We used to set the dogs upon the track of the fugitives, and they would follow them until, to save themselves from being torn in pieces, they would climb into a tree, where the dogs kept them until we came up and secured them.
These hounds, when young, are taught to run after the negro boys; and being always kept confined except when let out in pursuit of runaways, they seldom fail of overtaking the fugitive, and seem to enjoy the sport of hunting men as much as other dogs do that of chasing a fox or a deer.
My master gave a large sum for his five dogs,--a slut and her four puppies.
While going over our cotton picking for the last time, one of our hands named Little John, ran away.

The next evening the dogs were started on his track.

We followed them awhile, until we knew by their ceasing to bark that they had found him.

We soon met the dogs returning.

Their jaws, heads, and feet, were bloody.