SPORTING INTELLIGENCE. RACING INTELLIGENCE EXTRA. It is reported that the Duke of Richmond has purchased Lord George Bentinck's yearlings and two-year-olds. The Stakes for Doncaster Races 1838, advertised to close on the 31st of March, are postponed for the present. In lieu of the old October Meeting at Epsom, there is to be one day's Spring Meeting on the 4th of April. In our "Obituary" will be found an announcement of the death of young Sam Day. The name, however, will not altogether pass from the Turf, as his uncle Samuel, who it will be recollected rode Priam for the Derby, is wasting, and it is believed will ride Grey Momus in the Derby of the present year. That esteemed mare "The Queen of Trumps," the winner of the Oaks and St. Leger, produced her first foal on Tuesday morning, March 20th, at Mr. Kirby's Stables at York. It is a chesnut colt by The Colonel, who, like the dam, was the winner of the St. Leger, and also ran a dead heat for the Derby the foal, therefore, if it possesses hereditary powers, must be a flyer. The little fellow, like his sire, is a chesnut, and like him has a white face; he has also two white hind legs. The Queen of Trumps, we believe, will be put to Muley Moloch this year. : The same morning, at the same place, Mr. King's Lunatic (the dam of Bessy Bedlam) produced a fine filly by Tomboy. THE CHASE. We have just received a line from RINGWOOD, informing us that all idea of increasing the fox-hunting force in the Suffolk Country is for the present abandoned. The Gentleman who so liberally offered to come forward " on demand" now considers his offer at an end, having heard that Mr. Mure has no intention of giving up any part of the country which he now holds; and begs to add that his only view in offering himself was to take a part of the onus of hunting a very extensive and harassing country from off the shoulders of a liberal and gallant Brother Sportsman, who has for some years stood the brunt unaided and alone. We, however, cannot help wishing that such offer of aid from such a quarter had been accepted, firmly believing that it would have benefited all parties; and also feeling by experience that such chances are not every day presented, and that opportunity once let slip may never be regained. Mr. Wyndham has declared his intention to give up the New Forest country. A successor has not yet been named to Mr. W., who succeeded Mr. Nicoll in 1829. The report that Sir J. B. Mill would hunt the "Vine" country, as mentioned in our last Number, is without foundation. SIR-There never were so many retirements from Masterships of Foxhounds as there are likely to be at the end of this season. Amongst others, in Northamptonshire there is Mr. Payne "a-going :" I hear that the Quorn also are positively to be thrown up, and one or two more I could mention.Now why do not the Gentlemen of some one of these Hunts meet, and decide to accept the offer made them by VULPIS VENATOR in your MAGAZINE for December, p. 97? We all know that half these retirements arise from the petty jealousies consequent on hounds being hunted by a person having numerous ties of interest and connexion with his brother Sportsmen, which throw a jaundiced coloring over his best efforts. Believe me, in VOL. XVI.-SECOND SERIES.No. 96, 30 Subscription packs, it is far better to have a perfect stranger, who would attend to his calling and nothing else; there then could be no jealousy or ill will, and we might chance to have unalloyed good sport. There are several countries vacant let some one enter into negociation with VULPIS VENATOR through the channel of this Magazine-"if he be not a good man and true, I do mistake me." I send you this, Mr. Editor, as in our county we are all at sixes and sevens, and I heartily wish there was an end of it. The only way I see is by the introduction of a stranger, who would be on equally good terms with all parties.-ANTI-DISCORD. Note by Editor.-We insert ANTI-DISCORD'S note, coming from a person of rank and authority in such matters, besides perfectly coinciding in his sentiments. VULPIS VENATOR was in communication with some gentleman through this Magazine; but it was broken off in consequence of the country becoming disputed. We will forward to him with pleasure any overture directed under cover to our Office in Warwick Square. Abercairney has succeeded in getting the Gentlemen of his county to agree to carry on the hounds for three years certain-they are to be called "The Perthshire"-and then has generously made them a present of his clever pack, and subscribes handsomely. They are to be under the management of Mr. Grant, of Kilgraston. Hall, and John Ritchie the head whip, go with them, and a very clever entry of young hounds. Dinner to Mr. Williamson, Huntsman to the Duke of Buccleuch.-On the evening of Thursday, the 15th of February, about a hundred Gentlemen, composed of Sportsmen and other friends of Mr. Williamson, entertained that Gentleman at dinner in the Cross Keys, Dalkeith, on the occasion of his having completed his 21st year as Huntsman of His Grace's Hounds, and the 35th of his service in that Noble family.-Sir David Baird, of Newbyth, Bart., was in the Chair, and Mr. James Park, Bankhead, croupier. The Poet calls the Chase a type of glorious war. Homer, High Priest of Bellona, has drawn his heroes equally good in the battle-field and at the trencher. Now if your Warrior fed well, so should your Nimrod; and to no man is your latter under more obligations than to Mr. Howard, whose Tantivy Sauce" can be likened to nothing but the bottled essence of a fox-chase. When we are prevented from our accustomed exercise in the field, we flavor our rump-steak, or such vivers as chance places before us, with a libation from his immortal bottle, and we fall to with as much gusto as after forty minutes from Barkby Holt. 66 DESTRUCTION OF GAME IN SCOTLAND.-SHOOTING, &c. Our valued Correspondent A QUARTOGENARIAN writes thus, under date Pittacher, March 13:" As to Shooting it is a thing that was the grouse are dead in hundreds; the partridges, to my own knowledge, nearly annihilated; hares even and pheasants dead by dozens; and all other devastation here as bad. I, and of course not singular, had some very nice evergreens about this little place of my own planting, and seventeen years growth they are all as dead as Nelson. The Highland sheep are as bad, and the weather still frosty and bad, and the snow going as if it never meant. As to the game, I saw old Moon for a few minutes on Saturday, and he declared he had literally shed tears about what he saw, and he is none of the crying sort. SIR-If, owing to the dearth of matter more immediately connected with Sporting which may be expected at this season, you should consider the following rather curious incident worthy of a place in your columns, it is very much at your service.-It occurred one day towards the end of last August, while I was on a grouse-shooting excursion in Dumfries-shire with my friend Captain Heron Maxwell, late of the R. I. Fusileers. We had been shooting the " Highmoor" on the property of Sir Patrick Maxwell (my friend's brother), of Springkell, and had left the heather in order to beat for black game, which on that property are as common as grouse. Our beat was a tract of moory upland, which skirts the Highmoor for some distance. Here we put up a solitary hen grouse, which was killed either by the Connel, as the natives call Captain Maxwell in that part of the world, or by myself. On picking up the bird, I found that its legs were tied together by a rude ligature of uncarded wool, about as thick as the smaller end of a ramrod and four inches long, which compressed either limb so tightly, that one of the feet had actually come off at the joint, and was hanging by the tendons, the ruthless fetter still maintaining its hold: the other leg was in a pitiable condition, as the wool had completely buried itself in the flesh, and mortification had begun. I need scarcely add, that the poor bird was as lean as a heron. We examined the ligature as closely as we could, but I could see no sign of twist or knot of any kind, to lead me to suppose that it was the work of human heart and hand. I give you the fact, with the circumstances, but have no solution at hand to account for it.-R. C. G. NATURAL HISTORY. Mr. Yarrell's History of British Birds " continues its all-attractive claims to public patronage, both from the clear and strict descriptions of the author, the new facts collected, and the numerous beautiful illustrations with which it is adorned; and we confess ourselves at a loss for terms of sufficient commendation to express our delight at the fourth and fifth Parts now before us of this beautiful and truly instructive Work. 66 History of British Reptiles," by Thomas Bell, F.R.S., F.L.S., Professor of Zoology in King's College.-If we have, and deservedly, eulogised the wood-cuts of the preceding works by these celebrated Naturalists, we confess our inability to do justice to those of the present Series: they are beautiful and true to Nature. The description of the reptiles is given in the most popular form, arranged according with their scientific classification, entertaining enough for the general reader-distinct and detailed for the man of science. We have said before, and we repeat, that these beautiful books ought to be in the library of every English Gentleman interested in the natural history of his country. We have just seen a very spirited equestrian picture by Mr. S. J. E. Jones, an artist, if we mistake not, likely to assume a very prominent station in that branch of the art. We hope to present to our readers an engraving from it, which will enable them to estimate the opinion we have formed of it. Mr. F. Grant's Portrait of Ralph John Lambton, Esq., recently published by Hodgson and Graves, has just reached us. This is an engraving by John Porter, after the original picture presented to that eminent Sportsman by the Members of his Hunt. We cannot pay a better compliment to the talent of both artists than by saying it is in every respect worthy of the object for which it was designed by those so justly denominated his friends and admirers. A lithographic Portrait of Mr. Charles Kean as Richard the Third has just been published by Messrs. Fores, at their Sporting Repository in Piccadilly. Though by no means a flattering likeness, it is highly characteristic, and places that eminent artiste before us "in his habit as he lives." Messrs. Fores have also published two more plates of their Series of Prize Cattle-one representing two Mortham Oxen, and the other three Wethers. All know the glory of the "Roast Beef of Old England,” and surely here are specimens to immortalise its mutton too! OBITUARY. On the 21st of March, at his seat Dalhousie Castle, and in the 68th year of his age, the Right Hon. the Earl of Dalhousie, G. C. B., Captain-General of the Royal Company of Archers or Queen's Body Guard for Scotland. In the 77th year of his age, Lord Berners, so long known as "the Sporting Colonel Wilson of Newmarket." By His Lordship's decease, the Nominations in the Derby and Oaks in his name are of course forfeited. On the 14th, the celebrated young Jock, Sam Day, second son of Mr. J. Day, of Danebury, near Stockbridge. Whilst following Sir J. B. Mill's hounds on the preceding Friday, his horse failed in clearing a fence, and fell on his chest, in which situation the animal remained for some minutes. On poor Sam being removed from this distressing situation, animation appeared to be suspended, and some considerable time elapsed before it could be restored. He was removed to the house of his brother-in-law, Mr. William Sadler, near Stockbridge, where he lingered in a hopeless state till Wednesday, when he expired. By the decease of this young man, who had not attained his twentieth year, the Turf has been deprived of one of its most valuable servants. He had, by a rare combination of eminent skill, and no less pre-eminent integrity of conduct, acquired the respect and confidence of all gentlemen connected with the Turf. His engagements for the ensuing season are understood to have been very numerous. In his domestic relation his conduct was most exemplary, and his loss will consequently be long and sincerely deplored. He was the youngest jockey that ever won the Great St. Leger. On the 6th of March, Lord Albemarle's Oaks filly Flea, by Buzzard out of Clansman's dam by Andrew, dropped down dead. The head lad at Mr. Edwards's stables was in the act of feeding her, when she flew back, pitched upon her haunches, and died instantly. Brood Mare killed by Lightning.-On the same day, Mr. Bond's brood mare (dam of Conrad, Rococo, &c.), by Blacklock out of Altisidora by Dick Andrews, in foal to Plenipotentiary, was struck by lightning during a storm, at Mr. Bond's stables at Newmarket, and immediately expired. Mr. Bond purchased her at the sale of the late Sir Mark Wood's Stud for 350 guineas. Bettings at Tattersall's, March 26. THE RIDDLESWORTH.-9 to 4 on Lord Jersey's Cobweb colt. THE DERBY.-11 to 2 agst Lord Jersey's Cobweb colt (take 6 to 1), 12 to 1 agst Mr. Armitage's Nonplus colt (taken), 12 to 1 agst Lord G. Bentinck's Grey Momus, 14 to 1 agst Mr. E. Peel's The Early Bird (no backers), 16 to 1 agst Mr. Bland's Young Rowton (taken), 16 to 1 agst Lord Exeter's Alemdar, 163 to 1 agst Colonel Peel's Ion, 20 to 1 agst Mr. H. Coombe's Cobham, 20 to 1 agst Lord G. Bentinck's D'Egville (taken), and 30 to 1 agst Sir J. Mill's Volunteer (taken). 66 NOTICES TO CORRESPONDENTS. In answer to " P. R," we beg leave to state, that when we gave the accounts of the feats in the Ring, they were manly exhibitions of the art and science of self-defence; but now that they have degenerated into a mere arena of ruffianism and robbery, we do not pollute our pages by details which can excite no other feeling but unmitigated disgust. To "Sportsman."-We know of no law to prevent a man from shooting wild fowl on the coast. Perhaps NEMO alluded to an old statute of Anne, but this has been long obsolete, and Sportsman" must recollect that Nobody's opinion is "nothing to nobody." The thirteenth clause of the New Game Law authorises gamekeepers duly qualified to deprive all persons not authorised to kill game of any dogs, nets, or engines they may have in their possession. JUSTITIA'S Communication is acknowledged; he will perceive that his object is anticipated by CRAVEN. "Hunting on the Eastern Coast of Africa" was received too late for the present Number.- -Stewart's "Stable Economy" has come to hand. SHREWSBURY. TUESDAY, September 19.--Produce Sweepstakes of 50 sovs. each, h. ft. :-colts, 8st. 7lb.; and fillies, 8st. 4fb.-A mile and a quarter.-Three subs. Lord Westminster's ch. f. by Pantaloon out of Bombasine walked over. THE TANKERVILLE STAKES of 25 sovs. each, 15 ft., and only 5 if declared, &c., with 25 added by the Race Committee.-The owner of the second horse to receive back his Stake.-Two miles.Nine subs., five of whom paid only 5 sovs. each. Mr. F. R. Price's ch. h. Ludford, by Wamba, 5 yrs, 7st. 10lb. (M. Jones) Mr. Nanney's ch. h. Ratcatcher, by Langar, aged, 8st. 41b................................................................................... 2 THE INNKEEPERS' PURSE, added to a Sweepstakes of 5 sovs. each, for all ages.-Heats, a mile and a quarter. Five subs. 4 2 ........................... 3 3 ........ Mr. Barrow's b. m. Catherina, by Whisker, aged, 8st. 11lb. (J. Hopwood) THE SHROPSHIRE HUNT STAKES of 5 sovs. each, with 25 added, for horses not thorough-bred, &c., ridden by Gentlemen or Farmers.-Heats, a mile and a half, with five leaps in each heat. Eight subs. Mr. E. Smythe na. The Doe, 5 yrs ......... walked over. WEDNESDAY, September 20.-THE GOLD CUP, in specie, by subscription of 10 sovs. each :three-year-olds, 6st. 8tb.; four, 7st. 12tb.; five, 8st. 6lb.; six and aged, 8st. 121b.-Mares and geldings allowed 2tb.-Three miles.-Thirteen subs. 1 Mr. Giffard's ch. g. Traveller, by Tramp, aged, 8st. 101b. (Lear) THE SHROPSHIRE STAKES of 20 Sovs. each, h. ft., with 25 added:-three-year-olds, 6st. 12lb.; four, 8st.; five, 8st. 10lb.; six and aged, 9st.-Mares and geldings allowed 2tb. Two miles. — Four subs. Mr. Nanney's b. f. Surprise, by Sir Patrick, 3 yrs (Whitehouse) 1 .... 2 THE BOROUGH MEMBERS' PLATE of 60 sovs.:-three-year-olds, 6st. 121b.; four, 8st. 2lb.; five, 8st. 91b.; six and aged, 9st.-Mares and geldings allowed 3tb.-Winners once this year (Matches excepted) to carry 3lb.; twice, 5lb.; and thrice, or a Royal Plate, 71b. extra.-Horses having started twice this year without winning allowed 3lb.-Heats, twice round and a distance. Mr. E. Jones's br. h. Lucifer, by Lottery, 5 yrs, 9st. 2lb. (Hardy).. Mr. G. Cookes's br. h. Red Rover, by Lottery, 6 yrs, 9st. 7lb. ........................ 2 1 2 Mr. Barrow's ch. f. by Recovery, dam by Swiss, 3 yrs, Gst. 101b. ...... 1 2 1 3 3 dr. THURSDAY, September 21.-SWEEPSTAKES of 5 sovs. each, with 30 added by the Committee:three-year-olds, 6st. 12tb.; four, 8st.; five, 8st. 8tb.; six and aged, 8st. 131b. -- Mares and geldings allowed 31b.-The winner of the Shrewsbury Cup in 1837 to carry 51b, extra.--Two miles. Five subs. Mr. F. R. Price's ch. h. Ludford, by Wamba, 5 yrs (M. Jones) Mr. Barrow's b. m. Catherina, by Whisker, aged... HER MAJESTY'S PLATE of 100gs. :-three-year-olds, 7st. 11lb.; four, 9st. lib.; five, 9st. 9lb.; six and aged, 10st.-Three miles. Mr. Mostyn's b. m. Birdlime, by Comus, 6 yrs (S. Darling) Mr. E. Jones's br. h. Lucifer, by Lottery, 5 yrs Lord Derby's ro. c. Parolles, by Shakspeare, 3 yrs ........ ....... 1 ...... 2 3 THE COUNTY MEMBERS' PLATE of £60, weights as for the Borough Members' Plate.-Heats, twice round and a distance. Mr. Painter's b. h. Matadore, by Picton, 5 yrs ........................................ 2 1 1 Mr. Nanney's b. f. Surprise, 3 yrs....... 1 2 2 VOL, XVI, SECOND SERIES,--No. 93. G |