AN OLD-TIME HUNT.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXV, Issue 2095, 3 June 1907, Page 1

AN OLD-TIME HUNT.

A recent North Otago Times says: An old-time incident of Oamaru’s very early days was related tho other day, and it might be as well to rescue it from oblivion. An old country sport, who kept a livery stable, imported a few beagles, while another, hailing from north of the Tweed, had a pack of terriers. With theso it was decided to start a hunt club in proper style, but as there were no foxes, and as wood hens would not fill tlio bill, it was decided that a large tom cat that loitered about the stable should be pressed into the service. A meet was duly called, and on the south side of the Cape, which was then in its natural state, tho huntsmen met, the man from north of tlio Tweed appearing in full hunting rig out—red coat, etc. The cat was carried to the meet, in a bag, and on being liberated “Tally-ho” was sounded in orthodox style. The boagles and terriers made a rush, and Thomas arched liis back, and spat and clawed for all he was worth, but not liking the look of things lie bethought him of a place of safety. Tho huntsman had over-run his quarry, and tho cat with a bound was soon fixed on his horse’s rump. The horse bucked and pranced, and then, taking the bit between his teeth, bolted for the road, and made good pace along it for home. The cat, feeling insecure, in the meantime had scrambled on the huntsman’s shoulder, and in this demoralised state the three arrived at the stables, with the yelling pack of dogs behind them. This was the first and only meet of tlie newly formed Hunt Club, for as the story got about all disowned any connection with it.

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