Classic Poem

Masters of Hounds! We are proud to remember,
And glad to acknowledge, the part that you play
As you give us new greeting each misty November
And lead us our gallops from Christmas to May!
Masters of magical merry Horn-blowing,
Masters who keep the keen crowd within bounds,
Masters of Horse, of " Hold Hard!" and Hard Going —
Here's to you, Masters of Hounds!

Masters of Hounds! With a straight fox or hanging
Prepared through all fortune to get to the end;
Masters of Language when thrusters need slanging,
Masters of Tact with a foe or a friend!
Masters who hold the wide countries together,
Masterful always though trouble abounds,
Masters o'er-riding Poor Scent and Bad Weather —
Here's to you, Masters of Hounds!

Masters of Hounds! Be you tough and hard-bitten,
Or dancers and dandies, we'll still be content
Since we know that in all the Hunt records are written
How soundly you served us, how boldly you went!
Masters, past-Masters, with no one to match you!
Masters whose " For'ard! " is sweetest of sounds!
Masters whose Field must ride hard if they'd catch you!
Here's to you, Masters!
Masters of Hounds!