Page:The Hare.djvu/89

Rh is, what he calls, the far-famed poacher's dog, the true Norfolk lurcher, originally a cross between the greyhound for speed and the retriever for scent and work, but now a recognised breed, and often again crossed with the greyhound. I have no doubt that this may be quite correct as regards Norfolk. It would not apply to the Northern poacher's dog.

One of the most accomplished poachers that I have interviewed so far is a native of Penicuik; he is also one of the sagacious gentlemen who used to return Mr. Gladstone to represent Midlothian. I am bound to say that his adherence to a Radical creed has not hindered this Midlothian poacher from killing hares in Lord Rosebery's preserves; at least he told me that he had enjoyed prime sport at his Lordship's expense, and was quite ready to pay his hares another visit. I consulted him as to the best dog for a poacher, and his reply was that Mr. L'Aigle Cole was not quite up to date. Lurchers had had their day and had lost their popularity: 'The preference dog for a poacher is a Bedlington; he is good for a furze bush or anything else.' He then proceeded to tell me, in his rambling fashion, about the serious annoyances that poachers have to put up with. Not the least danger of night poaching is the yelping of the poacher's dog, if he has one; yet it is difficult to