BEAT for a Hare
,—is a term in hunting, much less known, and much less used, formerly, than of late years. When the huntsman was mounted at day break, and the hounds were thrown off at the place of meeting, as soon as the horsemen could see to ride, the hounds took trail, and went to their game in a style much better conceived than described. No assistance was then required to beat for hares, when the hounds were thus early enabled to find for themselves. A chase (or two) was enjoyed at that time, and the hounds at home in the kennel, before the hour at which it is now the custom to reach the field. Hence the custom of engaging help to beat for a hare, the worst method that can be adopted, and the most destructive of all discipline with the hounds; for once accustomed to the practice, heads are all up; and they are much more employed in staring about, and listening for a view holloa, than in putting their noses to the ground.