WASP.—See "Venomous Bites."
.—See "Venomous Bites."
WATERING.—Upon the proper and confident mode of watering a horse, his health in some degree (but more particularly his condition) principally depends. During a journey in the summer, as well as in a stable in the winter, some attention is necessary to both thequalityandquantityof water a horse is permitted to indulge in. There are fixed rules with systematic sportsmen, from which there is never the slighted deviation, but when circumstances may compulsively occasion a temporary variation: the most important of these are, never to let a horse drinkcoldwater when he ishot; or to give himpumporwellwater, when river or rain water can be obtained. The difference of effect between the two may (particularly in the winter months) be immediately observed by those whochuse to make the experiment: hard spring water is frequently known, from its chilling frigidity, to occasion severe and dangerous fits of the cholic; and when it has not that effect, it never fails to check the circulation; producing such an instantaneous collapsion of the pores, that the coat, though fine a few minutes before, becomes as rough and staring, as if the horse had been exposed to the inclemency of the winter season. Horses kept for the sports of the field, and in a state of condition superior to those employed on more common occasions, are usually watered with a pail in the stable; but this should never be done till hay has been previously placed in the rack; and the act of watering should be instantly followed by the usual ceremony of substantial dressing, wisping, and brushing over, to prevent either of the two inconveniencies before described. The old and ridiculous custom of taking a horse to a pond, that he may have a gallop "towarmthewaterin his belly," seems to be nearly abolished with the more enlightened part of the world; and although the practice is persevered in upon the turf, it is to be observed, that those horses are restricted in quantity; and that they are walked for some time after drinking, previous to what is termed their watering gallop.
.—Upon the proper and confident mode of watering a horse, his health in some degree (but more particularly his condition) principally depends. During a journey in the summer, as well as in a stable in the winter, some attention is necessary to both thequalityandquantityof water a horse is permitted to indulge in. There are fixed rules with systematic sportsmen, from which there is never the slighted deviation, but when circumstances may compulsively occasion a temporary variation: the most important of these are, never to let a horse drinkcoldwater when he ishot; or to give himpumporwellwater, when river or rain water can be obtained. The difference of effect between the two may (particularly in the winter months) be immediately observed by those whochuse to make the experiment: hard spring water is frequently known, from its chilling frigidity, to occasion severe and dangerous fits of the cholic; and when it has not that effect, it never fails to check the circulation; producing such an instantaneous collapsion of the pores, that the coat, though fine a few minutes before, becomes as rough and staring, as if the horse had been exposed to the inclemency of the winter season. Horses kept for the sports of the field, and in a state of condition superior to those employed on more common occasions, are usually watered with a pail in the stable; but this should never be done till hay has been previously placed in the rack; and the act of watering should be instantly followed by the usual ceremony of substantial dressing, wisping, and brushing over, to prevent either of the two inconveniencies before described. The old and ridiculous custom of taking a horse to a pond, that he may have a gallop "towarmthewaterin his belly," seems to be nearly abolished with the more enlightened part of the world; and although the practice is persevered in upon the turf, it is to be observed, that those horses are restricted in quantity; and that they are walked for some time after drinking, previous to what is termed their watering gallop.
WATTLES—are the gills hanging from below the under beak of a cock: these are taken froma stag(young game cock) at the same time with hiscomb, so soon as they are sufficiently grown for the operation, which is performed before they are turned down to a master walk. The little finger is insinuated into the throat of the cock, when which is properly distended, the wattles are cut off close all round with the scissars; and, lastly, the comb; the whole being slightly washed with a little weak salt and water.
—are the gills hanging from below the under beak of a cock: these are taken froma stag(young game cock) at the same time with hiscomb, so soon as they are sufficiently grown for the operation, which is performed before they are turned down to a master walk. The little finger is insinuated into the throat of the cock, when which is properly distended, the wattles are cut off close all round with the scissars; and, lastly, the comb; the whole being slightly washed with a little weak salt and water.
WAXY—is a horse of recent reputation upon the turf, whose performances promise to render him a stallion high in estimation. He was bred by Sir F. Poole; foaled in 1790; got byPot8o'sout ofMaria, a daughter ofHerod. In 1793, when three years old, he won the Derby Stakes (at Epsom) of 50 guineas each,half forfeit, (50 subscribers,) beating twelve; the remainder paying forfeit. The oddstwelvetooneagainst him at starting. At Lewes he won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, (nine subscribers,) carrying 7lb. extra. At Abingdon he won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, 5 subscribers. In 1794, he won the Jockey Club Plate at Newmarket; the King's 100 guineas at Ipswich; a 50l.plate, and 60 guineas, at Lewes. In 1795, the King's Plate at Salisbury. In 1796, the King's Plate at Guildford; a subscription of 10 guineas each, (13 subscribers,) at Lewes; and the King's Plate at Salisbury. In 1797, he broke down in running for the gold cup at Oxford. The following season he was announced as a stallion at 10 guineasa mare, and half a guinea the groom, at Lewes, in Sussex. Two of his produce, each three years old, were brought to the Post last year, 1802; one calledMiss Newland, who won two 50l.plates at Canterbury; andShock, who won 100 guineas at Brighton, and 50 guineas at Newmarket.
—is a horse of recent reputation upon the turf, whose performances promise to render him a stallion high in estimation. He was bred by Sir F. Poole; foaled in 1790; got byPot8o'sout ofMaria, a daughter ofHerod. In 1793, when three years old, he won the Derby Stakes (at Epsom) of 50 guineas each,half forfeit, (50 subscribers,) beating twelve; the remainder paying forfeit. The oddstwelvetooneagainst him at starting. At Lewes he won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, (nine subscribers,) carrying 7lb. extra. At Abingdon he won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, 5 subscribers. In 1794, he won the Jockey Club Plate at Newmarket; the King's 100 guineas at Ipswich; a 50l.plate, and 60 guineas, at Lewes. In 1795, the King's Plate at Salisbury. In 1796, the King's Plate at Guildford; a subscription of 10 guineas each, (13 subscribers,) at Lewes; and the King's Plate at Salisbury. In 1797, he broke down in running for the gold cup at Oxford. The following season he was announced as a stallion at 10 guineasa mare, and half a guinea the groom, at Lewes, in Sussex. Two of his produce, each three years old, were brought to the Post last year, 1802; one calledMiss Newland, who won two 50l.plates at Canterbury; andShock, who won 100 guineas at Brighton, and 50 guineas at Newmarket.
WEANING—is the act of separating a colt or filly from its dam, that it may no longer derive support fromsuction, but be compelled to collect its own subsistence from such proper articles of aliment as present themselves according to the season of the year, at which such weaning may be found convenient to take place. This must always become dependent upon circumstances, in respect to the kind of country in which the colt is produced, as well as the purpose for which he is bred, and the late or early part of the season in which he was foaled. A foal produced at the latter end of April, or the beginning of May, will better bear weaning in the early part of October, than a foal dropt in June will in two months after; and this is readily accounted for by the great length of summer the former enjoys in respect to growth, strength, and expansion, over the latter. Where the foal, from having fallen late in the year, or any other cause, is observed to be weak in body and constitution, or stinted in growth, great advantage may be obtained by letting him run in an unrestrained state with the dam during the remainder of the winter.
—is the act of separating a colt or filly from its dam, that it may no longer derive support fromsuction, but be compelled to collect its own subsistence from such proper articles of aliment as present themselves according to the season of the year, at which such weaning may be found convenient to take place. This must always become dependent upon circumstances, in respect to the kind of country in which the colt is produced, as well as the purpose for which he is bred, and the late or early part of the season in which he was foaled. A foal produced at the latter end of April, or the beginning of May, will better bear weaning in the early part of October, than a foal dropt in June will in two months after; and this is readily accounted for by the great length of summer the former enjoys in respect to growth, strength, and expansion, over the latter. Where the foal, from having fallen late in the year, or any other cause, is observed to be weak in body and constitution, or stinted in growth, great advantage may be obtained by letting him run in an unrestrained state with the dam during the remainder of the winter.
It is in general the custom, particularly with colts and fillies bred for the turf, to wean the latter end of September, or during the month of October; the reason of which is, that as the dam is then again in a state of gestation, it is by no means proper, nor can it be consistent, that a subsistence for the colt should be extracted from the dam, which nature requires to be absorbed for the nutritious support of the fœtus in embryo. At whatever time weaning may be determined on, the transition from one food to another so exceedingly opposite, should not be too suddenly made; the salutary interposition of mashes, made from ground malt and bran, equal parts, and thin in consistence, from which the fluid may be sucked, will prove a pleasing and consolatory assistance for the loss the foal has sustained.
WEASEL.—The weasel, though little seen in the environs of towns, is an animal very well known in most parts of the country: it varies in no great degree from thestoat, either in shape, make, or propensity. Its favourite alimentary enjoyment seems the destruction of eggs by suction; although it pursues and destroys poultry and game with equal avidity. By some instinctive impulse of scent or sagacity, the weasel is enabled to follow a hare, which it pursues with a kind of energetic phrensy; and whenever the hare unsuspectingly squats, if this inveterate enemy happens to get up, it immediately makes a spring, seizes the hare near the poll, andnever quits its hold till the animal (though running in a state of distraction, and with the most piteous cries) is deprived of existence. The weasel may justly rank in the list ofvenomousanimals, for its bite is almost universally fatal: a hare, rabbit, or any other object, bit by the weasel, is never known to recover, but continues in a lingering state till death.
.—The weasel, though little seen in the environs of towns, is an animal very well known in most parts of the country: it varies in no great degree from thestoat, either in shape, make, or propensity. Its favourite alimentary enjoyment seems the destruction of eggs by suction; although it pursues and destroys poultry and game with equal avidity. By some instinctive impulse of scent or sagacity, the weasel is enabled to follow a hare, which it pursues with a kind of energetic phrensy; and whenever the hare unsuspectingly squats, if this inveterate enemy happens to get up, it immediately makes a spring, seizes the hare near the poll, andnever quits its hold till the animal (though running in a state of distraction, and with the most piteous cries) is deprived of existence. The weasel may justly rank in the list ofvenomousanimals, for its bite is almost universally fatal: a hare, rabbit, or any other object, bit by the weasel, is never known to recover, but continues in a lingering state till death.
In its pursuits, it has several points much in its favour: its activity, and the peculiar formation of its claws, enable it to scale walls with so much ease, that no spot is secure from its depredations. By way of compensation to the farmer for its luxurious repasts upon eggs and young poultry, it makes some amends by its inveteracy to rats and mice; having a spice of the ferret in its nature, it is to those an inveterate enemy, and pursues them with a most implacable hatred to certain destruction. It is a more successful invader than any other to these smaller animals, as, from its diminutive circumference, it can follow them into their inmost recesses, and destroy with very littleineffectualopposition. To young pigeons it is likewise a destructive depredator; and when it has young, is more bold and indefatigable in its researches. In the dusk of the evening, and by moonlight, it may frequently be seen stealing from its lurking place, under faggot piles or corn ricks, near the farm-house, taking the barns, stables, pig-sties, and poultry-house, insearch of prey; which, when they have killed, if not too large, they carry or drag to the place of their retreat. In the summer season, the weasel will venture a great distance from its usual haunts, and the spot which has afforded it winter protection; it is then very frequently found by the sides of rivulets; and is particularly fond of a situation near a mill, and that is concluded to be from the plenty of rats with which they are invariably surrounded.
WEIGHT for AGE.—In racing advertisements, propositions of different kinds appear, in respect to the weights which are to be carried by the horses who are a year younger or a year older than each other. Such announcements vary, in some degree, between the weights of one place of sport and another; but as theGOLD CUPweights atOxfordare considered a fair criterion of equity, they are here introduced in explanation.
—In racing advertisements, propositions of different kinds appear, in respect to the weights which are to be carried by the horses who are a year younger or a year older than each other. Such announcements vary, in some degree, between the weights of one place of sport and another; but as theGOLD CUPweights atOxfordare considered a fair criterion of equity, they are here introduced in explanation.
WEIGHT for INCHES.—When a plate is advertised to be run for by horses "to carry weight for inches," it is then called aGiveandTake Plate, which see.
.—When a plate is advertised to be run for by horses "to carry weight for inches," it is then called aGiveandTake Plate, which see.
WEIGHT to the SCALE.—Bringing the proper weight to the scale immediately aftereach heat, is in racing a very important consideration. Whatever weight by the conditions, in either plate, match, sweepstakes, or subscription, a horse is appointed to carry, the rider or jockey must have ascertained before the Stewards, or Clerk of the Course, by the scales and weights publicly affixed to the starting-post of every race ground for that purpose. So soon as each and every heat is ended, such rider or jockey is to ride his horse up to the scales, there to be weighed in immediate succession; and any rider or jockey neglecting so to do, dismounting before he reaches the scale, or not bringing his full weight when there, the horse in either case is deemed equallydistanced, and can start no more for that plate or prize, whatever may be its denomination.
.—Bringing the proper weight to the scale immediately aftereach heat, is in racing a very important consideration. Whatever weight by the conditions, in either plate, match, sweepstakes, or subscription, a horse is appointed to carry, the rider or jockey must have ascertained before the Stewards, or Clerk of the Course, by the scales and weights publicly affixed to the starting-post of every race ground for that purpose. So soon as each and every heat is ended, such rider or jockey is to ride his horse up to the scales, there to be weighed in immediate succession; and any rider or jockey neglecting so to do, dismounting before he reaches the scale, or not bringing his full weight when there, the horse in either case is deemed equallydistanced, and can start no more for that plate or prize, whatever may be its denomination.
WENS—are enlargements which may appear upon any of the soft or fleshy parts of a horse's body, and are technically termed encysted tumours; but divided into different kinds, which are thus distinguished. One, upon separation, is found to contain a substance somewhat similar to boiled rice, curds, or a bread poultice; a second, a glutinous adhesive coagulum, nearly resembling honey when not in a state of absolute fluidity; a third, in which the substance has every appearance of suet in its progress from the butcher's to the tallow chandlers;and a fourth, with the contents a little like half-melted grease. The only mode of extirpation (where it can with safety be ventured upon) is by the knife; but if, in performing the operation, every part of the cyst or bag is not completely removed, it will always be liable to enlarge again, and render abortive all that may have been done before. Whenever the tumour is so extirpated, the wound is to be dressed in the usual way, and a favourable incarnation and union of parts will soon be obtained.
—are enlargements which may appear upon any of the soft or fleshy parts of a horse's body, and are technically termed encysted tumours; but divided into different kinds, which are thus distinguished. One, upon separation, is found to contain a substance somewhat similar to boiled rice, curds, or a bread poultice; a second, a glutinous adhesive coagulum, nearly resembling honey when not in a state of absolute fluidity; a third, in which the substance has every appearance of suet in its progress from the butcher's to the tallow chandlers;and a fourth, with the contents a little like half-melted grease. The only mode of extirpation (where it can with safety be ventured upon) is by the knife; but if, in performing the operation, every part of the cyst or bag is not completely removed, it will always be liable to enlarge again, and render abortive all that may have been done before. Whenever the tumour is so extirpated, the wound is to be dressed in the usual way, and a favourable incarnation and union of parts will soon be obtained.
WHEEZING—is that seeming difficulty of respiration through the nostrils of a horse, which is by some attributed to a wrong cause; suspecting it to be a contraction or narrowness between the bones and cartilages of the nose. This, to a more nice or accurate observer, does not appear to be the case; on the contrary, attentively investigated, it appears there is very little, if any, doubt to be entertained of its being a defect in the natural inflation of the lungs. Admitting this, it is then a gradational relative to the asthmatic and thick-winded tribe, where some of the finer vessels are obstructed, become impervious, or tubercles formed. In the latter, cure cannot be expected; alleviation may be obtained by a patient perseverance in mild mercurial alteratives; and in all the different shades of these affections of the lungs, originating in plethora and a viscid sizy state of the blood, frequently unloadingthe vessels of their contents by bleeding, attenuating the blood by antimonials, and enlivening the circulation by pectoral cordial detergents, are the only means upon which an expectation of permanent relief can be entertained.
—is that seeming difficulty of respiration through the nostrils of a horse, which is by some attributed to a wrong cause; suspecting it to be a contraction or narrowness between the bones and cartilages of the nose. This, to a more nice or accurate observer, does not appear to be the case; on the contrary, attentively investigated, it appears there is very little, if any, doubt to be entertained of its being a defect in the natural inflation of the lungs. Admitting this, it is then a gradational relative to the asthmatic and thick-winded tribe, where some of the finer vessels are obstructed, become impervious, or tubercles formed. In the latter, cure cannot be expected; alleviation may be obtained by a patient perseverance in mild mercurial alteratives; and in all the different shades of these affections of the lungs, originating in plethora and a viscid sizy state of the blood, frequently unloadingthe vessels of their contents by bleeding, attenuating the blood by antimonials, and enlivening the circulation by pectoral cordial detergents, are the only means upon which an expectation of permanent relief can be entertained.
WHIM PLATE,—in the language of theTURF, is where the horses who run carry weight for age, and weight for inches.
,—in the language of theTURF, is where the horses who run carry weight for age, and weight for inches.
WHIP.—Sporting whips are of two kinds; one of which, having a handle with a hook, and a long thong, is called a hunting-whip; being useful in assisting to manage the hounds. A light straight single-stem whip, is called a jockey whip, being the sort used on the turf.
.—Sporting whips are of two kinds; one of which, having a handle with a hook, and a long thong, is called a hunting-whip; being useful in assisting to manage the hounds. A light straight single-stem whip, is called a jockey whip, being the sort used on the turf.
WHIP—is the name of a horse of some reputation as a racer, but was withdrawn from the turf, and announced as a stallion, at five years old. He was bred byMr. Durand; foaled in 1794; got bySaltram, dam byKing Herod, and was the favourite for the Derby in 1797, and expected to win it easy, had he been well enough to have started. He was tried to have so much speed, as to be able to give many colts of the same year from twenty to thirty pounds. The first time he started, he won a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, the New Mile at Ascot, beating three others; and afterwards a 50l.plate for three year olds at Reading. In1798 he won 50l.at Ascot Heath. In running for the gold cup at Oxford, againstDiamond,Stickler,Johnny, andOatlands, he ran out of the Course, when supposed to be winning to a certainty. At Brighton he won a 50l.plate, beatingCombatant, who had the day before won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, (17 subscribers,) beating seven others. At Canterbury he won a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, (five subscribers,) which was the last time he started; having since been advertised to cover at five guineas a mare, and five shillings the groom.
—is the name of a horse of some reputation as a racer, but was withdrawn from the turf, and announced as a stallion, at five years old. He was bred byMr. Durand; foaled in 1794; got bySaltram, dam byKing Herod, and was the favourite for the Derby in 1797, and expected to win it easy, had he been well enough to have started. He was tried to have so much speed, as to be able to give many colts of the same year from twenty to thirty pounds. The first time he started, he won a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, the New Mile at Ascot, beating three others; and afterwards a 50l.plate for three year olds at Reading. In1798 he won 50l.at Ascot Heath. In running for the gold cup at Oxford, againstDiamond,Stickler,Johnny, andOatlands, he ran out of the Course, when supposed to be winning to a certainty. At Brighton he won a 50l.plate, beatingCombatant, who had the day before won a sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, (17 subscribers,) beating seven others. At Canterbury he won a sweepstakes of 20 guineas each, (five subscribers,) which was the last time he started; having since been advertised to cover at five guineas a mare, and five shillings the groom.
WHIPPER-IN—is an assistant subordinate to the huntsman in every hunting establishment, which, if upon a well-regulated scale of any magnitude, is never considered complete withlessthantwo. One of these has a shade of superiority, and is called thefirst; the other, thesecond, whipper-in. The first, upon all and every occasion, is considered as a second huntsman, empowered to act with his authority upon every emergency, and at all times during temporary separation in the chase, or unavoidable absence. Notwithstanding this delegation of power, it is his duty to remain strictly obedient to the huntsman, and to execute all his injunctions with the most cheerful alacrity; and however largely he may be qualified in other respects, it is impossible he can ever become agoodwhipper-in, if he is in possession of abadtemper. It is absolutely indispensible that he should be a naturalphilosopher in respect to patience and self-denial, as it is so peculiarly his province to act an inferior part, unless when circumstances occur to bring him more forward upon the canvass; the moment which cease, he must contentedly retire again from the front, to his former station in the background of the picture.
—is an assistant subordinate to the huntsman in every hunting establishment, which, if upon a well-regulated scale of any magnitude, is never considered complete withlessthantwo. One of these has a shade of superiority, and is called thefirst; the other, thesecond, whipper-in. The first, upon all and every occasion, is considered as a second huntsman, empowered to act with his authority upon every emergency, and at all times during temporary separation in the chase, or unavoidable absence. Notwithstanding this delegation of power, it is his duty to remain strictly obedient to the huntsman, and to execute all his injunctions with the most cheerful alacrity; and however largely he may be qualified in other respects, it is impossible he can ever become agoodwhipper-in, if he is in possession of abadtemper. It is absolutely indispensible that he should be a naturalphilosopher in respect to patience and self-denial, as it is so peculiarly his province to act an inferior part, unless when circumstances occur to bring him more forward upon the canvass; the moment which cease, he must contentedly retire again from the front, to his former station in the background of the picture.
Mr. Beckford, after a profusion of the most observant experience, admitted an excellent whipper-in to be preferable to an excellent huntsman; and as the opinion he believed was entirely new, he felt himself in some degree called upon to explain it. He had no doubt but he should have better sport, and kill more foxes, with a moderate huntsman, and an excellent whipper-in, than with the best of huntsmen without such assistance. For he considered, that, in general sporting acceptation, it might probably be conceived, that a good huntsman might always make a good whipper-in; not such, however, as he meant; his talent must beborn with him. His reasons were, that good hounds (and bad he would not keep) oftener need the one than the other; and genius, which, in a whipper-in, if attended by obedience, (his first distinguishing requisite,) can be productive of no ill, is, in a huntsman, a dangerous though a desirable quality; and if not accompanied with a large share of prudence, blended with humility, will oftentimes retard and spoil the sport, as well as tend materially to hurt the hounds.
It has been erroneously conceived, by some theoretic andnewly-enteredsportsmen, that it is the business of a whipper-in to attend closely upon the huntsman, to receive his commands, and execute his orders; which is by no means the case. If he is on the opposite side of the covert to the huntsman, he is in his proper place; and if within hearing of hishalloo, he is near enough; for that is the signal it is the province of the whipper-in to obey. The second whipper-in may occasionally attend upon the huntsman, to act as a fieldaid de camp, when he is not required by circumstances to be active elsewhere. The first whipper-in should of course be qualified to hunt the hounds, if necessary: nothing can be better calculated to keep a huntsman within the bounds of decency and good manners; as they in general are by no means deficient in the assumption of imaginary consequence, when once they have imbibed an opinion of their own superiority.
When hounds are taken from the kennel, it is the place of the first whipper-in to go before, and of the second to come at some distance behind them. If permitted to follow too near, however great the necessity may be, the poor animals will never be allowed time to empty themselves; for these juvenile whippers-in, upon their initiation, conceive it their proper element to be always in a gallop, and incessantly whipping the hounds whenever they can get at them. The first whipper-in should be oflight weight, great agility, quick conception, of much personal fortitude, and an excellent horseman. With these qualifications, he has it always in his power to exert and display his ability to advantage. While the huntsman slicks close to his headmost hounds, the whipper-in can give proof of his judgment in various ways: he canclap forwardto any great earth that may be open; he maysink the wind, to view and halloo a fox when the scent fails, or keep him offhis soil: he may avail himself of the first opportunity tostopthetail hounds, and get them forward; and he has it constantly in his power to assist the hounds, if he has penetration to discover where, and at what time, it is most wanted. The making and keeping a pack steady, depend entirely upon him; as it is not the province of a huntsman either torateorfloga hound, if it can consistently be avoided.
During the chase, whenever it may be necessary to stop the hounds, the whipper-in should always be at their head before he begins to make the attempt.Rating behindcan effect but little; and if they are running riot in covert, it may prevent him from knowing which are the aggressors. Whippers-in are frequently in the extreme, and continue rating long after they find that rating will not avail: a hound should never be struck, unless he is first made sensible what it is for: if they were a little less hasty, and more disposed to reflection, theywould never strike a hound that didnotdeserve it, and would strike those hard who do. In fact, the experience of every additional season affords ample conviction, that a whipper-in seldom distinguishes sufficiently the degrees of offence which a dog may have committed, to proportion his punishment accordingly; and such is the prevalence of custom, that when only riding a hound, to turn him after the huntsman, he is rated (if not flogged) as severely as if he had been guilty of the greatest possible offence.
A whipper-in is generally so exceedingly pleased with his own powers of vociferation, that he is incessantlyratingsome one hound or another, and then as industriously endeavours tofloghim; without asking himself the question, whether it is likely a hound thus rated will not naturally feel inclined to avoid the whip. It is certainly the most consistent, whenever a hound may deserve correction, to whip him first, and to rate him afterwards. The getting forward the tail hounds is a material and necessary part of the chase, in which a whipper-in, of energy and judgment, can always give proof of his ability. Where there are two whippers-in, thefirstis often justified in getting forward, when the huntsman, from accident, or unforeseen and unavoidable obstructions, may be prevented from being up with the hounds; but thesecondhas no right whatever to be forward, so long as a singlehound is known to have been left behind. Most huntsmen cast an eye of jaundiced jealousy at a whipper-in, particularly if his merits have attracted the attention of his employer; upon a presumption he may have a rival in his subordinate, who may, upon any indiscretion or disobedience of his own, have a fair chance of becoming his successor; a circumstance that sometimes a little cankers the basis of unanimity. After these accumulated remarks upon the personal qualifications and official efforts of a whipper-in, it may with truth be affirmed, if he is innately bold, active, and energetic; a prudent, careful, and steady horseman, with a quick ear, and clear voice; with attentive knowledge, and observation to distinguish where he can be the most useful; not possessing the simple conceit of killing a fox without the huntsman, but, on the contrary, feel disposed to assist him all he can; such a one may be considered completely perfect in his department, and will seldom or ever be long out of employment.
WHELPS.—The produce of hounds during their first months are termedwhelps; the young of other sporting dogs are in general calledpuppies. Those who are intent upon forming a hunting establishment, will, in laying the foundation, recollect, that hounds are very frequently to be purchased for considerably less money than they can be bred. The pack once obtained, breeding then becomesindispensibly necessary for the proper support of the stock, and the acquisition of superior excellence; by possessing the annual convenience of entering young, and rejecting old, till the body become perfectly complete. The business of breeding is considered so very material to the sporting reputation of the establishment, that, by amateurs and professed sportsmen, it is conducted with a systematic circumspection, and most judicious discrimination. Uniformity in size, shape, make, colour, speed, and constitution, are leading perfections, which should never be lost sight of.Mr. Beckford, who seems to have understood the chase much better than any writer that has ever promulgated an opinion upon the subject, has laid down some precautionary rules, from which the emulous and the prudent will seldom deviate.
.—The produce of hounds during their first months are termedwhelps; the young of other sporting dogs are in general calledpuppies. Those who are intent upon forming a hunting establishment, will, in laying the foundation, recollect, that hounds are very frequently to be purchased for considerably less money than they can be bred. The pack once obtained, breeding then becomesindispensibly necessary for the proper support of the stock, and the acquisition of superior excellence; by possessing the annual convenience of entering young, and rejecting old, till the body become perfectly complete. The business of breeding is considered so very material to the sporting reputation of the establishment, that, by amateurs and professed sportsmen, it is conducted with a systematic circumspection, and most judicious discrimination. Uniformity in size, shape, make, colour, speed, and constitution, are leading perfections, which should never be lost sight of.Mr. Beckford, who seems to have understood the chase much better than any writer that has ever promulgated an opinion upon the subject, has laid down some precautionary rules, from which the emulous and the prudent will seldom deviate.
In a well-regulated and extensive hunting establishment, no less than nine or ten couple of whelps should be annually bred to keep up a regular supply: the distemper sometimes making dreadful havoc amongst the whelps, as well as age and infirmities amongst the old hounds, if a proper number of recruits were not always ready, much mortifying disappointment might probably ensue. Whenever it can be so contrived, the whelps should appear between the second or third week in February, and the middle of the month of March; they have then nothing to encounter from the cold severity of the winter season, and the ensuing summer to bask,expand, and grow in. It is on all hands admitted injudicious to breed from hounds with palpable imperfections: weak hounds, babblers, skirters, slow, and tardy-tongued hounds, should always be rejected. An old dog should never be put to an old bitch; nor should either dog or bitch be in an unhealthy state, lest the offspring should be eventually affected.
WHISKEY,—the name of a most excellent runner, whose recent performances on the turf laid the foundation of his present celebrity as a stallion of much promised reputation. He was bred by his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales; foaled in 1780, and got bySaltramout ofCalash, (who was got byHerod;) her dam (Teresa) byMatchem. In 1792, when three years old, in the July Meeting at Newmarket, he won a sweepstakes of 200 guineas, eight subscribers; and 50l.at Bedford. First October Meeting, a post sweepstakes of 1000 guineas each, three subscribers. The next day a subscription of 200 guineas each, eleven subscribers. Second October Meeting, a subscription of 20 guineas each, six subscribers. In the Houghton Meeting, he beat Sir F. Standish'sSir Johnacross the flat, staking 150 to 100 guineas. In 1793 (then Mr. Durand's) he won the Jockey Stakes of 100 guineas each, half forfeit, twelve subscribers. The next Meeting he beatHalberta match over the Beacon for 200 guineas. At Winchester he walked over the Course for a 50l.plate; and wona sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, six subscribers. He was then withdrawn from the turf, and announced as a stallion at five guineas a mare, and half a guinea the groom. Two of his get started at only two years, and were both winners. In 1799,Clarissaappeared, and at two years old won 150 guineas, and 120 guineas, at Brighton.Pamela, three years old, 50l.at Brocket Hall; 200 guineas at Epsom; and 50l.at Ipswich. In 1800, two others appeared, each two years old, both winners at Newmarket. In 1801,Eleanorstarted, and won 250 guineas, 700 guineas, and 200 guineas, at Newmarket; and the Derby and Oaks Stakes, both at Epsom, amounting to 1475 guineas.Juliawon the July Stakes, 40 guineas, and 450 guineas, at Newmarket; andWhiskerandoswon three prizes at Newmarket, Brighton, and Egham. In 1802,Whirligigwon seven prizes;Julia, six;Eleanor, three;Gig, two; andOrlando, 100 guineas, at Newmarket. Under the increasing merits of which progeny, his price as a stallion is advanced to double the original sum; standing announced to cover for 10 guineas a mare the present season, 1803, at Great Barton, near Bury St. Edmund's.
,—the name of a most excellent runner, whose recent performances on the turf laid the foundation of his present celebrity as a stallion of much promised reputation. He was bred by his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales; foaled in 1780, and got bySaltramout ofCalash, (who was got byHerod;) her dam (Teresa) byMatchem. In 1792, when three years old, in the July Meeting at Newmarket, he won a sweepstakes of 200 guineas, eight subscribers; and 50l.at Bedford. First October Meeting, a post sweepstakes of 1000 guineas each, three subscribers. The next day a subscription of 200 guineas each, eleven subscribers. Second October Meeting, a subscription of 20 guineas each, six subscribers. In the Houghton Meeting, he beat Sir F. Standish'sSir Johnacross the flat, staking 150 to 100 guineas. In 1793 (then Mr. Durand's) he won the Jockey Stakes of 100 guineas each, half forfeit, twelve subscribers. The next Meeting he beatHalberta match over the Beacon for 200 guineas. At Winchester he walked over the Course for a 50l.plate; and wona sweepstakes of 10 guineas each, six subscribers. He was then withdrawn from the turf, and announced as a stallion at five guineas a mare, and half a guinea the groom. Two of his get started at only two years, and were both winners. In 1799,Clarissaappeared, and at two years old won 150 guineas, and 120 guineas, at Brighton.Pamela, three years old, 50l.at Brocket Hall; 200 guineas at Epsom; and 50l.at Ipswich. In 1800, two others appeared, each two years old, both winners at Newmarket. In 1801,Eleanorstarted, and won 250 guineas, 700 guineas, and 200 guineas, at Newmarket; and the Derby and Oaks Stakes, both at Epsom, amounting to 1475 guineas.Juliawon the July Stakes, 40 guineas, and 450 guineas, at Newmarket; andWhiskerandoswon three prizes at Newmarket, Brighton, and Egham. In 1802,Whirligigwon seven prizes;Julia, six;Eleanor, three;Gig, two; andOrlando, 100 guineas, at Newmarket. Under the increasing merits of which progeny, his price as a stallion is advanced to double the original sum; standing announced to cover for 10 guineas a mare the present season, 1803, at Great Barton, near Bury St. Edmund's.
WHITE-FOOTED HORSE—is always considered an indication of future weakness in the feet; such horses, in general, having hoofs which become soon brittle and battered; or an outer sole so thin at the bottom, that it compulsively submits to the propulsive force of the membranous mass within,and soon forms a preternatural prominence upon the surface, rendering the foot not only weak, but exceedingly difficult to shoe, without pressing upon the part requiring to be protected.
—is always considered an indication of future weakness in the feet; such horses, in general, having hoofs which become soon brittle and battered; or an outer sole so thin at the bottom, that it compulsively submits to the propulsive force of the membranous mass within,and soon forms a preternatural prominence upon the surface, rendering the foot not only weak, but exceedingly difficult to shoe, without pressing upon the part requiring to be protected.
WHITE HOUND.—A hound perfectly white is hardly ever bred up for the chase; not more on account of their being considered weaker in constitution than hounds of a variegated description, than their contributing less to the uniformity of the pack. The hounds in the highest estimation to constitute beauty, are brown, liver-coloured, or yellow pied; either of those having a proportional participation with the white, and of these the most are now bred. There are, however, some instances, where hounds entirely of a black, or sandy tan, are admitted, and prove thecrackor leading hound of the pack.
.—A hound perfectly white is hardly ever bred up for the chase; not more on account of their being considered weaker in constitution than hounds of a variegated description, than their contributing less to the uniformity of the pack. The hounds in the highest estimation to constitute beauty, are brown, liver-coloured, or yellow pied; either of those having a proportional participation with the white, and of these the most are now bred. There are, however, some instances, where hounds entirely of a black, or sandy tan, are admitted, and prove thecrackor leading hound of the pack.
WIDGEON—is a species of wild fowl, inferior in size to the wild duck, but considerably larger than the teal. They afford little or no sport to the gunner, being but rarely found, except in the utmost severity of the winter, and then only in certain particular fens and marshes in some few different parts of the kingdom. Those with which the markets of the Metropolis are supplied, are caught in the same manner as wild-ducks. SeeDecoy.
—is a species of wild fowl, inferior in size to the wild duck, but considerably larger than the teal. They afford little or no sport to the gunner, being but rarely found, except in the utmost severity of the winter, and then only in certain particular fens and marshes in some few different parts of the kingdom. Those with which the markets of the Metropolis are supplied, are caught in the same manner as wild-ducks. SeeDecoy.
WILD BOAR.—This animal was formerly a native of Britain, and held in such high estimation,that those convicted of killing or maiming them in the time of William the Conqueror, were punished with the loss of their eyes. Charles the First procured wild boars from the continent, and had them turned down in the New Forest to promote the breed; but they were entirely destroyed in the civil wars that ensued. Hunting the wild boar is considered a magnanimous sport with the grandees of those countries in which they abound; but it partakes in no degree of comparison with the exhilarating sport, and enlivening scenes, displayed in the different kinds of chase in our own country. Wild boars are sought after, and tried for, in the largest and thickest woods and coverts, (having angular and cross rides cut through them for the purpose of the chase,) in the same way by which stags are roused, or foxes unkenneled, in this country. The dogs used for the sport, are slow and heavy, much more like a cross between a mastiff and a wire-haired lurcher, than any species of the hound kind. When the boar is once roused, more by the incessant noise and clamour of the multitude than any peculiar property of the dogs, he goes moderately off, not much alarmed at, or seemingly afraid of, the exultations of his pursuers. During the chase (if it is worthy to be termed so) he frequently turns round to face the dogs, and offers to attack them; again proceeds; again turns; and they for a while keep each otherat bay: the same ceremony is renewed, till at length the boar becomes completely tired, refusing to go any farther.The serious conflict then begins in earnest. His defence being strong, and wonderfully powerful, before, the dogs (particularly the young ones) endeavour to attack him behind, in which attempt some lives are frequently lost; but during the struggle, the hunters get up, and put a period to his existence with their spears.
.—This animal was formerly a native of Britain, and held in such high estimation,that those convicted of killing or maiming them in the time of William the Conqueror, were punished with the loss of their eyes. Charles the First procured wild boars from the continent, and had them turned down in the New Forest to promote the breed; but they were entirely destroyed in the civil wars that ensued. Hunting the wild boar is considered a magnanimous sport with the grandees of those countries in which they abound; but it partakes in no degree of comparison with the exhilarating sport, and enlivening scenes, displayed in the different kinds of chase in our own country. Wild boars are sought after, and tried for, in the largest and thickest woods and coverts, (having angular and cross rides cut through them for the purpose of the chase,) in the same way by which stags are roused, or foxes unkenneled, in this country. The dogs used for the sport, are slow and heavy, much more like a cross between a mastiff and a wire-haired lurcher, than any species of the hound kind. When the boar is once roused, more by the incessant noise and clamour of the multitude than any peculiar property of the dogs, he goes moderately off, not much alarmed at, or seemingly afraid of, the exultations of his pursuers. During the chase (if it is worthy to be termed so) he frequently turns round to face the dogs, and offers to attack them; again proceeds; again turns; and they for a while keep each otherat bay: the same ceremony is renewed, till at length the boar becomes completely tired, refusing to go any farther.The serious conflict then begins in earnest. His defence being strong, and wonderfully powerful, before, the dogs (particularly the young ones) endeavour to attack him behind, in which attempt some lives are frequently lost; but during the struggle, the hunters get up, and put a period to his existence with their spears.
WILD DUCK.—SeeDecoy.
.—SeeDecoy.
WILD-GOOSE CHASE,—is neither more or less than a metaphorical allusion to theuncertaintyof itstermination. This originated in a kind of chase (more properly match) formerly decided in the following way. Two horses having started at the place appointed, continued to race by the side of each other, till one having obtained the lead, was entitled to proceed in whatever direction the rider pleased, (either by shortening or prolonging the distance to the winning spot previously agreed on,) according to the qualifications of his horse. This kind of chase so frequently terminated intiredorspoiledhorses, without a decision, that it was long since changed to atrain scent, (that is, a drag across the country;) better known by the denomination of asteeple chase.
,—is neither more or less than a metaphorical allusion to theuncertaintyof itstermination. This originated in a kind of chase (more properly match) formerly decided in the following way. Two horses having started at the place appointed, continued to race by the side of each other, till one having obtained the lead, was entitled to proceed in whatever direction the rider pleased, (either by shortening or prolonging the distance to the winning spot previously agreed on,) according to the qualifications of his horse. This kind of chase so frequently terminated intiredorspoiledhorses, without a decision, that it was long since changed to atrain scent, (that is, a drag across the country;) better known by the denomination of asteeple chase.
WIND BROKEN.—The disorder or malady so called, is (with the most experienced) discovered by a quick and irregular heaving of the flanks, accompanied by a great and palpable difficulty of respirationafter brisk exertion. The usual mode of examination with dealers, is to try the perfect or imperfect state of the wind, by a cough compulsively excited: this is effected by forcibly pressing the gullet, just below the under jaw, at the junction of the head with the neck; from which pressure, if a strong, clear, healthy cough immediately proceeds, the wind may be considered sound, and naturally good; but, on the contrary, should it prove a wheezing husky attempt to cough, terminating with a kind of distant moan, or groan, the horse is asthmatic, and unsound, if not completely broken-winded; in which state most horses may be discovered, from the noise they make in their difficulty of respiration during either a sharp trot or moderate canter; from which they have acquired the common appellation ofroarers, which is understood to imply a certainty ofBroken Wind; which see.
.—The disorder or malady so called, is (with the most experienced) discovered by a quick and irregular heaving of the flanks, accompanied by a great and palpable difficulty of respirationafter brisk exertion. The usual mode of examination with dealers, is to try the perfect or imperfect state of the wind, by a cough compulsively excited: this is effected by forcibly pressing the gullet, just below the under jaw, at the junction of the head with the neck; from which pressure, if a strong, clear, healthy cough immediately proceeds, the wind may be considered sound, and naturally good; but, on the contrary, should it prove a wheezing husky attempt to cough, terminating with a kind of distant moan, or groan, the horse is asthmatic, and unsound, if not completely broken-winded; in which state most horses may be discovered, from the noise they make in their difficulty of respiration during either a sharp trot or moderate canter; from which they have acquired the common appellation ofroarers, which is understood to imply a certainty ofBroken Wind; which see.
WINDGALLS—are soft and flatulent or fluctuating tumours, seated on one or both sides the back sinews, above the fetlock-joint of a horse, and principally upon the fore-legs; but with horses who have been immoderately worked, they frequently appear upon the hind-legs also. They generally make their appearance upon subjects who have been brought into labour too young, and before the vessels have acquired a proper strength and elasticity. Permitted to continue long, without counteraction, they soon possess a rigid inflexibility, which is never to be subdued. Whenever they arefirst perceived, early means should be adopted, to prevent a farther protrusion of the integument. Plentiful impregnations of the best white wine vinegar, followed by powerful repellents of camphorated spirits, incorporated with a sixth part of saturnine extract; or a strong solution of alum in water, assisted by a moderate woollen bandage; will sometimes obliterate thementirely, provided they are attacked in their infancy, and the mode thus adopted patiently persevered in.
—are soft and flatulent or fluctuating tumours, seated on one or both sides the back sinews, above the fetlock-joint of a horse, and principally upon the fore-legs; but with horses who have been immoderately worked, they frequently appear upon the hind-legs also. They generally make their appearance upon subjects who have been brought into labour too young, and before the vessels have acquired a proper strength and elasticity. Permitted to continue long, without counteraction, they soon possess a rigid inflexibility, which is never to be subdued. Whenever they arefirst perceived, early means should be adopted, to prevent a farther protrusion of the integument. Plentiful impregnations of the best white wine vinegar, followed by powerful repellents of camphorated spirits, incorporated with a sixth part of saturnine extract; or a strong solution of alum in water, assisted by a moderate woollen bandage; will sometimes obliterate thementirely, provided they are attacked in their infancy, and the mode thus adopted patiently persevered in.
WITHERS.—The part of a horse so called, is the superior point of the shoulders, situate above the blades, precisely at the termination of the mane, from whence the back begins. Upon the good or ill formation of the withers, the symmetry, strength and value of the horse materially depend. If the subject is well made in the withers, with a gradually advancing forehand, long and proportionally erect, it produces a commanding majestic dignity in the fore quarters, generally accompanied with a corresponding uniformity behind. A horse of this description is almost invariably sure-footed, and an admirable goer in all his paces: on the contrary, if he is defective in this particular point, he is lowerbeforethanbehind, and is proportionally reduced in estimation and intrinsic worth. A horse low in the withers, is mostly short in the forehand also; forcible indications of a deficiency in speedy action, an habitual tendency to theperfectionofstumbling, and the equally mortifying memento of not being ableto carry a saddle in its proper place, without the pleasing appendage calleda crupper.
.—The part of a horse so called, is the superior point of the shoulders, situate above the blades, precisely at the termination of the mane, from whence the back begins. Upon the good or ill formation of the withers, the symmetry, strength and value of the horse materially depend. If the subject is well made in the withers, with a gradually advancing forehand, long and proportionally erect, it produces a commanding majestic dignity in the fore quarters, generally accompanied with a corresponding uniformity behind. A horse of this description is almost invariably sure-footed, and an admirable goer in all his paces: on the contrary, if he is defective in this particular point, he is lowerbeforethanbehind, and is proportionally reduced in estimation and intrinsic worth. A horse low in the withers, is mostly short in the forehand also; forcible indications of a deficiency in speedy action, an habitual tendency to theperfectionofstumbling, and the equally mortifying memento of not being ableto carry a saddle in its proper place, without the pleasing appendage calleda crupper.
The withers are constantly liable to injury, from saddles being wide in the tree, or coming too far forward, which letting the internal part of the pummel come into contact with the projecting point of the withers, mischief (from the pinching, pressure, or friction) frequently ensues, terminating in inflammation, laceration, tumefaction, maturation, and sometimes fistula, which see. Injuries sustained in this part by either of the means before mentioned, should never remain unattended to: a repetition of the cause, from neglect or inattention, is likely to render that serious and severe, which might, by a contrary conduct, have proved only a slight and temporary inconvenience. When such a circumstance has unluckily taken place, and is attended to without delay, cool repellents, and mild astringents, will generally effect an early obliteration; but it should be retained in memory, that the part once bruised acquires an additional degree of tenderness and irritability, which will render the cure more tedious and difficult, should the bruise be inconsiderately or inattentively repeated.
WITHER-WRUNG.—A horse is said to be wither-wrung, when he sustained the origin of the injuries described under the last head.
.—A horse is said to be wither-wrung, when he sustained the origin of the injuries described under the last head.
WOLF.—The wolf, although not now to be found among us, was once a very destructive native of this country, and the whole were ultimately destroyed by mandate from the Crown. Naturalists universally agree in an opinion, that the wolf and dog were originally of the same class; and argue, from its external form, that it is in every respect what the dog was in its natural state of freedom. Although completely annihilated in this country, they are to be found in great abundance in every other, from whence they are speculatively imported, and may be seen in the menageries of those by whom they are established for the sole purpose of public exhibition. In respect to the degree of similitude between the two, impartial inspection must admit the perceptible shades of difference: the shape of the head differs materially; and the eyes being more obliquely seated, affords an aspect of the most savage ferocity. The ears of the wolf are sharp and erect; the tail long, bushy, and bending inwards from its hind legs; its body is of stronger formation than the body of any species of dog; its jaws and teeth evidently larger, and more powerful; and its hair both coarser and thicker. The internal structure of the dog and wolf is precisely the same in every particular; the latter copulate in the same manner, and their sudden separation prevented by the same means. The time of gestation also varies but little, if any; and, from the various experiments recited by the late celebrated Dr. Hunter, there is left no room to doubt, that thewolf and dog will copulate, and produce an intermediate species, capable of subsequent propagation.
.—The wolf, although not now to be found among us, was once a very destructive native of this country, and the whole were ultimately destroyed by mandate from the Crown. Naturalists universally agree in an opinion, that the wolf and dog were originally of the same class; and argue, from its external form, that it is in every respect what the dog was in its natural state of freedom. Although completely annihilated in this country, they are to be found in great abundance in every other, from whence they are speculatively imported, and may be seen in the menageries of those by whom they are established for the sole purpose of public exhibition. In respect to the degree of similitude between the two, impartial inspection must admit the perceptible shades of difference: the shape of the head differs materially; and the eyes being more obliquely seated, affords an aspect of the most savage ferocity. The ears of the wolf are sharp and erect; the tail long, bushy, and bending inwards from its hind legs; its body is of stronger formation than the body of any species of dog; its jaws and teeth evidently larger, and more powerful; and its hair both coarser and thicker. The internal structure of the dog and wolf is precisely the same in every particular; the latter copulate in the same manner, and their sudden separation prevented by the same means. The time of gestation also varies but little, if any; and, from the various experiments recited by the late celebrated Dr. Hunter, there is left no room to doubt, that thewolf and dog will copulate, and produce an intermediate species, capable of subsequent propagation.
In all ages, the wolf has been considered the most savage enemy of mankind; and at most times, and in all countries, rewards have been offered for its destruction. When pressed with hunger, from repeated disappointments, the wolf becomes doubly courageous from necessity; braves every danger, and will attack the very animals under the protection of the human species. The horse alone seems to possess the power of superiority; all inferior animals have no alternative to unconditional submission, and inevitable destruction. Even man himself has frequently fallen a victim to its rapacity; and it is said, upon the best authorities, that when once they have feasted upon human blood, they become the more incessantly rapacious in the pursuit of it. The wolf, from his muscular strength, is enabled to carry off a sheep in his mouth, and even run with it in that manner: his bite is dreadfully severe, and the keener, the less it meets with opposition; but when powerfully refilled, he is exceedingly cautious and circumspect, never fighting when nearly upon an equality, but under the most absolute necessity. The wolf is hardier, and more robust, than the dog, but less alive to the powers of intellectual discrimination: he is almost incessantly prowling in search of prey, and is himself, of all animals, the most difficult to conquer in the chase.
Every possible means were adopted, many centuries since, to rid this country of so rapacious a despoiler.King Edgarattempted to effect it in England, by remitting the punishment of certain crimes on producing a certain number of wolves' tongues: and in Wales, the tax of gold and silver was commuted for an annual tribute of their heads. Some centuries after which, they had increased to such a destructive infinity, as to become again an object of royal attention, and great rewards were once more held forth for their destruction.EdwardtheFirstissued his royal mandate to Peter Corbet, to superintend and assist in the destruction of them in the several counties of Gloucester, Worcester, Hereford, Salop, and Stafford. In other counties, certain persons held their lands upon condition of hunting, taking, and destroying, a number of wolves annually, in proportion to the quantity of land so held. They were so numerous in Scotland about the middle of the fifteenth century, that they completely overrun the country, to the incessant destruction of the flocks, and the immense losses of the community; nor were they, with every indefatigable exertion of the natives, extirpated till the year 1680, when thelast wolfis recorded to have fallen by the hand of the then famous Sir Ewen Cameron. Ireland in those times suffered by their immense numbers in an equal degree with England, Scotland, and Wales, and for a much longer duration, as they were not perfectly annihilated in that country till the earlier part of the last century.
WOLVES' TEETH.—Those so called, are the natural teeth of the horse, enlarged by a preternatural growth, so as to lacerate the fleshy internal part of the cheek by the prominence of their ragged edges, or by the upper grinders overhanging the lower; they catch the wrinkled parts (called flaps) between them in the act of mastication, occasioning so much pain, that some horses are considerably reduced in flesh by a compulsive abstinence, eating no more than merely sufficient to keep the frame in a state of subsistence. With horses labouring under such infirmity or imperfection, there is no relief to be obtained, but from a proper file, and the hand of a steady operator.
.—Those so called, are the natural teeth of the horse, enlarged by a preternatural growth, so as to lacerate the fleshy internal part of the cheek by the prominence of their ragged edges, or by the upper grinders overhanging the lower; they catch the wrinkled parts (called flaps) between them in the act of mastication, occasioning so much pain, that some horses are considerably reduced in flesh by a compulsive abstinence, eating no more than merely sufficient to keep the frame in a state of subsistence. With horses labouring under such infirmity or imperfection, there is no relief to be obtained, but from a proper file, and the hand of a steady operator.
WOODCOCK.—This is a bird of passage, with a simply variegated plumage, having a long bill, peculiarly appropriated to the purposes of insertion and suction, from which its subsistence is principally derived: it is rather inferior in size to the partridge, varying in weight, according to the condition it may be in, and the season in which it is killed, being rarely less than eight, or more than eleven ounces in the scale. They arrive in this country some time in the month of October; but whether early or late, depends entirely upon the prevalence of the winds by which they are brought over. The east and north-easterly winds (particularly when accompanied by fogs) are the most favourable for their arrival: reaching our shores fatigued with flight, they drop under any tree, shrub,or bush, bearing the appearance of covert: after rest and refreshment, they in longer flights disperse themselves in the different woods, copses, shaws, and hedge-rows, in various parts of the country, selecting chiefly such parts as seem best calculated for the singularity of their accommodation. They are by no means remarkable for remaining long in one place, or even in the same neighbourhood; on the contrary, they never continue more than ten or twelve days in any particular spot, though favourably adapted to their reception.
.—This is a bird of passage, with a simply variegated plumage, having a long bill, peculiarly appropriated to the purposes of insertion and suction, from which its subsistence is principally derived: it is rather inferior in size to the partridge, varying in weight, according to the condition it may be in, and the season in which it is killed, being rarely less than eight, or more than eleven ounces in the scale. They arrive in this country some time in the month of October; but whether early or late, depends entirely upon the prevalence of the winds by which they are brought over. The east and north-easterly winds (particularly when accompanied by fogs) are the most favourable for their arrival: reaching our shores fatigued with flight, they drop under any tree, shrub,or bush, bearing the appearance of covert: after rest and refreshment, they in longer flights disperse themselves in the different woods, copses, shaws, and hedge-rows, in various parts of the country, selecting chiefly such parts as seem best calculated for the singularity of their accommodation. They are by no means remarkable for remaining long in one place, or even in the same neighbourhood; on the contrary, they never continue more than ten or twelve days in any particular spot, though favourably adapted to their reception.
The woodcock is a very clumsy waddling walker, as is the case with every kind of fowl having short legs and long wings: when flushed, he rises heavily from the ground, and makes a considerable noise before he can gather wind sufficient for flight. If found in a rushy spot, a ditch, or a hedge-row, from whence he is obliged to present anopenmark, he frequently slowly skims over the ground, and is very easily shot; as, indeed, is the case elsewhere, provided any obstruction does not arise from intervening branches of trees, and boughs of underwood, which, in cock and covert shooting, must always be expected. After a plentiful arrival, they afford excellent sport, and may be found as well with pointers as with spaniels, (the pointers being hunted in the covert with bells:) but cock shooting, with spaniels is almost universally preferred, as it is more enlivening and exhilarating tohearthe spaniels occasionally inquest, rather than pursue sopleasing a scene with the solemnity of a general silence.
WOODPECKER—was a horse whose blood and performances rendered him, as a racer, and stallion, of the most distinguished celebrity. He was bred by Sir C. Davers; foaled in 1773; got byHerod, dam (Miss Ramsden) byOld Cade, grand-dam by Lord Lonsdale's BayArabian. His winnings are now become too remote to give in the detail. As a stallion, his progeny are infinite; amongst the principal of which the following have been the most conspicuous. In 1789,Bullfinchwon 300 guineas, 100 guineas, 20 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, and 50 guineas, at Newmarket.Chanticleer, 650 guineas, 500 guineas, and 400 guineas, at Newmarket.Cormorant, 135 guineas, 62 guineas, 40 guineas, 200 guineas, 300 guineas, 62½ guineas, 300 guineas, and 75 guineas, at Newmarket.Hawk, 100 guineas, 150 guineas, and 50 guineas, at Newmarket.Seagull, 35 guineas, and 800 guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, 62 guineas, 250 guineas, 200 guineas, 20 guineas, 200 guineas, 400 guineas, 160 guineas, and 300 guineas, at Newmarket.Swallow, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket.Woodlark, 50l.at Stockbridge, and the King's Hundred Guineas, at Winchester, and Salisbury.
—was a horse whose blood and performances rendered him, as a racer, and stallion, of the most distinguished celebrity. He was bred by Sir C. Davers; foaled in 1773; got byHerod, dam (Miss Ramsden) byOld Cade, grand-dam by Lord Lonsdale's BayArabian. His winnings are now become too remote to give in the detail. As a stallion, his progeny are infinite; amongst the principal of which the following have been the most conspicuous. In 1789,Bullfinchwon 300 guineas, 100 guineas, 20 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, and 50 guineas, at Newmarket.Chanticleer, 650 guineas, 500 guineas, and 400 guineas, at Newmarket.Cormorant, 135 guineas, 62 guineas, 40 guineas, 200 guineas, 300 guineas, 62½ guineas, 300 guineas, and 75 guineas, at Newmarket.Hawk, 100 guineas, 150 guineas, and 50 guineas, at Newmarket.Seagull, 35 guineas, and 800 guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, 62 guineas, 250 guineas, 200 guineas, 20 guineas, 200 guineas, 400 guineas, 160 guineas, and 300 guineas, at Newmarket.Swallow, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket.Woodlark, 50l.at Stockbridge, and the King's Hundred Guineas, at Winchester, and Salisbury.
In 1790, twenty-seven of his get started, and were the winners ofseventy-eightsubscriptions,sweepstakes, matches, and plates.Batwon 100 guineas, 50 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket. A bay filly out ofCamilla, 200 guineas, 143 guineas, and 200 guineas, at the same.Buzzard, 100 guineas, 50 guineas, 200 guineas, and 200 guineas, at Newmarket.Chanticleer, 300 guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and 152 guineas, at Newmarket.Cormorant, 50l.100 guineas, 200 guineas, 400 guineas, 200 guineas, and 60 guineas, at Newmarket.Dragon, 200 guineas, 200 guineas, 200 guineas, 450 guineas, 100 guineas, 88 guineas, 45 guineas, 200 guineas, and 200 guineas, at the same.Griffin, 300 guineas, 120 guineas, and 125 guineas, at Newmarket.Isabel, 50l.100 guineas, 300 guineas, and 150 guineas, at Newmarket.Mrs. Candour, 50 guineas, 50 guineas, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at the same.Pecker, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket.Seagull, 200 guineas, 500 guineas, and the Grosvenor Stakes, at Newmarket; the Oatlands Stakes, of 100 guineas each, nineteen subscribers, and 500 guineas, at Ascot Heath; 60 guineas, 250 guineas, 200 guineas, and 300 guineas, at Newmarket; andTom Tit, 50l.at Stamford, 97l.5s.0d.at Nottingham, and 50l.at Derby.
In 1791, twenty-two of his produce started, and were winners of fifty-eight prizes.Buzzardwon 250 guineas, 200 guineas, 120 guineas, and 300guineas, at Newmarket, and two fifties at Chesterfield.Chanticleer, 150 guineas, 200 guineas, the Grosvenor Stakes, 100 guineas, and 200 guineas, at Newmarket.Cormorant, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 300 guineas, 100 guineas, and 80 guineas, at Newmarket.Dancing Master, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and 130 guineas, at Newmarket.Dragon, the Claret and Fortescue Stakes, the Jockey Club Plate, the 140 guineas, 50l.1000 guineas, the Prince's Plate, and 70 guineas, at Newmarket.Hawk, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, and 150 guineas, at Stockbridge.Isabel, the Queen's 100 guineas at Chelmsford, and the King's Plate at Lincoln.Pecker, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and the Give and Take Plate, at Newmarket.Seagull, 600 guineas at Newmarket; andTree Creeper, 200 guineas, 50 guineas, 60 guineas, and 50l.all at Newmarket. In 1792,Bustardwon 200 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 50l.and 100 guineas, at Newmarket, and 200 guineas, 37½ guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and 50 guineas, at the same.Chanticleer, 100 guineas, 500 guineas, 500 guineas, 500 guineas, and 400 guineas, at Newmarket.Dragon, 275 guineas, the Whip (with 400 guineas,) and 300 guineas, at Newmarket.Hawk, 100 guineas at Newmarket, and the Bowl at Salisbury.Ostrich, 80 guineas at Newmarket, 50l.at Brighton, and the King's Plate at Canterbury.Rover, 50 guineas, and 90 guineas, at Exeter; and 50l.at Dorchester.Tree Creeper, 100 guineas, the second class and main of the FillyStakes, and 200 guineas, at Newmarket; and the Prince's Stakes of 50 guineas each,half forfeit, seventeen subscribers, at Brighton.
In 1793,Buzzardwon the Craven Stakes, 200 guineas, 200 guineas, 60 guineas, 100 guineas, and 60 guineas, at Newmarket; and a two year old bay filly of Lord Grosvenor's, the July Filly Stakes at Newmarket, and the Orleans Stakes at Brighton. In 1794,Buzzardwon the Craven Stakes, 50 guineas, the Jockey Club Plate, 200 guineas, 50l.and 100 guineas, at Newmarket.JackofNewbury, 50l.at Bath, 40 guineas at Tewksbury, and 60 guineas at Abingdon.Paroquet, 300 guineas at Newmarket; andSeagull, 50 guineas, 100 guineas, and 105 guineas, at the same. In 1795,Atropa(at two years old) won 400 guineas at Newmarket.Colibri, (two years old,) 50 guineas, and 75 guineas, at Brighton; 200 guineas, 100 guineas, 100 guineas, 80 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket.Ida, 100 guineas at Ascot Heath, 50l.and 50 guineas at Brighton, and 50l.at Lewes.Shoveller, 150 guineas at Ascot; andPecker, 500 guineas at Newmarket. In 1796, nine of his get started, and received nineteen prizes. In 1797, six were the winners of ten. In 1798, three only started, and were winners of five. In 1799,Vivalde, three years old, won 300 guineas, 200 guineas, 100 guineas, and 100 guineas, at Newmarket, and 100 guineas at Stamford; andThrush, only two years old, 100 guineas, 50 guineas, and 45guineas, at Newmarket. In 1800,Ephemerawon the Oaks Stakes, of 50 guineas each, (twenty-four subscribers,) at Epsom, and 50l.at Newmarket.Sophia, 100 guineas at Brighton.Thrush, 100 guineas, and 20 guineas, at Newmarket.Vivalde, 200 guineas, and 45 guineas, at Newmarket; 50l.at Epsom; and 50l.at Reading. In 1801,Crazy Poetesswon 100 guineas at Lewes.Cocoa-Tree, the Brocket Stakes of 100 guineas at Brocket Hall; 100 guineas, 75 guineas, and 50 guineas, at Newmarket; andAnna Maria, 60 guineas at Epsom. In 1802,Mysterywon 60 guineas, and 50l.at Goodwood, and 50 guineas at Epsom;Paulowinning a 50l.plate at Northampton. So that, upon a review of Woodpecker's progeny, he has proved himself inferior to but very few of his predecessors.