THE STAFF COLLEGE DRAG HUNT, l895"6. faster : Capt. Hon. H. A. LAWRENCE, 17th Lancers. Lieut. J. A. E. MACBEAN, R. Dub. Fus. Capt. N. H. VERTUE, The Buffs. ^ecretatp : Capt. H. J. DUCANE, R.A. Tuesday, January 21st, 1896. Opening meet at " The Greyhound," Finch-Hampstead. Very large field, including a strong deputation from the various cramming establishments, well represented on Doman's " best." General satisfaction at seeing our popular Master out once more, looking none the worse for his broken collar-bone. We form up in line in the large meadow near the Church, and, after due marshalling by our Sec. (" Sandy"), charge ventre a terre at the first fence. Our cavalry representatives are visibly impressed by our style ! At the fence Capt. Anderson, on a fiery untamed, comes an imperial cropper, and is unfortunate enough to break his collar- bone. On we speed up the hill, and then to the left into the low-lying ground ; on the way our Sec. leaves his hat on a bough, perhaps a gift for a local scarecrow, we all know how ready he is to do the farmers a good turn (no aspersions on the hat). As we reached the low ground, the going becomes heavy ; we soon, however, come on to sound turf at West Court, and finish the line with great dash at Lea Farm. ( i ) At the very last fence "Joe" comes to grief, but is none the worse for the encounter. Our " Special " was particularly struck by our " Major's " finish. He reports the latter would certainly have won the race, had the rest of the field not been in some five or ten minutes before ! The Junior Division mustered very strong. Is this explained by the following extract from the Pink 'un, January 25th, 1896? "They have a new Riding Master at Sandhurst, who commenced operations by giving his class a couple of day's 'trotting out' without stirrups. Most of them say that they would have preferred a little holiday on the rack." The second line from Westwood Farm to Langley Common proved heavy, and there was a certain amount of grief. Our Sec. " bumped " a little too heavily over a drop, and was in consequence unable to finish the line. A gallant Major of the Junior Division parted company at the same drop, and was seen running at top speed across the plough after his mount, which considerately tied itself up to a gate and allowed itself to be caught. The vision of a fashion-plate in motion was exhilarating, to say the least of it. One or two minor casualties completed the list, and added to the already large number of mud-covered backs and crumpled hats. ( 2 ) ^ V M^ > ^ 6 I r 2£S? §£ w *2?tf ^£2^ 'r*r Friday, January 24th, 1896. Meet at Caesar's Camp. An enormous field, swelled by Crammer's boys, would-be thrusters and hard riders from the " Queens." The line ran through Easthampstead Park, over the rails, up the hill, over the big ditch, then, left-handed, down over the ditch again, near Col. Peel's house, and then over capital ground to Holme Grange. Hounds were never so pressed, the field rode close up to their sterns. At the big rails there was a crashing of timber, and 20 yards of post and rails went down as before a cyclone. [Hasty demolitions in the field. Staff College course.] At the first crossing of the ditch " Kirk " and others covered themselves with mud and glory, and some twenty of the field remained on the wrong side. At the second, the second whip, on ( 5 ) his new purchase, came first, and with a struggle and a scramble got over the yawning chasm. Earle, on " Starveacre," followed, and then the fun commenced. In went a Crammer's boy, in went Percival, in went the thrusters of the " Queens," the head boy meant to go in, but the mare didn't, she firmly planted her feet on the brink and the Major sprawled on his back in the hedge. The ditch was now a seething mass of men and horses, among them Spearman and Ewbank, who, half-an-hour later, pulled their mounts over. By this time the fortunate negotiators were well on their way in the second line ; here grief also was conspicuous, and when the " Green Man," Easthampstead, was at last reached, some twenty-five of a field of seventy had been in close touch with mother earth. Two boys from Shinfield went home to their mother sadder, wiser and dirtier men. ( 6 ) -J* -«*♦ /~*€T ■%t}' a/far -#i>e ~&if cS^fc^ £, &■ Tuesday, January 28th, 1896. First Line. Evendon's Farm to Barkham Rectory. A field of some forty riders assembled to run what was expected to be a " rotten " line, but which turned out to be a most enjoyable one. The line ran north of Barkham Church, sharp to the left, west of the church over the road, down to the brook in the meadows near Barkham Square, then right-handed over the road again, the second time over the brook and up to the Rectory. Very early in the run the junior Junior lost his hireling, and did capital time on his own legs for the rest of the line. »v .» / * / ^ * ■ / > / /^ t & < L 'S^Wjt b Jf) ~*^f Cdf /'■> Fc C^LC&. Captain Findlay seemed to prefer jumping into the brook rather than over it, and administered a drenching to one or two interested onlookers, whose keenness overcame their discretion. (9) The second line ran from the " Bramshill Hunt " P.H. over the road, due south to West Court, where Mr. Buchanan very kindly provided tea, drinks and a gallery of some twenty ladies ; the latter took up a position flanking the last fence over which the field came in a long extended line, among them the junior Junior again on his own legs, a means of locomotion he is apparently partial to. Our Major was amongst the last arrivals, having stopped en route to rub his nose in the mud. On arrival he was the subject of much sympathy of the fair, whom alone the brave deserve. This evening, a Staff College Officer, dining in Berkshire, was a participant in the following conversation : — She (whom he took in to dinner) : " I saw the Staff College drag to-day, I never saw such a rag-tag and bob-tailed assemblage in my life, such poor riders, too ! " He : " Yes. Not much of a lot, are they ? " She : " No ! Awful bounders ! " He : " Yes — er, I am one of them." Confusion and dismay on the part of the fair one. ( 10 ) Friday, January 31st, 1896. Meet, Gas Works, Wokingham. Owing to the energetic action of our Sec. and the Jacksonianlike mystery preserved by all concerned, the field was a smallish one, and consisted nearly entirely of Staff College men. The line was through Tangley Park over the water, left-handed over the Tangley Brook and then right-handed to Lock's Farm. The casualties were not numerous, and, bar one, presented no humourous features. Mr. Earle, however, on Starveacre, who was not in a water-jumping mood, after much difficulty at the small brook, arrived at the second to meet with an absolute refusal. Again and again he gallantly drove his mount at it, and with equal pertinacity Starveacre refused ; at last, coming sideways at it, the horse, unable to swerve quickly enough, reared, and backwards into the brook came horse and rider. For a moment they dis- appeared, and then rose to the surface, Starveacre belly up, Earle ( 13 ) ditto. Out they scrambled, but unfortunately on the wrong side. Starveacre, having hobbled himself, was soon caught, and another attempt was made, this time with success, and they galloped on, but too late, the field had already swept on out of sight, and sorrowfully homeward the pair made their way. The second line, from Waterloo Crossing to Marshfield House, was without incident, bar one or two refusals into and out of the Wokingham-Bracknell road. " Perky," on a grey musical box, spent some time in the road, but eventually got over, to repeat the refusing process at each fence. Some ten minutes after the arrival of the hounds at the finish, a noise in the distance betrayed his approach, and he arrived just in time to receive the congratulations of the field on his dogged persistency. The going was sound throughout, and both lines were voted excellent. During the run Major Riddell's horse refused, as also did an outsider's horse close behind. On this — the exchange of greetings show on sketch opposite. ( 14 ) % \ s U ^-"- - . ^j3^Sf-r Jk.'tf^ys 4/' »rj>A . - V Friday, February 14 th, 1896. St. Valentine's Day. Meet at the " Rifle Volunteer," Emmbrook. A field of twenty, some six outsiders. Among those looking on was a dis- tinguished general officer (father of one of the hard-riding, straight- going contingent), who evinced not only the keenest interest in the " Drag," but also in every good-looking woman in Berkshire. This latter interest prevented his seeing the assumption at a fence on the part of his son of a somewhat unorthodox position, "but that," as Kipling says, " is another story." The hounds were laid on north of the railway, and ran N.E. through rather heavy country, over the Emm, across a road, then behind Bill Hill, over another road, and so to Church Farm, Hurst. The Emm stopped the field, already some distance behind the hounds, owing to the severe restraint imposed by the acting Field Master, who only allowed it to start as the stern of the tail hound vanished from sight. A gallant Cavalryman, who would not be denied, however, stole a march and got off well in front. Eventually all got safely over, but the stoppage queued the field, and from the Emm onwards a straggling line of struggling horse- men rode hard to get up. ( 29) It was originally intended to run the second line from Church Farm to Matthews' Green, but tidings of an outlying fox in one of the Bill Hill fields led to the substitution of a fresh trail to Matthew's Green Farm. Gater's ever ready and resourceful energy was equal to the occasion, and after a brief consultation with the Master, he was off on the substituted line, which was, unfortunately, pro- ductive of much disaster. At the very first fence Riddell's horse came down ; result — a splintered collar bone. At the second, Gogarty's horse, being a bit out of hand, taking off too soon, fell into the ditch on the landing side, and the rider got off with a dislocated shoulder. Into the road more grief: Allenby on his head. Out of it a Crammer's boy down, a pal on top of him. At the next fence the first whip's horse, seeing a half-open gate, made for it, stopped short, and merrily on goes the whip, clearing the gate in excellent style. Wildman Lushington from the other College determines not to be outdone, and stands, not on ceremony, but on his head, and two more sucking Napoleons from Fox's establishment swell the list of " partees." The Junior Division, rising to the occasion, are, we believe, presenting an ambulance as their gift. It will carry out drinks and return with the wounded and empties. ( 3o ) JsoaA: o;.- ^A /?. e t x.. _ v , noseif <2 '- ■ ■ fit" >2 S f ^''--^ -7 J 7 :-^ -r^ ^5" ^^-^ "a//' #Cu- > v Tuesday, February 18th, 1896. Meet at Hawthorn Hill. A field of about twenty. A capital line to Cokeley Bridge, the ground for the most part riding nice and light and the fences negociable in many places. We regret that the already large number of casualties was further swollen. Johnson, riding with the dash and spirit characteristic of the Chestnut Battery, got a nasty fall and was badly kicked by his horse. He will, we fear, not be able to come out for another run for some time. ( 35 ) The second line, commencing just East of the Manor House, took a Southerly course over four fields, crossed the rails, and then swung due East to West End Farm, making a first-class run. Certain riders, who knew the line and had already tested the resisting power of the rails, showed much discretion in allowing the light cavalry to get well ahead and secure the crossing by breaking the top rail. 36 Friday, February 21st, 1896. Meet at Forest Lodge. A large " field," swelled by numerous first appearances on the part of the Junior Division, which mustered in force. It was dismissed riding school yesterday. The first line ran through Billingbear Park, then turned westwards to finish at Park Farm, Charity Wood. At the first fence there was a deal of refusing and craning, Joe had a fall, and at the third fence two saddles were emptied, neither to be re-filled during the run. One of those who vacated his seat was seen just before the dissolution tearing madly across the field (hat on the back of his head, face set, stirrups flying, horse out of hand) to encounter the obstacle — crash, bang — and the rider hit the ground hard. The plough was soft, no bones were broken, .though a certain amount of soil was trans- ferred that evening from Berkshire to Surrey. One member of the Scientific Corps got as far as the first lane, there to remain until, his patience being exhausted, he determined to get out by a gate and so home to tea. At the last fence another Junior's horse came down and the rider was badly shaken. He, following the example of Mr. Gough's interviewers, was insured. The fall was caused by riding in a martingale without stops on the reins, which caught by the buckles on the rings of the martingale. The Master of the Ripley-Knaphill Harriers, riding a bold jumper which could gallop, was bang up in front all the way. The second line, from Charity Wood to Warren House, brought out a smallish " field " to enjoy a capital gallop over a good country, ( 37 ) made, however, a trifle heavy by the previous night's rain. No serious casualties marred the run, though a Junior was seen hovering for a space in a somewhat precarious position, and the rider came into the last road stirrupless and abroad. A sporting lady in a trap offered even money about his dismissal. Fortunately for her shilling she found no takers. Phillips and Tod had falls quite close to the finish. "The Army," we are told, "swore terribly in Flanders." It has not yet altogether forgotten its traditions, and the air assumed a very blue appearance in the neighbourhood of the second fence due to a cross ; it was, however, cleared by the soft answer which turneth away wrath, and amicable relationship between the curser and the cursed was thoroughly re-established before the next fence was reached. On the way to the meet the Drag Secretary and two bicyclists attempted " Green Lane " ; as the former was in a cart and the lane quite a foot deep in mud, he no doubt quite appreciated the remark of Jackson's Staff Officer about roads with their bottoms knocked out. See sketch on opposite page. Tuesday, February 25th, 1896. On account of the severe frost of last night there was, for the first time this season, no meet, and those of us who for some time past have been earnestly anxious to attack Noiseville, devoted the afternoon to the collection of straws wherewith to make bricks for the " Memoire." ( 38 ) .'/ rite* Sevuj «■• J**-*~/i-» <*- **- r.-, v>zm -Jrr^S /7wj V< ,4. iTU. *w.» *>:.&■ a./" ."^T *-» 1- i V • /• . . # v. \" -; -* >^™> / 9» /sr /y# 7 )y awt&r dDr&z &&csre* ~***ri ^: § 5. C. OjLc-r. .**/. i?u?^*e S H-'^ ^^ -Z^fJ r-^ fr<~*. *- £±- 1>*~/C £. /hi * £fi~o*~ 9 £ c _ t . f £rT~*!sr* t. c£<*~y> ■U'S/*-* S" >*- ."i-i-a—^-. 0t*~ <£ ) 9^-<^ j£*. i-*^»- S++ X^*-*- h*rj* ^ >^ 4_" **■ £Z-o 2-t-f 7u U-~f &/ 2^- >JC g <7)c/.r Ou-r Jpzct-a-i- C^ 6d, forri-&-H><^fue~. Friday, February 28th, 1896 . Meet at Emmet's Nest. First line to Waterloo Lodge. An Ai line over grass, riding very light. Incidents, however, plentiful. At the very first fence Slo's horse refused, barged into Joe's and blocked the line. No less than seven riders accounted for their late appearance on the score that Slo's refusal (not their ability to sit tight) had put them off. Cavalry, gunners, infantry and sappers, all contributed to the "fun." Tommy was seen in the early part of the run in a very precarious position, reminding one somewhat of the attitude assumed by the Comanche braves discharging arrows under their horses bellies. Another dashing gunner, minus his hat, finished the line, and then re-rode it backwards to seek his lost property. Jack took a most magnificent toss somewhat of a voluntary nature (?) Perky on " Calliope " had a fall, but finished in grand form with all the honours of war, bands playing, &c. The Indian contingent was in great form to-day. One of them (of the "Foot") encountered a three-foot ditch, made a beautiful somersault, and landed in the middle of it. The acrobatic agility was simply marvellous, this officer is bound to make an income if he charges gate money for his exhibitions. Another — cavalryman — imitated certain gymnastic exercises on the wooden horse, we would recommend him not to retain his reins when he does this in future, the chances of being trodden on are thereby largely increased. From conversation overheard in the run we understand an officer came all the way from Woking prison to oblige " the pride of our cavalry " by jumping on him or his horse. The latter was not at all nice in the way he expressed his thanks ! One of our correspondents in a donkey shay driven by two ladies saw most of the run, and arrived at the finish with the tail of the field. Poor old moke ! The " Special's " eagerness to find copy ( 47 ) could be measured by the welts. An action by the S.P.C.A. is con- fidently expected, but the " Special " is so well versed in Police Court procedure that a conviction is doubtful. The last jump, an " in and out " of a green lane, was productive of many refusals. At one time there were eight students crowded together in a small group and endeavouring to get their horses over ; a process which involved considerable loss of time and many inartistic poses. The second line was from the wood just north of Easthampstead Park to Borough Green. The line was as good as the first one, the only tricky part of it was the roads, three or four proved almost insurmountable obstacles to some of the field. A riderless horse (Anderson's) showed to great advantage in the run, it rode quite its own line, never made a mistake, and never attempted to ride close to its fellow quadrupeds. An unfortunate Crammer's boy, whose horse zigzagged considerably at its fences, opened Sladen's oath box, he was so alarmed by the volley he received that he at once fell into the ditch ; Spearman, half or perhaps a whole horse's length behind, jumped on the top of him cursing the fallen hero volubly for daring to get in the way. We may remark, en passant, that the Fusilier had been the recipient of similar attention in the earlier part of the run. Perhaps the prettiest sight of the run was the approach of the three juniors and a Crammer's boy at the last road, all refused with absolute unanimity, the performance had been rehearsed three or four times, and our correspondent moved on. We learn they eventually got over. In both lines spectators saw a struggling procession of riders, about a mile long, engaged in what appeared to be a game of follow my leader. To prevent some of the prevalent over-riding and accidents, it might be wise to arrange for a few more leaders in future. 48 ) Tuesday, March 3rd, 1896. Meet at Warren House. Field of thirty-five assembled for a run to the " Green Man," Hurst. A bit of a blizzard put a stop to all dawdling, and hounds got very punctually to work. The expectations of a heavy line were fully realised, the rain during the night had thoroughly soaked the ground, which at the best of times rides a bit sticky. Hounds were laid on in the plough to the west of Warren House, ran northwards past Warren House Farm, through gates over the road east of Broad Common Farm and then west of Haines Hill to the finish. The nature of the jumps compensated for the heavy going. A large crowd of yokels planted themselves near the water at the finish, and cheered, occasionally derisively, the performances of the riders. We did our best to give the spectators a show, the hunt servants assisting nobly. Mac and his horse arranged to give them two separate baths. Phipps might have been taken for a saint as he hovered for a moment in the air, crowned with a halo of spray, but his expression (s), as he began to realise the temperature of the water, spoilt the illusion. Birkbeck's horse jumped straight into the brook and breasted the far bank, the rider, clinging tightly to the reins, described a most effective somersault round the buckle as pivot. Slo's grey charged a bank, but, failing to force it, remained ( 49 ) embedded in it ; Slo belied his name and hurried on ; his subsequent action reminded one of the sailor in Punch who, finding himself in a similar predicament, muttered, " Its all right for me, mate, but how the blankety blank are you to get over ? " Second line, " Green Man " to Loddon Bridge Farm. We threw off again opposite the " Green Man," and ran at a fair pace over i^ miles of pleasant hunting country, running into our quarry in the open. Funny the way this happens so frequently with the pack ! For the latter half of this line the Master was accompanied 1>\ only two other riders, the rest of the field having had to choose between going round through a gate and negociating a somewhat curious obstacle. The fact was that a certain Gunner's horse had landed belly up in a ditch at the only possible spot in the fence and the owner was scouring the country for a convenient cork to stop up the plated tube in the said horse's throat, with a view to save him from drowning. On our way back we met a disconsolate Wokingham M.D. on horseback, hurrying back, apparently very aggrieved that we hadn't provided him with better sport. ( 5o ) i K 1 * s tog: VI ^ 7/£ Cog&ia^S / £~ —7.-7/ * / sij*. Thursday, March 5th, 1896. The Draghounds met to-day, because of the Grand Military Meet. Bean Oak Farm, near Buckhurst. A large field. The line was a capital one with every variety of jumps. It ran N.E., then to the left up to Billingbear E. Lodge, sharp left again over the sunken fence, to finish in the next field. Refusals, as usual, commenced early. One bold fencer put his rider down, and, hurrying on, gave the field an exhibition of his lepping powers. This gave H. E. W. a rare opportunity of showing of what mettle, or shall we say " metal," he was made. By dint of much shouting he gets a yokel to stop the runaway, swops mounts, and sends his own (a slow mover) to the downcast hero, with a message that " he'd wait for him at the finish." The language which this kindly message evoked brought back to many of us tender reminescences of sketching on horseback. ( 53 ) The sunken fence puzzled several of the horses. One made for an adjacent gate, deposited his rider over it, stopping himself behind to view the performances of his fellow quadrupeds. The rider followed his example, standing for a few seconds on his head for the purpose. Almost all those who slowed before the jump failed to negociate it. Even Bramley had a fall C b, who was out as a spectator, kindly volunteered to give the refusers a "lead," unfortunately he hadn't previously consulted his horse on the subject and the latter proved contrary. C b to avoid a scene wisely gave in and retired to the gate. The second line was as good as the first, and there were no casualties, though refusing was the order of the day. De T was a bit off jumping, and seemed bent on forcing other horses to follow his example by crossing them at the jumps. Two head dresses, a hat and a Crammer boy's cap, besides several odd spurs, were lost on the course, and are now advertised for. We hear Willoughby is offering excellent prices for part worn pairs of the latter. ( 54 ) fc S.C.. C**it*.*<**Zu~. , ZuJ- tlt.a.*t*<) \/* " V pn*U nteU te\v/-, 7'7» fir ^^fe^ ^* i ftk (rate* ""• TreveT see?^ *rz7A. JQ-ra-g ^Haa Tuesday, March 10th, 1896. Meet at Ashridge Farm. A very large field swollen by thrusters from Aldershot, Crammer's boys, and others. A beautiful day. A large concourse of onlookers in carriages, on " bikes," on foot. Hounds laid on to the east of the road running from the Farm to Ashridge Wood. A warm scent and away they stream. At the first fence, a mild obstacle, Knox and a representative of the Indian Staff Corp with two others are stopped; the two others get over eventually, but Knox and his companion in trouble are not so fortunate, and are unable to get up in time to share in Mr. Vere Alfrey's splendid hospitality. Hounds, three fences further on, cross the road, and so does the field, at least, all but one. He, after blocking the traffic for a space and refusing a kindly offer of a whip applied extraneously, rides up the road and rejoins at the check. Starveacre, jumping like a stag, unships his rider, who, with much agility lands on his feet, benefitting by Major Hodgin's instruction is on again. in a trice and over the thither fence. Allenby and Burrows, riding wide of the hounds, find an extra obstacle between them and the pack. What matter ! Two such brilliant fencers negociated easily, but the riders are nearly absolomed by the over-hanging branches of a tree. About three fields from home Maude's horse blundered into a very blind ditch, and the second whip met with a serious accident to his horse, which overreached so badly as to completely sever the back ( 57 ) sinews. The going more particularly towards the check was very heavy, and most of the horses showed signs of distress. Heaving flanks and quivering caudal appendages bore eloquent testimony to the holding nature of the Berkshire loam. Mrs. Sturgess, riding " Candahar," showed us, as usual, a very neat back. A somewhat attenuated field started for the second line, which ran over very heavy country from near the " Crown Inn.*' Dunt Lane, to Ashridge Wood House. In this line there was some grief. Blair and Willoughby taking the second fence, which looked rather harmless, at a too moderate pace, found themselves in the ditch on the far side. Towards the finish, where the small triangular copse runs alongside the road, a wearer of " Trews " was dragged off his steed by the thick under- growth, and now has a tartan pattern on his back. F. Walker, in the last field, had the misfortune to lame his horse by an overreach, but he found, let us hope, some solace in the excellent drink provided by the hospitable owner of Ashridge Wood House. Tommy, riding a Najdian child of the desert, was beautifully carried. The pony must have thought himself once again in " Araby the blest." We congratulate our old friend " Joe " Anderson on his selection. ( 58 ;. 5^ m *xr 9. \ 3 Friday, March 13th, 1896. Meet at Langley Common. Field of about 25, including our friend Mr. Pigg, who was seen earnestly coaching his jockey for the Farmers' Race. Throughout the course the field were on a broad front, and there was no hustling. The going was heavy, and many horses were fairly done by the end of the line. There were certainly not more than two falls, and at the roll call at Bannister's Farm (the finish) there were few or no absentees. A large contingent of the juniors were so engrossed with a tactical scheme they were unable to get out in time, while others only got up for the second line by dint of much hammering on the "hard high.'' Second Line. We started in the water meadows below Bannister's for a semi-circular course to Finchhampstead Church. The first three-quarters of a mile was in the Blackwater Valley, and was very heavy. The last half rode well, especially the turf below the Church, the memorable scene of our cavalry charge at the beginning of the year. The most serious obstacle was the fence out of the road by the schools. This proved too much for one sturdy whip. Owing to the nearness of the Point to Point the bookmakers were out in force on horse, foot, "bikes," and carts of sorts, the field seemed, however, to have scented their presence, and there was a good deal of nursing. Several of the hard riding juniors, never- theless, thrusted well to the front, and we think that in the race it will not be a case of seniores priores. Spectators had a good view of the finish from the high ground near the Church, and were lavish with their remarks on the horsemanship of the riders as they came over the last two flying fences ; one artistic onlooker noticed one or two pretty views effectively framed between horse and rider. Most of the remarks were, however, distinctly complimentary, and of these the rider of a big grey horse had the lion's share. It is hard to believe that he was a novice at the game at the beginning of last year. ( 61 ) Monday, March 16th, 1896. Meet at Evendon's. Owing to the absence of the Juniors at Shoebury we only had a field of ten riders, excluding Master and whips. We ran from the farm in almost a bee line to Barkham Square, sharp to the right round the house, down hill over the brook, then to the left over the brook again and on to the check. The going was on the whole very good, and the pace fast. Bram and the Father of Sorrows were in great form, riding neck and neck almost throughout the line. Bram's victory by a head provoked much applause except from a bookie, who hastily altered his price from 66 to io to i against. The effect of horses jumping on the banks at Barkham Common was very similar to that created by a burst of a shell. The spectators from the Square saw more than one rider suddenly surrounded by a cloud of dust. A rider in apricot breeches had much trouble. His horse, as we know from the experience of last year's Point to Point, has a big bump of locality. He soon recognised the line and some old enemies in the way of blind ditches, and determined to let his rider know that he wasn't taking any. It required all Sydney's gentle (?) persuasive powers to make him change his mind. About the rest of the line I have no criticism to make, it is logical and shows — What are we saying ! Damn that memoir, it absolutely haunts one ! The second line from Handpost Farm to Heath End Farm, good though it was, saw a very small field, and the second whip was without a mount. No incident or accident enlivened or marred the proceedings, and though Bram did not ride, the Father of Sorrow- again gave us a taste of his mettle. ( 62 ) r$w*"JF * ' N1- Staff + College <84 Point + to + Point + Races. k> Friday, March 20th, 1896. Stewards : T. C. GARTH, Esq., M.F.H. Colonel H. J. T. HILDYARD. Lord GEORGE PRATT (Judge). Colonel C. L. PEEL. F. V. ALLFREY, Esq. (Clerk of the Scales). Captain H. J. DU CANE (Starter). Captain A. E. SANDBACH. Mr. H. LANE. Mr. G. AUCKLAND. A long line of carriages, brakes, pony carts, horsemen, bicycles and toilers on foot, wending their wet and muddy way from all points of the compass towards Mosscroft Farm, proclaimed to the Berkshire world that the 20th March was an important fixture : the day of the Staff College Point to Point Races. Never was there a more desolate, disagreeable day, the bottom was out of the clouds, and we feared out of the ground as well, and the hearts of the occupants of the brakes sank as they realised that the going would be heavy, but the falling soft. The card announced three events : — Light Weight, Heavy Weight and a Farmers' Race. After an inspection of the course from the brakes, and clear and full instructions from the Drag Secretary, the riders in the L. W. mount and are ranged in line in the field immediately south of the Memorial Stone, Marshfield House. LIGHT WEIGHT RACE. For horses unconditionally the property of Light Weight Officers at the Staff College, and that have been regularly ridden with the Drag Hounds by their owners, or by Officers at the Staff College. CATCH WEIGHTS over n st. 7 lbs. 1. Maj. W. Douglas' (R. Scots) bl m Bessie, aged Owner 2. Lt.-Col. C. R. Simpson's (Lincoln Regt.) b g The Rat (late Garryowen), aged . . . . . . • ■ • • • • • • Owner 3. Capt. J. K. Tod's (7th Beng. Cav.) b g (Irish) Mike, aged . . Owner 4. Capt. W. Ewbank's (R.E.) b m (Irish) Kathleen, aged .. .. Owner 5. Capt. A. E. Sandbach's (R.E.) b m Zenobia, aged Owner ( 65 ) 6. Mr. A. Blair's (K.O.S.B.) gr m Lady Sybil (by Scot Guard dam by Hunting Horn), 5 years .. 7. Capt. T. Capper's (E. Lane. Regt.) b g Nipper, aged 8. Capt. M. E. Willoughby's (19th B.L.) ch g S. Patrick, 6 years 9. Capt. D. Haig's (7th Hussars) b g Oyster, aged 10. Capt. H. S. Sloman's (E. Surrey Regt.) gr g Starlight, aged 11. Capt. J. M. Valentin's (Som. L.I.) ch g Paddy, aged 12. Capt. Hon. H. A. Lawrence's (17th Lancers) br g Bantam, 6 years 13. Capt. H. E. Wise's (Derbyshire Regt.) br m The Tartlet, aged . 14. Capt. N. H. Vertue's (The Buffs) ch m Nellie, aged 15. Capt. H. Jennings-Bramby's (Royal Highlanders) br m Strid Away, 5 years 16. Capt. B. Holloway's (2nd Madras Lancers) b m Kitty, 5 years . 17. Mr. D. A. Friederichs' (R.E.) br g Gossoon, aged .. 18. Capt. E. M. Perceval's (R.A.) b m Lady Ebor, 6 years 19. Capt. F. St. D. Skinner's (R. Sussex Regt.) br g No. 9, aged 20. Capt. H. Graham's D.S.O. (5th Lancers) br or bl m Ebony (b Mariner — Boris dam), aged Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner O wner Owner Owner Owner Owner The flag is lowered with an "are you ready ? go!" The Bantam and the Tartlet draw clear of the ruck and are over the first fence into the plough ; Gossoon, on the extreme right, swerves and scatters to the four winds the crowd ; Stride Away, hard held, swerves suddenly at the fence, his rider takes a deep breath of the newly turned plough, and the horse goes on to seriously hamper the leaders. The favourite just escapes being rolled over, so sudden is the swerve. When the first road is reached the " field " is already strung out, but the Bantam, Kathleen, the Nipper, the Oyster and the Tartlet are all in a cluster until just before Ashridge Wood Farm is reached, when the Bantam comes down, the Tartlet ditto at the next fence. Paddy now passes the fallen ones, who are soon up and striving hard to rejoin the leaders. The Tartlet lame, ungalloped and unfit reaches them only to be stopped by the heavy going in the wheatfield ; here she is joined by Nellie and the Bantam, and more or less in company the road is crossed just as the leaders swing to the left at the flag for home. Haig now takes the Oyster to the front, Paddy passes the Nipper, and in this order the last field is entered. Despite every effort, no change is effected. Kathleen, under the "bleeders," gallantly struggles, but fails to get a place, the Bantam and the Tartlet are pulled up and Nellie passes them. ( 66 ) Mike gives Toddie a fall. Blair arrived with a concertinaed hat, Kitty takes her rider into a tree. No. 9, fond of water, jumps bang into a duck pond to disappear, and No. 9 becomes No. 16 in the race. The horse " lost to sight, to memory dear," led its jockey to believe him "gone before." Rising from the mud he shouted lustily " catch my horse." No. 9 wanted no catching for the duck pond had effectually done it. Zenobia finished behind the Master's mount, and Bessie and Starlight wend their way slowly but surely home together. In this race the best horse won, and we congratulate the Oyster upon having so good a man up. Though the going in parts was certainly heavy many fields rode surprisingly light, the fences were fair hunting obstacles, and the course well chosen. Though there were several falls no one suffered, and one horse, lame up to the day of the race, was restored to com- parative soundness. There is seemingly nothing like work for lame- ness. HEAVY WEIGHT RACE. For horses unconditionally the property of Heavy Weight Officers at the Staff College, and that have been regularly ridden with the Drag Hounds by their Owners, or by Officers at the Staff College. CATCH WEIGHTS over 14 st. 1. Capt. G. T. Forestier- Walker's (R. A.) br g Pilot, aged .. .. Owner 2. Capt. F. S. Maude's (Coldstream Guards) br m Hazel (by Lord Gough — darn unknown), aged .. .. .. .. .. Owner 3. Capt. W. T. Furse's (R.A.) br g Munster (by Traverser — dam by Arthur), 5 years Owner 4. Capt. H. G. Burrow's (R.A.) br g Greatheart (by Tom Tit), 6 years Owner 5. Capt. J. R. F. Sladen's (E. Yorks. Regt.) ch g Barrabbas, 5 years Owner 6. Mr. S. Earle's (Coldstream Guards) br g Starveacre, aged . . Owner 7. Capt. F. de B. Young's (6th B.C.) b g Zephyr, aged . . . . Owner 8. Capt. A. H. Barthorp's (Northamptonshire Regt.) grg Grey Friar, 6 years . . 9. Capt. P. R. Phipps (Dorset Regt.) ch m Wedding Peal, aged 10. Capt. G. N. Kirkpatrick (R.E.) b g Chester, aged 11. Capt. H. S. Walker's (Scottish Rifles) ch g Marshal Saxe, aged. . •12. Capt. H. E. S. Phillips' (Welsh Regt.) br g Dandy, aged 13. M. J. A. MacBean's (R.D. Fusilier) b g Richmond (by Hampton Court — dam by Gunboat), 5 years . . . . 14. Capt. E. H. Allenby's (6th Dragoons) bl g Charcoal, aged 15. Capt. C. E. Spearman's (R.M. Fusiliers) b g De Tompkyns, 5 years For this event fourteen horses faced the flag. The flag is lowered. They're off! They come ! The field is sweeping on. A sway in the crowd — a murmuring hum ; They're here ! They're past ! They're gone ! Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner Owner (69) Barabbas jumped into his bridle and is first at the fence only to fall. Hazel, not yet warmed up, will not have it, and is out of the race. Pilot takes up the running to avoid having his wind shut off by flung back mud. Dandy in close attendance, the remainder "in waiting." In this order Ashridge Wood Farm is reached, here weight and pace tell, and the leaders come back to their " field." Barabbas is again up. Chester, who has been refusing, now joins the cluster. Richmond, going steadily and well, like the good horse he is, close behind. The rider of Grey Friar now sets him going, makes up his ground in the wheatfield, and just at the turn for home assumes the lead. Out of the road Pilot falls, and Munster, ridden rather wide to the left, comes bravely on. At last the second fence from home is reached. Grey Friar, too much to the right, forces the rider of Richmond to charge the biggest place in the fence, the horse pecks and the backers of the favourite see their money in the air, but their feelings are relieved as "Mac" gallantly recovers in time to take the last fence; and now they are at it. The whalebone whistles, the steel is red ! Grey Friar and Richmond are making a race of it, when, like a bolt from the blue, on the extreme left comes Munster galloping strong with lots in hand. Chester appears on the right. Just too late ! Munster passes Grey Friar, but Richmond does not shirk, and after a good race first passes the post. Close behind the four leaders come Barabbas, Wedding Peal, De Tomkyns, and Pilot hard by. Next appears Dandy and Zephyr, followed by Marshall Saxe and Great Heart. Starveacre and Hazel both pulled up, come in together. ( 7o ) A splendid race, and rarely has been seen at any Point to Point Meeting a more exciting or better ridden finish. Horses with plenty in hand, riders strong and firm in seat. They're neck and neck, they're head and head, They're stroke for stroke in the running, The whalebone whistles, the steel is red, Nor shirking as yet, nor shunning. One effort, Munster, the blood you boast Should struggle when nerves are strained, With a rush on the post, by a neck at the most The verdict, no doubt, might be gained. ( 71 ) FARMERS' RACE. For horses that have been for two months the property of Farmers over whose land the Staff College Drag Hounds have hunted. To be riden by them, their sons, or persons employed on their farms (to be approved by the stewards), or by Officers at the Staff College. CATCH WEIGHTS over 12 St. 1. Mr. G. Auckland's b g The Baby, aged Capt. Wise 2. Mr. J. R. Gould's b g Tommy, 5 years . . . . Mr. J. Gould, jun. 3. Mr. H. Lane's b m Susan, aged Mr. Claude Garrard 4. Mr. G. A. Pigg's Major, aged Capt. Perceval 5. Mr. G. Bowyer's br g Victor, 4 years Mr. A. J. Collins 6. Mrs. E. Lewis' ch m Eudora, 6 years Mr. D. Lewis 7. Mr. J. Cox's roan g Sir Charles, 5 years Capt. Thompson All the entries started. Eudora led over the first fence, which the Baby, unaccustomed to being ridden fast at his fences, refused to jump more circumspectly. Down the headland, over the road, into the water sodden meadow they come ; safely out of it and then Tommy's mount falls. On they sweep over the rails and into the second road. Here the Baby thinks it time to strike for home, but is persuaded to change his mind. Ashridge Wood Farm is rounded, Eudora still leading. Sir Charles now passes the Baby, engaged in refusing a wet ditch. With the aid of a sapper he is got over, but the sapper in restoring the rider's whip falls into the ditch and is nearly drowned with water this time. Poor Miller ! Sir Charles takes another toss and a little further on provides the dentist with a job. Eudora, closely attended by Victor, leads at the last fence, goes the wrong side of a flag and pays forfeit. Major second. Susan comes down in the last road and Mr. Claude Garrard is unfortunately kicked and badly hurt. Mr. Auckland, whose horse, Golden Drop, was entered, and on which the rider of the Baby was to have had the mount, has our sympathy, for the horse would in all probability have won. We are glad to be able to add that our most sporting bookies, the well-established firm of Earle, de Gruyther, were able to save themselves by a small amount, though it hardly repaid them for their great trouble. Our gratitude to them for providing interest and amusement, and our appreciation of their magnificent odds and their sportsmanlike conduct will, we hope, add, if only a little, to their satisfaction. ( 72 ) Monday, March 23rd, 1896. Meet at the Shoulder of Mutton, and ran to Waterloo Crossing. A very small " field," chiefly due to an unhappy habit on the part of the Senior Division of postponing the writing of their memoirs to the last moment. In consequence of the small number we had a most pleasant run, the going was good, and the fences such as to fill the most timid with confidence. Second line from Waterloo Crossing to the Gas Works. A favourite line always. Despite the good going the pace was slow, due to a stale scent and heat exhaustion on the part of the hounds. One or two of the field had much difficulty in preventing their impetuous mounts from heading the pack. Tangley Brook and the stream near Tangley House were so swollen by recent rains that they would, in a scheme, have been described as deep and unfordable rivers. Not- withstanding this, the brook was safely negociated by all. Phipps' horse, which had flown this jump, came at a rattling pace at the smaller stream, then stood stock still. The riders course might be astronomically described as progression, aberration, improper motion, wrong ascension, and natation. It was interesting to note the several ways in which the water was taken. Some made use of their whips some ioo yards before the jump was reached, others took it standing. Stopford's mount, a confirmed bolter (?), showed the best form. He, with unrivalled local knowledge of the country, made for the fords. ( 73 ) Saturday, March 28th, 1896. -^The Farmers' Dinner.-^- At 5.15 p.m. to the minute the two brakes and a dogcart were filled, the roll was called, the twenty-four volunteers for the Farmers' Dinner were reported present, the word w r as given and off we started for Wokingham. We could not fail to be struck by the retiring nature and the extraordinary good manners of the Senior Division, no doubt the result of sixteen months at the S.C. Were they the men to take advantage of their superior age, learning and respectability to push themselves forward, to refuse to be left at home and perhaps to disappoint some of their younger brethren who were looking forward to an evening of intense enjoy- ment ? Quite the contrary ! With the exception of the Hunt Officials, who could hardly be expected to stand aside, only one Senior so far forgot himself as to insist upon his right to be present at the jovial gathering. The conduct of these Voluntary Cinderellas is all the more praiseworthy when we remember that a notice to the effect that there would be no dinner that night at the Staff College had been for some days on the notice board. We imagine, however, that emergency rations were called upon, as they did not appear particularly hungry next day. We noticed, with great pleasure, the presence of Captain D. Henderson, A. and S. Highlanders, who had consented to take the part of pianist for the evening. He did his work, as always, admirably, and we can confidently recommend him to anyone intending to give a Children's Dance or a Punch and Judy Show as a sober, untiring and most obliging performer. Terms, moderate. ( 74 ) We arrived well before the appointed hour and found our guests assembling in great force. After a brief inspection of the Hall and Table, which would not have disgraced a Royal Banquet, we proceeded to business. Mr. Robinson, the mess man, had provided an excellent spread, and it was done ample justice to. The sweets were extremely popular ; one gentleman, who had not given one the idea that he was keeping a lot in hand, disposed of wine jelly, jam tarts, blanc mange, fruit compote and Californian cream in a way that would have made the ordinary public schoolboy blush for shame. Our Secretary had provided us with an excellent fluid, which we had noticed him sampling about three times a week for the last month, "just to make sure it was all right, don't you know." It sparkled and fizzed like anything, was of a beautiful pale canary colour and the bottles were plastered with gold foil. The taste was a trifle peculiar, though not unpleasant, reminding one slightly of some of the liquids we toy with on Saturdays at the Telegraph Course. One could drink any quantity without getting " forrarder." Our new master owned to two bottles without danger, and we all woke up as fresh as larks. As soon as the cigars had been passed round, our Chairman, who was evidently in grand form, proposed the usual loyal toasts, which were received as they should be in an assemblage of soldiers and farmers. When the noise had subsided, Furse mounted the platform and gave us " the Meynell," and right well it went too. ( 75 ) The programme annexed shows the speakers and the toasts they gave and reponded to. They were all good and to the point, and were received in a way that showed unmistakeably the friendly feel- ing which exists, and we trust always will exist between the farmers and the Staff College Drag. Sandy covered himself with glory, his tuneful rendering of " Cookey " was so appreciated that an " encore " was absolutely necessary. In his speech he told us how the Com- mandant had alluded to the Drag Secretary as a mole who works silently and underground, he at the same time assured us of the great affection he had, not only for the farmers, but for their wives. Mr. Sturgess, in proposing the health of the vice-chairman, said he quite agreed as to the " mole." The mole was the most voracious, pugnacious, and immoral creature in the world, and it would be a good day for the farmers when they could inform their wives that the reign of a new Secretary had commenced. We are afraid that, considering the charm of our new Secretary, that it is but a case of out of the frying-pan into the fire. Mr. Lane, Mr. Auckland, and Mr. Wilson were, as usual, most kind in their remarks, they all declared that if the Drag went over their land and they wanted to see which way the hounds had gone they had to take out their best magnifying glasses and examine the turf for crumpled blades of grass, and even then they were not always successful. As for a gap, they had never seen one made, and if there happened to be one in the hedge it must have been the old cow's fault. ( 76 ) Our Chairman called for many songsters, each better than the last. Mr. Cox with " John Peel " fairly brought the house down. Furse wound up the evening with a few appropriate verses to the tune of " As long as the world goes round." We cannot do better than repeat them here. Some say that our Staff College Drag must soon end, That farmers are sickened of fences to mend. Well ! If this is so — which Heaven forefend ! — I wonder how long we shall last ? Why, as long as the world goes round, While good British farmers are found, As long as they live They'll be ready to give Protection to hunter and hound. Now Point to Point Races are all very well, And a horse that can win one is easy to sell, But when for a week it's been raining like hell, I wonder how long they will last ? As long as the world goes round, Will gallant young bloods be found, Who swear that a fall Is just nothing at all, When there's plenty of sop on the ground. Now what do you think of your dinner to-night ? The fare has been passable, faces are bright, And I'm glad to say no one seems to be tight, But I wonder how long this will last ? The longer the wine goes round The larger your heads will be found, And I beg you'll take care, When you rise from your chair, Or you'll possibly land on the ground. ( 77) Staff College Drag Hunt. FARMERS' DINNER, 1896. cXsX MENU. KoS> Soups. Julienne. Cream of Chicken. ffisb. Salmon. Entrees. Jugged Hare. Chicken Parmentier. Joints. Roast Sirloin of Beef. Roast Lamb. Turkey and York Ham. Sweets. Californian Cream. Wine Jelly. Blancmange. Assorted Pastry. ©cssert. Port. Champagne. Marsalla. «X5X TOAST LIST KcN, Chairman Capt. Hon. H. A. Lawrence (17th Lancers). Vice-Chairman Capt. H.J. Du Cane (Royal Artillery). Proposer : Responder : The Chairman — " The Queen, the Prince and Princess of Wales and Royal Family " *x tt o f " The Navy, Army and the ^ T . r , CtR , nr „ K , Mr. H. Simmons Rese / y ' e p^,, | Lt.-Col. Simpson. Capt. Du Cane ... " The Farmers " Mr. Medcalf. I " The Staff College | Capt. E. H. Allenby Mr. H. Lane ... Drag Hunt " \ (Master for 1897). Capt. Vertue " The Visitors " Capt. Snow. Mr. Sturgess " The Chairman " ( 78 Tuesday, March 31st, 1896. Meet at Bannister's Farm. Alas ! the last day of the season ! and such a season ! To do honour to the occasion a field of forty- five mustered, all determined to ride hard. A perfect day, rather hot perhaps, with the smell of "them stinking violets " in the air. Hounds are laid on just west of the lane from Bannister's to the farm. A word of warning from the Secretary about a duck pond some- where, and we are off. Forty yards in front was the first fence, beyond it the fateful pond. On the right, refusing galore ; on the left — splash, and three sportsmen are in the pond. They were cadets, and the Easter Holiday is on, so they won't be required for a few days, and we left them there. Next comes the road, the landing boggy and trappy, but no grief. One horse made a fine double, clearing bank and bog first jump, and the opposite bank the next. Out of the road into deep fields. Here the hounds went away from us, but were caught up, and somewhat pressed on the high ground, where the going was capital. The Master, second whip, Bobby Hargreaves, Haig, Wise, and Furse abreast of hounds, the rest closing up. The first whip has a fall early in the run, and is left with a horse without a bridle, or a bridle without a horse, we forget which. Graham's horse gave him a fall, and very nearly a second. De Tomkyn's slithered on to his nose, but got up cleverly. Burrowes arrived with a broken hat, which looked suspicious, and so the first line ended. Rather a crowd at the check in a narrow and dusty road. 79 The second line was from Arborfield Cross to Barkham Square. A large field again, heavy going, and much stringing out. After passing Handpost Farm the line swung right-handed down the hill west of Barkham Rectory and then up over the road. At this point a sporting pony in a trap tried to join the line. He got well on to the bank, but the cart wouldn't follow, and the driver got him back with difficulty. The line now swung to the left down a fine grass slope to Barkham Brook, Here there was much refusing, at one time nine horses fighting on the take off bank. One rider, not a S.C. man we hoped, at last dismounted in despair, and begged a spectator to " ride the damned brute over ! " One more fence and Barkham Square is reached. Here Mrs. Greenfield was at home to the Drag and all the neighbourhood. Having done ourselves nobly, thanked our kind host and hostess, and lighted one of his best cigars, we rode home quietly behind it to congratulate ourselves on having so good a finish to the season. Never again shall we welcome, as such, our best of Masters, or be shown the way by the cheeriest of whips. Never again will Mac delight our eyes with the sight of his manly form faultlessly attired in the Drag livery. But, no matter, the Drag never dies ! Long live the Drag ! This book, devoted as it is to recording the doings of those who hunt with the Drag, would, however, be quite incomplete without a sketch of those who don't. Finis. ( 80 ) (I) ft a. FBOM FRANK L. WILES Fine Books 8 Pembebton S^uabe bostos, mass. V i^mm . x '.