2

Greaves, who in his printed history of the Hunt describes a "grand hunt" of 1793, reproduces an account of Woburn in the *Sporting Magazine* for Feb. 1795: "the dog-kennel is esteemed the completest in England"; between 60 and 70 couple of hounds were kept there, and there was accommodation for 36 hunters.¹⁴

At the sight of (apparently) still more elaborate kennels at Wyboston in 1794, built by the young Duke for "when his Grace should come to hunt this country... various well built buildings of brick, with strong good doors and well tiled; ... a kitchen, boilers and coppers; with separate apartments for the female hounds during their accouchements; that coals and straw are laid in in great abundance for these hounds...milk also is supplied...The dog kennels proudly overtops those miserable mud hovels erected for the sons of Adam, who...regret...that they are not, born fox-hounds", Byng was indignant: "something is rotten in the state of Denmark".¹⁵

Oakley, unfortunately, is not described by Byng. It seems likely that it was at this time that the house there was built to Holland's designs (these designs are preserved in his sketchbook at the R.I.B.A.).¹⁶ It was before 1793, in which year the 'rest Park steward secured "a joiner who lives at Bedford and who has done all the Duke of Bedford's work at Oakley House."¹⁷ The kennels may well have been rebuilt too, and if so the brothers had three kennels strategically placed in the county. Lysons¹⁸ says that the Oakley villa was John's country seat before he succeeded his brother.

In England generally throughout the 18th century foxhunting was winning the day over the hunting of hares.¹⁹ Burrows²⁰ gives dates of several hunts at this time, the nearest neighbour probably being the Fytchley, dating from 1750. By the end of the century over a dozen hunts were established in many parts of the country. In Bedfordshire too foxhunting was gaining ground. Byng in 1794 writes of "Mr. S.... a young buck was only for the splash and dash of foxhunting, and spoke with bitter contempt of hare hunting."²¹ When William Lee Antonie in 1796 changed his hare hounds to foxhounds, Richard Orlebar writes that this "will be highly approved of by all his neighbours."²² (Antonie, as William Lee, had inherited Colworth in 1771 from Richard Antonie, and therefore took the additional name). He was to be one of the trio who initiated the Oakley Hunt. The other was the Duke's political ally, Samuel Whitbread.

Samuel Whitbread the younger, born in 1764, was a few months older than the young Duke. Both young men were now active in politics on the 'hig side. At 'Wrest, Polwarth was dead, and the future Earl de Grey still a child. In any case, 'Wrest was in the opposite camp politically, and the Marchioness Grey's steward writes sourly of a county meeting in 1795 when the Duke and his party entered, surrounded by numerous dissenters and a great number of the lower order of mechanics and labourers; and the 'Luke and 'hitbread both spoke a long time with much declamation. (The meeting was followed by petition and counter-petition; the 'Wrest steward got 40 signatures in Silsoe for his side, but no one there - he says - signed the Duke's) Antonie also was a 'hig, and soon became (with Samuel Whitbread) one of the Bedford members 1802-7.

This increasing interest in politics, and again in agricultural matters (witnessed by the sheepshearing at Woburn) was, with maturity - Miss Scott Thomson suggests - distracting the Duke's attention from hunting. His state of health may have contributed; he was only 37 when he died of neglected hernia. A statement made by S.J. Knight of Welwyn in 1829 alleges this as the sole reason: "When the health of Francis, Duke of Bedford, declined...[he asked] Mr. Lee Antonie to take part of his hounds and hunt what is strictly called the Oakley country."²⁴

A further factor was the pressure of high taxation because of the heavy cost of the Napoleonic wars. Greaves writes²⁵ that the Duke, having made a return of 26 servants and 30 horses, found himself surcharged with 25 more servants and 17 horses, which on appeal was confirmed. The horses and grooms required for hunting purposes (apparently already somewhat reduced from the earlier figure) were evidently reckoned in with the Duke's domestic establishment for taxation purposes. Others felt the difficulties of the times. Lord Southampton wrote to Antonie on 14 Feb. 1798-9 "In these days of...want of spunk...everybody talks of giving up their hounds...What is determined about the Duke of Bedford's?" An undated estimate by Southampton "expenses for 35 couple of foxhounds (Snugs)" is probably about this time.

Thus there seems every reason at the end of the century why the Duke should decide, not to give up, but to put on another footing what in his first youth had been his chief interest, and which was now more costly, less feasible for health reasons, and was giving way to the more mature interests of the landowner and statesman.

4

if not, give them a gallop over the country the day before they hunt. If they are really worn out (like poor Prosper) put them out of the way... Lord Southampton had a very pretty run from King's Wood, Leighton, yesterday (after having killed his first fox) to near Lord Carteret's Park. He missed his fox from a rascal farmer sending them the wrong way that they might not ride over his wheat."⁴¹ The next month (March 1803) the Duke suddenly died ("our much and more to be lamented friend"⁴²), and was succeeded by his younger brother John (6th Duke, 1802-39).

Financial difficulties grew. In the winter of 1804/5 there was anxious cogitation. Antonie for a time had given up his own hounds, but "I found Colworth so dull and so gloomy...that I would rather discontinue living here entirely than not have some hounds about the place...In my little way I have felt the ill consequences of the war as well as the Duke and yourself."⁴³ Whitbread wrote: "I fear the Oakley establishment must be given up...It is my intention to write to the Duke of Bedford...better the matter should be confined to we three...for the season ...which will be giving sufficient time to the gentlemen who have hunted with us... and for the servants...The hounds are between you and the Duke of Bedford and the stable is between you and me."⁴⁴ The Duke wrote: "Let us try whether...we cannot hold our heads above water."⁴⁵ But by March 1805 Whitbread thought the end in sight and decided to put up his horses at Tattersall's; Antonie is to decide what part of the country he will retain for his own amusement and see what can be done for the staff, Sharp, Nicholson and Wells.⁴⁶

It rather seems that Antonie thought of trying to run the hunt from Colworth, but that this was costly. Robert Lee was incredulous, recalling the preliminary calculations:

<table><thead><tr><th></th><th>£</th><th></th><th>£</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Your establishment of the Snugs</td><td>700</td><td>estimated expense of new<br>your sub. to the Oakley hounds</td><td>300</td></tr><tr><td>sub. from the Duke and Sam</td><td>1,500</td><td>establishment at Colworth</td><td>2,200</td></tr><tr><td></td><td>2,500</td><td></td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

"I can't help thinking that you don't make up the account justly, which indeed can't be done unless you separate it entirely from your own private establishment."⁴⁷ In January 1807 Whitbread writes that the Duke leaves the disposing of the hounds to him [Antonie].⁴⁸ A letter from Ludlow to "Bob" [Robert Lee?] in 1807 reads as if the Duke had tried in vain to persuade Antonie to continue: "I am sorry to find by a message from the Duke of Bedford that he has conversed with Lee Antonie relative to the hounds, and the squire does not wish to have anything more to do with them." "I confess" (Ludlow continues) "it has been a great disappointment to me, having flattered myself...that our efforts to preserve the country, the best of all amusements, and an invaluable pack of hounds would have been crowned with success; and that we should not have been left as wanderers...to sally forth from what has hitherto been our home in search of a pack of foxhounds...however...we must patiently submit to the irrevocable decree of William Lee Antonie esquire."⁴⁹

What happened for the next two years is not clear. It seems possible that in fact Antonie carried on. On 13 March 1809 he wrote to Sir George Ludlow that, to prevent any offer from a stranger, he had said that he would carry on. But he thought that Tavistock ought to take the hounds; or failing him, Ludlow or Hoare. "I cannot last". He adds also "The expense is much too great for me."⁵⁰

Then Tavistock took over. The Duke writes on 4 Ap. 1809 to Whitbread "You will be glad to hear that Tavistock has determined to undertake the arduous task... It is rather hard upon him to exact the sacrifice of half his income...for the gratification of a few gentlemen who are unwilling (yourself excepted) to contribute anything towards their own amusement."⁵¹ Tavistock's hunting expenses are mentioned in another connection in the "whitbread correspondence; when subscriptions were coming in for the new Bedford bridge, the Duke writes "it strikes me that Tavistock ought to subscribe, but as I believe his hounds run away with all his superfluous cash I must pay the money for him."⁵² Tavistock wrote courteously to Antonie from time to time, telling him how the season was going.⁵³ He continued as master till 1816, when he was followed by Ludlow; but resumed the mastership from 1822 to 1829.

Thus, by the sportsmanship of Antonie, the drive of Whitbread, and the substantial part played as sleeping partner by the Duke of Bedford, the Hunt had been launched, and, mainly through Antonie and Tavistock, had survived the difficult period of the "apoleonic wars."

In 1814 the formation of a Club was proposed. Charles Fysshe Palmer worked out draft rules and sent them to Antonie; he had already got Tavistock's approval, but "had great difficulty in persuading Lord Ludlow - I promised he should be perpetual President if he liked it and at last he gave his consent."⁵⁴ A few days

X 213/10

close of 2½ a. in Milton Ernest, formerly 2 closes;
adj. turnpike road N., close occ. Ball S.E., Radwell road S.W.,
homestead occ. Jas. Lamb N.W.; formerly occ. Wm. Skevington,
then Edw. Pain, now (ii); formerly known as the Rabletts;
recites that stables & kennels have been erected. 9,10 Dec. 1834.

10. Bond for quiet enjoyment: J.M.B. Brown to (ii). 10 Dec. 1834.

11. Declaration and 2 copies by the Marquess of Tavistock, Earl Ludlow,

13. J.B. Praed and H. Magniac:-
for £341 they have bought a close, with timber, at Milton Ernest;
and have expended in equal proportions £359 in building stables
& kennels for horses & hounds of the Oakley Hunt;
if at any future time the Committee of any subscription pack of
foxhounds hunting regularly in that part of Bedfordshire commonly
called the Oakley country, and elected by the general body of
subscribers to that hunt, repay the money expended with interest
at 4%, they will convey to such Committee the said close & buildings;
but each party has the right to dispose of his share before that
if he wishes. 10 Dec. 1834.

14. Statement, sd. Alex. Sharman, that he has the deeds of Milton kennels. 26 Dec. 1839.

15. Inland Revenue: account of succession to real estate:-
w.B. Tyringham to R.W.G. Tyringham. 1870.

16. Disentailing assurance: (copy)
(i) R.W.G. Tyringham of Tyringham, esq.

(ii) Jn. A. Iliffe of Middx esq.
-- estates standing limited to uses of settlement of 15 Dec. 1838;

recites will of Jas. B. Praed, 11 Jan. 1837;
estates in Cornwall, Bucks. & Beds. 6 Aug. 1892.

17. Case for counsel's opinion, & opinion, in the matter of a claim by
the persons entitled to the personal estate of the late Chas.

Magniac on property belonging to the Oakley Hunt Cttee:-
the agreement to make over close & buildings at Milton to the
Hunt Cttee on payment of the principal + 4% was a personal
agreement only as to the common action of 4 joint owners in
certain contingencies which never arose and cannot now arise.
The value of Magniac's share is now payable to Herb.Ric.Magniac's
mortgagees. Sd. Reg.J.Cust, Lincoln's Inn. 1893.

18. Notice by the solicitors of Matheson & Co. to the Oakley Hunt Cttee
& their solicitors, Sharman & Trethewy, that Oswald Cecil Magniac
 administrator for Chas.) has transferred to Matheson & Co. the
intestate's personal estate. 17 May 1893.

19. Instructions for, & opinion of counsel; recites 8-9;
Fra., Duke of Bedford, d. 14 May 1861;) these shares now vested in
Earl Ludlow d. 1842; ) Art.Herbrand, Duke of Bedford;
Praed d. 1837; his share went to R.W.G. Tyringham;
Magniac d. 1867; his share went via Chas. to Herbt. Ric.Magniac,
bankrupt 1893;

counsel suggests draft conveyances for the shares of Praed & Magniac;
the Oakley Hunt has no right of redemption. [R.J.Cust] April 1894.

20. Abstract of the title of Rog. W.G. Tyringham & reps. of late Chas. Magniac
to the Oakley Hunt premises. 1894.

X 213

21. Conveyance: £300

(i) Sam. Lewis of London esq.

(ii) Aug. Fred. Anne Magniac of Middx., wid. of Chas., late of Colworth

(iii) Herbrand Art., 11th Duke of Bedford

-- ¼ share in the close in nos. 8-9 and buildings thereon;

recites the will of Hollingworth Magniac (d.1867); surv. trustee
Chas. Magniac d. 1891 intestate, leaving heir e.s. Herb. Ric.,
who 1892 mortgaged to Lewis for £43,242 property in Beds. 19 Dec. 1894.

22. Inland Revenue: succession account of H.R. Magniac. 1892.

23. Conveyance: £300

(i) Reg. W.G. Tyringham of Tyringham esq.

(ii) J.F.H. Harter of Cranfield Court esq.
Lionel D.D. Brown of Newcastle-on-Tyne esq.
Reg. Skipwith of Middx. esq.
Ernest E. St. Quintin of London esq.

(iii) Wm. Fra. Higgins of Survey Ho. esq. & w. Fra. Adela

(iv) Herb. Art., 11th Duke of Bedford

-- ¼ share in close as above;

recites that J.B. Praed d. 1837; he devised to his e.s. W.B.Praed, who in 1859 took the name of Tyringham; in 1865 he m. Fra. Adela Wilby; he d. 1870, leaving 1 s. (i) & 1 dau. ; Fra. Adela then m. W.F.Higgins; recites also 16; and marriage of (i). 31 Dec. 1894.

24. Conveyance:

trustees of Fra., 7th Duke of Bedford

-- two ¼ shares in a close at Milton Ernest (plan in margin). 23 Aug. 1895.

25. Agreement for tenancy from year to year: £48 p.a.

(i) Herb. Art., 11th Duke of Bedford

(ii) F.S.Wigram of Elstow esq., present sec. of Oakley Hunt Club;

-- a messuage with yards, stables, kennels, outbuildings, close & premises at Milton Ernest, 2¼ a., commonly known as the Oakley Hunt kennels, property of the landlord, & now occ. by the Ottee. of the Oakley Hunt;
tenant to pay outgoings, keep buildings in repair, insure for £2,800, & not underlet; (plan in margin).

10 Sept. 1895.

26. Fire insurance policy (copy) with Sun Fire Office for Milton kennels. 1897.

27. Conveyance: (no price, no conditions)

(ii) J.F.H. Harter of Cranfield
T.H. Barnard of Kempston
J. Hill of Wollaston

-- close of 2½ a. at Milton Ernest.

25 March 1903.

Endorsement:-

(i) K. Hill, wid., & W.H. Simpson, gent., reps. of J. Hill dcd.

(ii) D. Fraser, H.H. Hulse & G. Robinson

recites that J.F.H. Harter d. 1910; T.H. Barnard d. 1916; J.Hill d. 1918; so that Fraser, Hulse & Robinson have become entitled as joint tenants in equity. 1 Sept. 1919.

28. Agreement (copy) for tenancy from month to month: rent £16 per month

Oakley Hunt Trustees

Secretary of State for War

-- premises as per schedule (a few reservations for Hunt); 14 Sept. 1914.
with copy, notice of release. 1917.

29. Agreement:

(i) S.A. Crawley of Bedford, motor engineer

(ii) Ian Wade-Gery of West End Farm, Stagsden, for trustees of Oakley Hunt;

-- window-light exists by permission & not as of right in kennels;

recites that Crawley has land at Milton having frontage of 134' on kennels; and that the Hunt has recently put a window in premises overlooking; Hunt will pay 1s. pla. in acknowledgement of permission. 20 Nov. 1947.

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45. Conveyance: supplemental to indentures of 1924 & 1946:-

(i) A.F. Thompson
H. de B. Lawson Johnston

(ii) H. de B. Lawson Johnston
J.G. Harris of Newton Bromswold, gent.

-- all the lands & premises remaining unsold comprised in 44;

to the use of the grantees in fee simple as joint tenants. 19 Jan. 1952.

HUNTING AGREEMENTS

46. Agreement (copy) by D.R. Dansey to hunt the Oakley country for 3 yrs. from July 1835. When Cttee have defrayed expenses of erecting kennels at Milton, he expects to receive any subscriptions over £1,300. 13 Feb. 1835.

47. Letter from R.W. Arkwright, Sharnbrook, as to the terms on which he is to continue to manage the Oakley hounds. 22 Feb. 1853.

48. Rough note of agreement between
(i) proprietors of Oakley hounds & Cttee of Oakley country
(ii) "Mr." Arkwright
hounds are to be purchased by Arkwright for £400; but when
he surrenders the Oakley country he is to offer the pack for
sale. 19 Apr. 1853.

49. Letter from R.W. Arkwright, Sharnbrook, to Higgins, agreeing to purchase hounds for £400. 22 April 1853.

50. Agreement (copy) between Robt. Arkwright & Cttee. of Oakley Hunt on the sale of the Oakley hounds to the Duke of Bedford:-
the Duke has paid £1500 for the hounds;

at his request they are handed over to the Oakley Country on conditions:-
they are to remain in the country as the property of the
Oakley Hunt and to be kept in present efficiency;

trustees:- Duke of Manchester, Chas. Magniac, Robt. Arkwright, with power to fill vacancies;
present number: 43 couple old hounds, 15 couple young hounds, 45 couple puppies; 22 Feb. 1876.

Note that the pack was lent to Mr. Miller 1885 with agreement as to Mr. Arkwright's drafting & breeding. 1885.

51. Agreement between T. Butt Miller & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
Miller is to hunt the country 4 days a week for £1,700;
he may extend stabling at his own cost;
signed by Chairman, Fred. Sartoris. 27 June 1885.

52. Agreement between T.B. Miller & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
as above; but at the end of his term he will give up the
pack which shall number 58 couple. 22 Jan. 1886.

53. Agreement between Hugh E. Browning & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
he will hunt the country 4 days a week for £1,800. June 1888.

54. Agreement between Whittaker & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
he will hunt the country 4 days a week for £1,800. 1 Ap. 1897.

55. Agreement between Esme Arkwright & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
he will hunt the country 4 days a week for £1,800. 29 Apr. 1904.

56. Agreement between Esme Arkwright & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
he will hunt the country 3 days a week for £2,800, and
at the end of his term will give up the pack numbering 50 couple. June 1921.

57. Agreement between Esme Arkwright & Cttee of Oakley Hunt:
as above, except that number is 40 couple. May 1923.

X 213

58. Agreement between Lord Melchett & Cttee. of Oakley Hunt: he will hunt the country 3 days a week for £2,300 p.a., but this does not include claims, repairs, rates, taxes, insurance; number of hounds on expiry of term to be 40 couple. May 1935.

59. Agreement between Hon. Pearl Lawson Johnston & W.H.F.Brunskill, & Cttee of the Oakley Hunt: they will hunt the country 3 days a week for £2,500 p.a.; but up to a maximum of £800 will be responsible for all expenses except claims, repairs, rates, taxes, insurance; number of hounds on expiry of term to be 45 couple. [Special contribution by Miss Lawson Johnston]. April 1938.

60. Agreement (copy only) between Lord Luke & Cttee of Oakley Hunt: he will hunt the country 2 days a week for £1,200 p.a.; number of hounds on expiry of term to be 20 couple or if pos. 30. 1947.

MINUTES

61. Minute-book, folio, bd. calf, 260 pp.
Minutes of Committee.
Minutes of General Meeting of subscribers.
Lists of subscribers, 1877-3, 1878-9, 1879-80, 1880-1, 1881-2, 1883-4, 1884-5; 1887-8; 1890-1;
some full accounts are entered in the early years. 1877-1920.

For rough minutes, sometimes signed, see below among papers nos. 111,113-4,116,120-1, 126, 133, 138-9, 143, 147, 149-51, 171-2, 198-201.

CORRESPONDENCE & PAPERS

62. Circular, printed, by signatories "anxious to keep Mr. Berkeley's hounds in the country", asking for contributions; 9 names, including J. Chester, W. Farrer, W.A. Orlebar, G. Livius. July 1833.

63. Circular, printed, asking for subscriptions so that Mr. Berkeley can carry on for one more season; 6 names, including H. Magniac. Sept. 1833.

64. Letter (copy) from the Marquess of Tavistock, Oakley, to Magniac; will contribute £100, & thinks Berkeley the only one who can "carry the object into effect" this season. Sept. 1833.

65. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: would have consulted him but for his absence. Berkeley did not give formal notice, but advertised the hounds for sale. It seems best that, despite some opposition, he be asked to carry on for one season. Tavistock has given £100. [Sept. 1833]

66. Letter (copy) from Higgins to Tavistock asking for confirmation of above, in view of the manner in which Berkeley "lately conducted himself to you". [Sept. 1833]

67. Letter from Tavistock to Higgins confirming the new arrangement as to the only practicable one; he would "never think of putting any personal question...in opposition to such an object." 30 Sept. 1833.

X 213

68. Letter (draft) from Higgins to Magniac: has found circular on return from Scotland; will contribute £25, but hopes Berkeley will not again be a candidate. 1 Oct. 1833.

69. List of meeting of 22 persons at the Swan, including Lord St. John, Lord Ongley, W. Astell, H. Thornton, Higgins, Magniac; Lord Chas. Russell in the chair. Jan. 1834.

70. Circular, printed, from Cttee appointed in 69 (Tavistock, Ludlow, C.J.F. Russell, H. Hoare, J.B. Praed, H. Magniac, W.B. Higgins), asking for subscriptions. Jan. 1834.

71. Letter from Berkeley to Higgins, enclosing proposals: members should give their subscriptions in writing, and offers from those willing to hunt the country should be sent sealed to the Cttee by a given date; from these the Cttee should choose. Jan. 1834.

72. Letter from S. Crawley, Stockwood, to the Cttee., declining subscription on account of distance. Jan. 1834.

73. Letter from "Mr. Barnett" of Stratton Park, declining subscription as Cambs. hounds will probably continue. Jan. 1834.

74. Letter from Sam. Chas. Whitbread at The Hoo, offering £40 after conclusion of existing arrangements. Jan. 1834.

75. Letter (draft, from Cttee to "Sir", requesting 3-yr. lease of accommodation at Milton Ernest. Feb. 1834.

76. Letter from Magniac to Higgins; Brown will not accept offer for his 2 a.; will Higgins see Evans & try to lease or purchase (various points listed; if no result, perhaps Sharman will try Gibbsins. [1834]

77. Letter from Magniac to Higgins; apologies to Cttee for non-attendance; Evans' reply will be given through Lord Chas. Russell. £1,300 would suffice with only 3 days' hunting a week. [1834]

78. Letter from Lord Chas. Russell to Higgins: Evans seems desirous to act fairly, but whichcote does not wish to be hurried out, having a tenancy till Michaelmas; p.s. on separate slip about cottage for servant. March [1834].

79. Letter from R. Evans to Cttee, asking for negotiations on rent to be carried on by representatives of Cttee rather than in writing; with note by Higgins that Evans subsequently reduced the rent to £105. March [1834]

80. Letter from Sharman to Higgins: difficulty in purchasing from Brown, owing to his not being able to produce purchase deed of close. 1834.

81. Letter (copy) from Tavistock to Evans, following Cttee meeting, when Cttee desired more extensive alterations to buildings than acceptable to Evans. March [1834]

82. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: London visit postponed owing to shooting accident; has asked Sharman for details of application to Brown; is sure Evans' ground must be given up. [1834]

83. Letter from A. Sharman to Higgins: Brown left message that his close at Milton is available for price offered. April 1834.

84. Letter (copy) from Higgins to Evans reporting on visits made by himself & Magniac to his tenants at Milton. April [1834].

85. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: has had no reply from Evans. [1834]

86. Letter from Evans to Higgins, attaching copy of letter from tenant, Jn. Turner, protesting on kennels being put on proposed site at Miltân, because of difficulties involved for his sheep. April [1834].

X 213

87. Letter from Sharman to Higgins: will see Brown next day, offering £300 for close. May 1834.

88. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: glad arrangement is concluded. A few pounds more do not signify much. n.d.

89. Letter (copy) from Magniac & Higgins to Evans, releasing him from his offer of a site, as they had secured ground for kennels on the other side of the village; "although less eligible perhaps than that which you consented to accommodate us with will still answer the purpose and relieve us from the feeling of having persuaded you." May 1834.

90. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: Evans is glad to be released from his promise, though Magniac thinks he is a little mortified. [1834]

91. Letter from Magniac to Higgins: please issue circular drafted by Tavistock. S. Whitbread expects them at the brewery on 1 June. May [1834?].

92. Circular, printed, from Cttee, announcing conclusion of negotiations with Mr. Dansey "who has undertaken the future hunting of Bedfordshire", and asking for support. May 1834.

93. List of 41 proprietors of land and coverts in the Oakley country to whom the circulars (91) were addressed. June 1834.

94. Letter from Higgins at Turvey Abbey in reply to 91. He will not bind himself to preserve foxes because of "extreme annoyance...by the Hunt crossing the little farm against his house...the ground... does not recover the mischief in a season"; but does not make stipulations regarding his other farms if the tenants do not object. June 1834.

95. Letter from S. Crawley, Stockwood, (written from Portland Place), agreeing to support Dansey and the Hunt. June 1834.

96. Letter from Mr. Metcalfe of Roxton House giving permission for drawing his coverts; he relies on the Cttee not allowing the foxes undisturbed possession of his woods. Sept. 1834.

97. Letter from Lord Holland of Ampthill Park to Higgins, promising co-operation with Dansey; if anything is required, apply to Mr. Swaffield, who has orders to attend to it without delay. Oct. 1834.

98. Letter from Magniac to Higgins regarding estimates (for building kennels?) which are high, from Woodroffe. "I entirely agree with you that the S. entrance gate is of little importance, though the N. one should be handsome." Opening meet 10 Nov. [? Oct. 1834]

99. Letter from Lord Chas. Russell to Higgins complaining of rumour that hunting would not begin till after 10 Nov., a week later than usual. Oct. [1834]

100. Letter from J. Lee, Doctors Commons, to Higgins, refusing to allow Colworth woods to be drawn without guarantee of compensation for damage. Hunting in N. Beds. has been conducted in an unsportsmanlike manner; "the hounds in the neighbourhood of Colworth have lately been a public nuisance." Dec. 1834.

101. Letter from Magniac to Higgins, commenting on draft circular and on subscription arrears; will be away for a week; but back for 1st meet at Milton 3 Nov. [Oct. 1835?].

102. Letter from Tavistock to Higgins on trouble over Dansey's resignation; is reluctant to take on hounds himself. March 1836.

X 213

103. Circular, printed, from Cttee: Tavistock has handsomely come forward to relieve them from the embarrassment on Dansey's resignation, and will manage the Hunt; solicits support April 1836.

104. Memorandum on arrangements for 1836. Tavistock is standing in Dansey's place for the remainder of his term. The kennels have been built on freehold land at Milton and conveyed to Tavistock, Lord Ludlow, Magniac & Praed as trustees; these four each lent £300 for site and building; Sam. Whitbread has "undertaken to pay these 4 gentlemen interest at the rate of 4% out of the fund of the Oakley Club until the principal of £1,200 should be paid off." Funds were also found by 5 (six) gentlemen (Tavistock, Ludlow, Lord Chas. Russell, Hoare, Praed & Magniac) for buying the hounds from Dansey for £525. They also advanced £100 each to buy horses; but Tavistock was to repay this, and if he gave up the management the horses would be his, deducting 10% for wear and tear. Harness was bought by Tavistock. He took the hounds with a sub. of £1,200 p.a. 1836.

105. Letter from Magniac to Higgins about subscriptions, and about a poultry claim by a neighbour who allows her poultry to "run wild" with the pheasants in the woods. n.d. (1836?)

106. Letter from Tavistock to Higgins. It has been the rule to hunt the "old Oakley country" three times a week, and this is what he intends, but there must be exceptions in special cases. "In the case in question, I should have preferred hunting a 4th day, but the weak state of the pack rendered that difficult,...and their going to Chicksands & rest had become very desirable in order to satisfy the fox preservers in that district." He is sorry this meant leaving his brother sportsmen in the north with only two days, especially after a long frost, but reminds that he gave them an extra day before Christmas. March 1838.

107. Letter from Thos. Smith, Eaton Sq., to Tavistock, offering to take over the hounds, has hunted the Craven, and would bring 10 couple of hounds. 1839 (?)

108. Circular, ptd., from Alford, W.B. Higgins, & H. Littledale, regretting Magniac's resignation and asking for subscriptions to carry on. Jan. 1842.

109. Draft of 108.

110. Letter from Phil. Booth of Milton Hall objecting to an attempt "to thrust Mr. Bambridge on to the Cttee." 1844.

111. Minutes (draft) of a general meeting at the Swan with Lord Alford in the chair announcing that subs. totalled £1,110 so far; adjourned till April to give time for a gentleman to come forward to hunt the country. Feb. (no year.)

112. Circular, ptd., giving notice of meeting at the Swan, sd. Magniac, Higgins, Thornton. Feb. 1853.

113. Minutes, rough, of above meeting; W.H. Whitbread in the chair; Feb. 1853. Arkwright to be asked to continue.

114. Draft of above, adding names of 10 subscribers who are increasing subs.

115. Letter from the Duke of Bedford at Woburn to Higgins, approving proceedings and continuing support. Feb. 1853.

116. Minutes, rough, of subscribers' meeting; £1,500 to be offered to Arkwright. March 1855.

117. Letter from Arkwright to Higgins enclosing resignation and

118. explaining that it is on financial grounds. Jan. 1862.

X 213

188. Letters (6) from Prothero to Barnard, in which the Duke declines to

193. receive a deputation (apparently wishing him to increase his subscription: Feb. 1905.

194. Letter from W.G. Carter Mitchell, Bedford, to R. Bucknall, Biddenham, stating that there is no right of way through Shelton gorse. 1912.

195. Letter from T.H. Barnard, Town & County Club, Bedford, offering to take the hounds for the period of the war; addressed to Joe Hill; (copy). Feb. 1916.

196. Letter from F.W. Coales, Newport Pagnell, to Thompson, thanking subscribers for present on 80th birthday. 1939.

197. List of Cttee for point-to-point races. 1939.

198. Minutes (draft) of General Hunt Meeting at Bedford. 31 March 1945.

199. Minutes (draft) of Oakley Hunt Cttee, Bedford. 31 March 1945.

200. Minutes (draft) of Oakley Hunt Cttee, Milton Ernest. 21 Ap. 1945.

201. Minutes (draft) of Oakley Hunt Cttee, Milton Ernest. 12 May 1945.

# SUBSCRIPTION RULES

The Rules governing the payment of subscriptions, caps and field money are as follows:

<table><thead><tr><th></th><th>Subscription</th><th>Caps</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Husband and Wife</td><td>£995</td><td>£55</td></tr><tr><td>Over 21 years</td><td>£580</td><td>£55</td></tr><tr><td>19-21 years inclusive</td><td>£295</td><td>£25</td></tr><tr><td>Visiting Farmers</td><td></td><td>£30</td></tr><tr><td>Point to Point</td><td>£200 (4 day qualifying)</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>7 Day Subscription</td><td>£250</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Foot Followers</td><td>£25</td><td></td></tr></tbody></table>

## FIELD MONEY:

ALL mounted followers (including guests) £15.00
(under 19 years £10.00)

## NOTES:

The maximum allowable number of caps is 4 per season.

The rules apply equally to members and non-members of the Pony club.

Subscriptions payable on or before 1st November please. If no subscription has been received by 1st November, the full daily cap of £55 will be charged.

Those qualifying horses for point-to-point racing should ensure that the Master is aware.

Guests only by prior arrangement with The Masters/Honorary Secretary.

## ALL SUBSCRIBERS SHOULD BE O.H.S.C. MEMBERS.

## DAMAGE:

Individuals are responsible for reporting at the first opportunity to the Master if they break a gate, a rail, wire or make a gap in a hedge.

In the event of there being stock in the field in which damage is caused, then the gap becomes the equivalent of an open gate and the individual responsible for the damage is required to carry our temporary repairs to make the gap stock proof.

Any individual breaking a gate is required to pay £100 to the Secretary without debate. Any individual leaving a gate open, riding carelessly on seeds or planted ground, or not complying with the simple rules enumerated above may find that their subscription is not acceptable in future seasons.

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The Master and Committee wish to express their thanks to the following for their
contributions of fodder and valuable assistance in numerous other fields, to the Oakley
Hunt.

Mr. R. ARROWSMITH
Mr. M. ARROWSMITH
Mr. R. BARRATT
Mr. W. BEATY
Mr. I. BOSTOCK
Mr. A. BRANDON
Mr. A. BRODIE
CARR BROTHERS
Mr. S. CLARK
Mrs. J. CLAYTON
Mr. B. CURRIE
Mr. A. COURTENEY
Mrs. G. FERRIMAN
Mr. S. FIELDING
Mr. P. FORSTER
Mr. G. GARON
Mr. G. GOBLE
Miss S. J. HARRIS
Mr. I. HUDSON
Mrs C. HALL

THE OHSC
THE POINT TO POINT
Mr. G. HARTIGAN
Mrs. A. HAYNES
Mr. R. MARRIOTT
Mr. C. MIDDLETON
Mr. & Mrs. S. MURRAY
Mr. & Mrs. J. RIVERS
Mrs. J. ROBERTS
Mr. P. SQUIRE
Mr. G. TAWELL
Mr. & Mrs. B. THOMAS
Mr. I. TUCKER
Mr. G. TURNER
Mr. R. WEAVING
Mr. M. WELLS
Mr. & Mrs. R. WESTON
Mr. & Mrs. E. WOOTTON
Mr. G. WOTHERS
Mr. N. YOUNG

THE THANKS OF ALL OF US WHO HUNT MUST GO TO ALL FARMERS WHO
HAVE ALLOWED US TO HUNT OVER THEIR LAND AND WITHOUT WHOSE
CONTINUED SUPPORT WE WOULD BE UNABLE TO CARRY ON HUNTING.

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SUBSCRIPTIONS 2004/2005

| Mrs S Armstrong | £250 | Mr S Mackaness | £250 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mr R J Barratt | £250 | Mrs J Marriott & Mrs J Hill | £800 |
| Miss L Becker | £250 | Ms Z Meek | £250 |
| Mr I Bostock | £200 | Mrs E Mitchinson | £580 |
| Mr M Brinkley | £550 | Mr G Napier | £250 |
| Mr M Brown | £250 | Mr G A Norman | £500 |
| Mr B Brymer | £580 | Mr P Odell | £265 |
| Mr J Burrows | £580 | Miss K Partrick | £250 |
| Miss A Burrows | £295 | Mrs T Barbour-Pattinson | £580 |
| Mrs C Cinnamond | £250 | Mr A Phillips | £580 |
| Mrs G Ferriman | £580 | Miss A Platt | £580 |
| Mr B Currie | £995 | Mr J P Quick | £250 |
| Mr J Edwards | £580 | Mrs D Rawlinson | £250 |
| Mr C E Fisher | £250 | Mrs E Riding | £580 |
| Mrs E Franklin | £250 | Mr & Mrs J G Rivers | £995 |
| Mr S Franklin | £250 | Ms S Stevani | £250 |
| Mrs V Frost | £250 | Mr & Mrs J Stewart | £995 |
| Mr G Goble | £250 | Lady Thompson | £580 |
| Ms R Goodwin | £200 | Mr G Thompson | £580 |
| Mrs L Hadland | £580 | Mrs A Tutt | £580 |
| Mr & Mrs W Hansen | £995 | Mr G Turner | £250 |
| Miss M Hart | £250 | Mrs R Woods | £250 |
| Mr G Hartigan | £580 | Mrs C Wootton | £580 |
| Mr D Hicks | £250 | | |
| Mr I Hudson | £200 | | |
| **TOTAL SUBSCRIPTIONS** | | | **£20,940** |

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