AN AGRICULTURAL GENIUS-OLD STYLE Towards the hour of noon Harry Hodson, of Upcourt Farm, was slowly ascending the long slope that led to his dwelling.

In his left hand he carried a hare, which swung slightly to and fro as he stepped out, and the black-tipped ears rubbed now and then against a bunch of grass.

His double-barrel was under his right arm.

Every day at the same hour Harry turned towards home, for he adhered to the ways of his fathers and dined at half-past twelve, except when the stress of harvest, or some important agricultural operation, disturbed the usual household arrangements.

It was a beautiful October day, sunny and almost still, and, as he got on the high ground, he paused and looked round.