Stopping Splits

Out foxhunting, when the hounds split onto two foxes, you gallop to the front of the smaller group, crack your whip softly, and hollar “steady up, boys.” This never works, so you get mean, scream your heart out, punch your horse, and cry. Out basseting, you do the same, but the hounds get beat into submission before the angry tears come. Beagles are even easier. You needn’t say a word. Just sidestep into the hedgerow, wait until the lead hound walks in full cry to your feet, and pick her up. The rest get confused and stop on their own.