, that first object of desirable attainment, not to be insured with hounds of a different description; the great gratification of going away with the pack, and covering a scope of country, without perpetual interruption from frequent intervening coverts, where checks, faults, delays, and a repetition ofwood riding, so often ensue. Stag-hunting, indifferently as it is spoken of by some, is toosevereandarduousfor others to pursue: laborious as it is to theHORSE, it is in many cases not less so to theRIDER: difficulties occur which require great exertions in one, and fortitude in the other, to surmount, and none but those can lay at all by the side of the hounds.
Rapturously transporting as is the moment of meeting and throwing off with fox hounds, no less so is the awefully impressive prelude to turning out the deer. The scene is affectingly grand, far beyond the descriptive power of the pen, and can only be seen, to be perfectly understood. Unless an outlying deer is drawn for, and found in the neighbouring woods, as is sometimes the case, aSTAG,HIND, orHEAVIER, is carted from the paddocks of his Majesty at Swinley Lodge, (where they are previously and properly fed for the chase,) and brought at a certain hour, (ten o'clock in the morning,) to the place appointed, of which the surrounding neighbourhood have been sufficiently informed. At the distance of a quarter or half a mile from the covered convenience containing the deer, are the hounds, surrounded by the Huntsman and his assistants, (called Yeoman-Prickers,) in scarlet and gold; a part of these having French horns, and upon which they must be good performers.
In a very short time after the expiration of the hour agreed on, hisMajestyis seen to approach,attended by theMasterof theHorse, and Equerries in waiting; it being the official duty of theMasterof theStag-Houndsto be withthem, and ready to receive his Majesty when he arrives. So soon as his Majesty resigns his hack, and is remounted for the chase, the Huntsman receives an injunctive signal from the Master of the Hounds to liberate the deer. The moment which is obeyed, the usuallaw, amounting to ten minutes, (more or less,) is allowed for hisgoing way: during this interval the sonorous strains of theHORNS, the musical melodious echo of theHOUNDS, the mutual gratulations of so distinguished an assemblage, and the condescending kindness and affability of theSovereignto the loyal subjects who love and surround him, is a repast too rich, a treat too luxurious, for the side of a fox-hunting covert to be brought into the least successful similitude.
The anxious crisis thus arrived, and every bosom glowing with emulative inspiration, a single aspiration of acquiescence, and a removal of the horse who heads the leading hound, give a loose to thebodyof thePACK; and superlatively happy he who can lay the nearest to them. Upon theDEER'Sgoing off from the cart, two of theYEOMAN-PRICKERSstart likewise, in such parallel directions to therightandleft, as not to lose sight of the line he takes so long as they can keep him inview; by which means they get five or six miles forward to assist instoppingthehoundsat any particular point where they happen to run up to them: and if it was not for this prudent and necessary precaution, half ortwo thirdsof the horsemen would never see the hounds again in the course of the day.
The joyous burst, and determined velocity of every hound, followed by upwards of a hundred horsemen, all in action at a single view; the spot embellished, or rather variegated, with carriages containing ladies, who come to enjoy the ceremony ofturning out; and the emulative exertions ofHORSES,HOUNDS, andMEN; afford a blaze of sporting brilliancy beyond the power of the utmost mental fertility to describe. At this moment of rapturous exultation only it is, that the kind of horse indispensibly necessary for this particular chase can be ascertained; for out of a hundred and twenty, thirty, forty, or a hundred and fifty horsemen,sevenoreightonly shall lay any where near, or within a hundred yards of the hounds; for the longer the burst, the more the slow-going horsestail; so that when the hounds arestoptupon the heath, or in an open country, by the few whoare up, lines of horsemen are seen behind, more than a mile in length, getting forward in a variety of directions, bearing no inapplicable affinity to various teams ofwild duckscrossing from one country to another. These horses, to whom it is all labour, are so distrest even with thefirst burst, that if the hounds break away,and the deer crosses the country, they are seldom to be seen at the end of asecond. This is a most palpable and incontrovertible demonstration, thatanyhorse mayfollow, but none, exceptTHOROUGHBREDhorses, can gowiththe hounds.
During the time the chase is suspended, and the hounds are at bay, (which is till the King gets up,) the exhilarating sound of the horns before them, and the clamorous impatience of the hounds to proceed, constitute a scene so truly rich and ecstatic, that the tear of excessive joy and grateful sensibility may be frequently observed in almost every eye. After this relief of a few minutes to bothHOUNDSandHORSES, in which they collect theirwind, and become proportionally refreshed, the hounds are permitted to break away, which they do with a redoubled ardour, as if it had absolutely increased by their recent restraint. The same scene of racing andtailingcontinues during everyburstto the termination of the chase, the longer which is, the more the field of horsemen become reduced; while the blood horses only move in perfect unison, and, at their common rating stroke, lay witheaseby thesideof theHOUNDS; and this is the reason why, inlongruns, so many are completelythrown out, and left to explore their way in different parts of the country through which the chase has passed. One material difference is known to exist between this kind of sport and every other; the utmost fortitude andindefatigable exertions areheremade tosave: in all the rest, the summit of happiness, the sole gratification of local ambition, is tokill: so that, at any rate,STAG-HUNTINGhas the plea ofHUMANITYin its favor; in proof of which, the hounds are never known to run fromchasetoview, but every individual is feelingly alive to thedangerof theDEER, who have so largely and laboriously contributed to the completion of his own most ardent happiness: a secret inspiration operates upon every latent spring of human sensibility; and no difficulty at the moment seems too great to surmount, for the preservation of a life in which every spectator feels himself most impressively concerned. This final burst of a chase is most dreadfully severe, particularly if the last mile or two isrun in view; when which is the case, the deer exerts all his utmost and remaining power to take thesoil, if water is within his reach: this he sometimes does with the hounds so close to his haunches, that it is impossible to prevent their plunging with him into the stream. In such predicament, if it is found impracticable to draw off the body of the hounds, to insure his safety, theYeoman Prickers, andothers, are frequently seen above their middles in water, (uncertain of its depth,) to preserve the life of theDEER, at the hazard of their own. This may be considered, by the recluse and callous Cynic, a degree of valour beyond discretion; but the debt of humanity, like the HibernianMajor'swordin the Comedy, is "aDEBTofHONOUR, and must bepaid."
The most moderate chases with the stag extend from an hour and a half to two hours; though from three to four hours is by no means uncommon in the course of the season. Horses too deficient in speed, too heavy in formation, too full in flesh, or foul in condition, frequently fall martyrs to a want of judgment or prudence in theirRIDERSduring thechase: every man ought to know when his horse is dangerously distressed, and of course should bow implicit obedience to the occasion: there are times whenself-denialwould add lustre to the brow of aMONARCH; and it never can be displayed with a more humane effect, than when in the defence and preservation of so useful an animal; who, being deprived the privilege of free agency, is not possessed of the power to protect himself: under the influence of which consideration, there is not aSPORTSMANofEXPERIENCEorHUMANITYexisting, who would not philosophically retire with patience from the field, to save the life of a faithful persevering companion, than to see himsink(never more to rise) a victim to inadvertency, folly, or indiscretion. In a severe chase of more thanfour hours, recited in the former part of the Work, (where the stag was taken at Tilehurst, near Reading, in Berkshire,) one horse dropped dead in the field, another died before he could reach a stable, and seven morein the course of a week. The concluding ceremony of the chase is the preservation of the deer, the baying of the hounds, and the melodious concert of the horns; after which the former are drawn off, and the stag, hind, or heavier, is deposited in a place of safety, from whence he is taken the following day, in a convenient vehicle constructed for the purpose.
The regular hunting days with theSTAGhounds of his Majesty, areTuesdaysandSaturdays, from Holyrood Day (Sept. 25) to the first Saturday in May; except in Christmas and Easter Weeks, in each of which they hunt three times. The two grand or most public days, areHolyrood DayandEaster Monday, when the field is uncommonly numerous; particularly if the weather favourably corresponds with the occasion.
STALING—is the evacuation of urine by either horse or mare, which is at some times partially obstructed, and at others totally suppressed. The secretion of urine may be retarded from a variety of causes; such as injuries sustained in the spine, particularly in theLOINS, near which thekidniesare seated; and these, from their irritability, are also easily susceptible of disease, by which the discharge may be affected. The urine, with a horse or mare in a healthy state, should flow in a moderate stream, of a transparent colour, midway between a brownand red; not inclining to a milky, foul consistence, or tending to a tinge of blood. The evacuation should take place with ease, perfectly free from laborious groanings, and equally so from partial dribblings, or periodical trifling stoppings, which always denote a something imperfect in the secretion, or some obstruction in the urinary passages.Staling, when the urine is strongly impregnated with appearance of blood, should be early attended to, as it is mostly occasioned by some serious injury to the kidnies, or elsewhere. It is very frequently brought on by hard, long and immoderate riding, or drawing; and may be the effect of a rupture of some blood-vessel, the seat of which it may be impossible to ascertain: if it should be a discharge of nearly pure blood, and that in any considerable quantity, great danger may be apprehended. Bleeding (to constitute revulsion) is a preliminary step to every degree of hope, followed by small quantities of nitre in powder, blended with equal parts of gum Arabic in the same state. Gelatinous fluids, as oatmeal gruel, or malt sweet-wort, withnursing,rest, and small doses ofLIQUID LAUDANUM, are the only means to be pursued.
—is the evacuation of urine by either horse or mare, which is at some times partially obstructed, and at others totally suppressed. The secretion of urine may be retarded from a variety of causes; such as injuries sustained in the spine, particularly in theLOINS, near which thekidniesare seated; and these, from their irritability, are also easily susceptible of disease, by which the discharge may be affected. The urine, with a horse or mare in a healthy state, should flow in a moderate stream, of a transparent colour, midway between a brownand red; not inclining to a milky, foul consistence, or tending to a tinge of blood. The evacuation should take place with ease, perfectly free from laborious groanings, and equally so from partial dribblings, or periodical trifling stoppings, which always denote a something imperfect in the secretion, or some obstruction in the urinary passages.
Staling, when the urine is strongly impregnated with appearance of blood, should be early attended to, as it is mostly occasioned by some serious injury to the kidnies, or elsewhere. It is very frequently brought on by hard, long and immoderate riding, or drawing; and may be the effect of a rupture of some blood-vessel, the seat of which it may be impossible to ascertain: if it should be a discharge of nearly pure blood, and that in any considerable quantity, great danger may be apprehended. Bleeding (to constitute revulsion) is a preliminary step to every degree of hope, followed by small quantities of nitre in powder, blended with equal parts of gum Arabic in the same state. Gelatinous fluids, as oatmeal gruel, or malt sweet-wort, withnursing,rest, and small doses ofLIQUID LAUDANUM, are the only means to be pursued.
STALL.—The partitions into which a stable is divided are denominatedSTALLS; and the space allotted to each horse is called a stall. These, in stables constructed with judgment, and erected witha necessary respect to health and convenience, should never be less than nine or ten feet high, and six feet wide: the heighth will contribute much to the equal temperature of the air; and the width will contribute to the comfort of the horse in an occasional extension of his extremities, as well as prevent many of those injuries sustained in too suddenly turning in narrow and confined stalls, particularly in the common livery stables of the Metropolis. In many large equestrian and hunting establishments there are single stalls (called loose boxes) of such dimensions as are adapted to the accommodation of horses eithersickorlame, where they are then at liberty to expand at full length, and enabled to roll at their ease: these are of great utility, and few sportsmen continue long without them.
.—The partitions into which a stable is divided are denominatedSTALLS; and the space allotted to each horse is called a stall. These, in stables constructed with judgment, and erected witha necessary respect to health and convenience, should never be less than nine or ten feet high, and six feet wide: the heighth will contribute much to the equal temperature of the air; and the width will contribute to the comfort of the horse in an occasional extension of his extremities, as well as prevent many of those injuries sustained in too suddenly turning in narrow and confined stalls, particularly in the common livery stables of the Metropolis. In many large equestrian and hunting establishments there are single stalls (called loose boxes) of such dimensions as are adapted to the accommodation of horses eithersickorlame, where they are then at liberty to expand at full length, and enabled to roll at their ease: these are of great utility, and few sportsmen continue long without them.
STALLION—is the appellation given to a perfect horse, not mutilated by the operation ofcastration, but preserved in a state of nature, for the purpose of propagation. Stallions should be of great strength, according to the distinct breed they are intended to promote, of correct shape, uniform make, and corresponding symmetry; free from every kind of hereditary taint; good eyes, long forehand, short back, round barrel, wide chest, straight legs, free from splents before, and spavins behind. Although it is a difficult task to obtain perfection, some little circumspection may be necessary,in coming as near to it as circumstances and situation will permit. Experimental observation has produced demonstration, that stallions really blind, or with eyes defective, have produced colts of similar description; such defects not appearing in their firsttwoorthreeyears, nor, indeed, till they have been worked, and the powers brought into action. Instances are never wanting of the great number annually disposed to breed, who as annuallyrepentfor want of these prudent precautions. Not only the above points, but the temper and disposition of a stallion should be also attended to: vicious and restive horses should be equally avoided; those imperfections are very frequently transmitted fromsiretoson, and continued to posterity.
—is the appellation given to a perfect horse, not mutilated by the operation ofcastration, but preserved in a state of nature, for the purpose of propagation. Stallions should be of great strength, according to the distinct breed they are intended to promote, of correct shape, uniform make, and corresponding symmetry; free from every kind of hereditary taint; good eyes, long forehand, short back, round barrel, wide chest, straight legs, free from splents before, and spavins behind. Although it is a difficult task to obtain perfection, some little circumspection may be necessary,in coming as near to it as circumstances and situation will permit. Experimental observation has produced demonstration, that stallions really blind, or with eyes defective, have produced colts of similar description; such defects not appearing in their firsttwoorthreeyears, nor, indeed, till they have been worked, and the powers brought into action. Instances are never wanting of the great number annually disposed to breed, who as annuallyrepentfor want of these prudent precautions. Not only the above points, but the temper and disposition of a stallion should be also attended to: vicious and restive horses should be equally avoided; those imperfections are very frequently transmitted fromsiretoson, and continued to posterity.
Stallions of the racing kind were never known to have covered at so high a price as in the memory of the present generation.Marsk, after the appearance of that prodigyEclipse, covered a certain number of mares at 100 guineas each; and none now of the first celebrity, cover at less than ten, fifteen, or twenty. Those in the highest sporting estimation, and announced for the present season, 1803, areAlexander, at 10 guineas;Ambrosio, 10 guineas;Beningbrough, 10 guineas;Buzzard, 10 guineas;Coriander, 10 guineas;Dungannon, 10 guineas; andSir Harry, at five.Hambletonian, 10 guineas; andPatriot, at five.Volunteer, at 10guineas; andShuttle, at five.Pegasus,Precipitate, andSir Solomon, at 10 guineas each.Stamford,Idris,Meteor, andMr. Teazle, at five.Sir Peter Teazle, 15 guineas;Young Eclipse, 20 guineas;Whisky,Worthy, andWaxy, at 10 guineas;Trumpator, eight guineas;Oscar, at six.Grouse,Gouty,Fidget,Totteridge,Don Quixote, andOld Tat, at five guineas; andPetworth,Stickler,Warter,Gamenut,Moorcock, (brother toGrouse,) andZachariah, at three.
The following famous stallions died at or about the dates annexed to their names.Old Fox, in 1738, aged 23 years.Old Partner, 1747, aged 29. TheGodolphinArabian, 1753, 29.Old Cade, 1756. TheBoltonStarling, 1757.Snip, the same year.Young Cade, 1764.Old Marsk, July 1779.King Herod, May 12, 1780.Matchem, February 21, 1781.Imperator, 1786.Morwick Ball, January 4, 1787, aged 25 years.Eclipse, February 26, 1789, in his 26th year.Goldfinder, in 1789.Fortitude, the same year.Conductor, in 1790.Phlegon, the same year.Faggergill, 1791; andFlorizel, the same year.Fortunio,Jupiter, andSoldier, all died in 1802.