The Old Gray Fox

Name: The Old Gray Fox
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

The narrative follows a group of hunters as they pursue a cunning and elusive fox across the English countryside. The hunters, consisting of various characters such as a Member, a Doctor, a Soldier, a Sailor, a Squire, and a Parson, each ride different horses, showcasing their social status and camaraderie. The chase begins in the Valley Pride and moves through various terrains, including withy beds and Hankley Down, where they finally encounter the old gray fox. As the hunt progresses, the hunters face challenges: the Doctor's horse slips, the Member loses his seat, and the Parson falls behind, uttering words that startle the horses. Despite these setbacks, the group remains determined to catch the fox, celebrating its tenacity and skill. The fox is portrayed as a worthy adversary, embodying the spirit of the hunt. The climax occurs when the fox goes to ground, prompting the hunters to consider digging it out. However, the Squire intervenes, arguing for the fox's honor and suggesting that its life has been well-lived. The hunters toast to the fox, acknowledging its game nature and expressing a desire to encounter it again before the year ends. The work captures themes of camaraderie, the thrill of the chase, and respect for nature, particularly the fox, which symbolizes resilience and cunning. The repeated refrain throughout the verses emphasizes the bond among the hunters and their shared passion for the sport, culminating in a celebration of both the hunters and the hunted.

By Sir Arthur Conan Doyle · First published 1926 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Hunting Literature · 770 words

First lines

We started from the Valley Pride, And Farnham way we went. We waited at the cover-side, But never found a scent. Then we tried the withy beds Which grow by Frensham town, And there we found the old gray fox, The same old fox, The game old fox; Yes, there we found the old gray fox, Which lives on Hankley Down. So here's to the master, And here's to the man! And here's to twenty couple Of the white and black and tan! Here's a find without a wait! Here's a hedge without a gate! Here's the man who follows straight, Where the old fox ran.

What this Textopian page supports

The Old Gray Fox is listed on Textopian as a short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, dated 1926 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Short story
Author: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Date: 1926 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Nature Writing, Hunting Literature, Narrative Verse, British Literature
Length: 770 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Nature Writing — The poem vividly describes the natural setting and the chase of the fox, emphasizing the relationship between humans and nature.
Hunting Literature — The central theme revolves around the hunt for the old gray fox, reflecting the traditions and culture of hunting.
Narrative Verse — The poem tells a story through its verses, detailing events and characters involved in the hunt.