Every now and then
wires were found that had been abandoned, but the poaching ceased to be
more than is usual on most properties. So far as the inhabitants of the
parish were concerned it almost ceased altogether; but every now and
then the strollers, gipsies, and similar characters carried off a
pheasant or a hare, or half a dozen rabbits. These offenders when
detected were usually charged before the Bench at a market town not many
miles distant. Let us follow one there.
The little town of L----, which has not even a branch railway, mainly
consists of a long street. In one part this street widens out, so that
the houses are some forty yards or more apart, and it then again
contracts. This irregularly shaped opening is the market-place, and here
in the centre stands a rude-looking building. It is supported upon thick
short pillars, and was perhaps preceded by a wooden structure. Under
these pillars there is usually a shabby chaise or two run in for cover,
and the spot is the general rendezvous of all the dogs in the town.
This morning there are a few loafers hanging round the place; and the
tame town pigeons have fluttered down, and walk with nodding heads
almost up to them. These pigeons always come to the edge of a group of
people, mindful of the stray grain and peas that fall from the hands of
farmers and dealers examining samples on market days.
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