The School of Recreation (1696 edition) - Or a Guide to the Most Ingenious Exercises of Hunting, - Riding, Racing, Fireworks, Military Discipline, The Science - of Defence by Robert Howlett
page 18 of 189 (09%)
page 18 of 189 (09%)
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These two Chases are usually hunted in _England_, and are as great
Infesters of Warrens, as the two last mentioned Vermine, but are not purposely to be sought after; unless the Huntsman see their place of Prey, and can go to it; and if the _Hound_ chance to cross them, sport may be had. But no Rule can be prescribed how to find or hunt them. _Of the Otter._ This Creature useth to lye near Rivers in his Lodging, which he cunningly and artificially builds with Boughs, Twigs and Sticks. A great Devourer of Fish. It is a very sagacious and exquisitely Smelling Creature, and much Cunning and Craft is required to hunt him. But to take him, observe this in short. Being provided with _Otter-Spears_ to watch his Vents, and good _Otter-Hounds_, beat both sides of the River's Banks, and you'll soon find if there is any. If you find him, and perceive where he swims under Water, get to stand before him when he _Vents_, (_i.e._ takes breath) and endeavour to strike him with the Spear: If you miss him, follow him with your _Hound_, and if they are good for _Otter_, they will certainly beat every Tree root, _Bul-rush Bed_, or _Osier-Bed_, so that he cannot escape you. _Of the wild Goat._ The _Wild-Goat_ is as big and as fleshy as a _Hart_, but not so long-legg'd. The best time for hunting them is, at _All-hallontide_; and having observed the Advantages of the Coasts, Rocks, and Places where the _Goats_ lie, set Nets and Toils towards the Rivers and Bottoms; for 'tis not to be imagined, the Dogs can follow them down every place of |
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