Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man by Siegfried Sassoon.
Chapter 1
Prefatory Note
The author provides a brief explanatory preface for the first single-volume edition of the Memoirs, noting the composition dates of each volume and stating that the work is intended to be self-explanatory.
Chapter 2
Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man
The narrator reflects on his childhood and early adulthood, focusing on his introduction to foxhunting and the rural life that shaped his identity. He recounts his first pony, riding lessons with Tom Dixon, and his growing passion for hunting, which becomes a central part of his world. The chapter also touches on his relationships with key figures like Aunt Evelyn and Stephen Colwood, and the tension between tradition and change as he navigates social class and financial instability.
Chapter 3
Early Days
The narrator recalls his early childhood and the beginning of his equestrian life, from the acquisition of his first pony, Rob Roy, under the guidance of the groom Tom Dixon, to his first day of foxhunting at Finchurst Green. The chapter captures his nervous excitement, his growing bond with Dixon, and his initial awe and confusion upon entering the hunting field.
Chapter 4
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 5
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 6
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 7
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 8
V
George Sherston returns from leave to find the war has aged those at home, including Captain Huxtable and Aunt Evelyn. Back in France, he navigates the grim trenches, delivers smoked salmon to C company, and witnesses the death of Corporal Price. He interacts with Barton, Dick Tiltwood, and others under the new command of Lieutenant-Colonel Kinjack, reflecting on the loss of his past life and the impossibility of hunting due to snow.
Chapter 9
VI
George Sherston reflects on the strange contrast between the pastoral beauty of the French countryside and the grim reality of trench warfare. He describes the comfort of sleep, the solace of riding the black mare, and the small pleasures of oranges and removing boots. He recalls a conversation with John Homeward about Tom Dixon, and endures the monotony and danger of night patrols, wiring parties, and the constant threat of raids. The chapter captures the tension between memory and present horror, the humanity found in small comforts, and the looming inevitability of the 'big push.'
Chapter 10
VII
George Sherston attends a foxhunt at Heron's Gate, hoping to impress Denis Milden. He makes a social blunder by expressing concern for a fox's safety in front of Denis, leading to humiliation and self-doubt. The chapter explores his awkwardness and desire to fit in with the hunting community.
Chapter 11
The Flower Show Match
George Sherston returns home from Ballboro' for the summer holidays and is thrilled to learn from Dixon that he has been selected to play in the annual Flower Show cricket match for the first time. The chapter describes his arrival, his morning rituals and superstitions about the match, his interactions with Aunt Evelyn and the village characters, and the buildup to the match at the Butley Flower Show grounds.
Chapter 12
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 13
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 14
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 15
A Fresh Start
George Sherston reflects on his early days as a foxhunting man, guided by the tactful and unobtrusive mentorship of Tom Dixon. He recalls the purchase of his first horse, Harkaway, and the awkward acquisition of his first pair of hunting boots. The chapter also covers a cricket match at Rotherden, where he reads a letter from Mr. Pennett urging him toward a legal career, and culminates in the excitement of the Ringwell Hunt point-to-point races, where Stephen Colwood wins the Farmers' Race on Cockbird, deepening George's longing for a more vibrant life.
Chapter 16
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 17
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 18
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 19
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 20
V
George Sherston returns from leave to find the war has aged those at home, including Captain Huxtable and Aunt Evelyn. Back in France, he navigates the grim trenches, delivers smoked salmon to C company, and witnesses the death of Corporal Price. He interacts with Barton, Dick Tiltwood, and others under the new command of Lieutenant-Colonel Kinjack, reflecting on the loss of his past life and the impossibility of hunting due to snow.
Chapter 21
A Day with the Potford
George Sherston decides to hunt with the Potford Hounds after disappointing experiences with the Dumborough. He makes elaborate preparations, including sending Dixon ahead with Harkaway. At the meet, he observes the new Master, Guy Warder, a controversial figure. During the hunt, Sherston experiences a thrilling run across the vale, though he later learns from Dixon that Harkaway has an overreach. Back home, his attempts to share the excitement with Aunt Evelyn and Miriam fall flat, so he writes a vivid letter to Stephen Colwood, who responds with an invitation to stay at the Rectory.
Chapter 22
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 23
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 24
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 25
At the Rectory
George Sherston travels to Hoadley Rectory to visit Stephen Colwood and join the Ringwell Hunt. He reads about the hunt in the Southern Daily News, meets Stephen at the station, and they drive to the rectory discussing their shared love of foxhunting and Surtees novels. At the meet, George is introduced to various hunt characters, including Arthur Brandwick, Nigel Croplady, and the Rev. Colwood. He later purchases the horse Cockbird and returns home, where Aunt Evelyn generously finances the purchase by selling a ring.
Chapter 26
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 27
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 28
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 29
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 30
VI: The Colonel's Cup
George Sherston continues his hunting career, averaging five days a fortnight with the hounds. He enters Cockbird for the Ringwell Heavyweight Race, with Dixon's help. He also begins hunting with the Coshford Vale Stag Hunt, using Harkaway for early morning runs. The chapter culminates in the point-to-point race where Sherston wins the Colonel's Cup. After the race, he meets Denis Milden, the new Master of the hunt, and reflects on his success and the changes ahead.
Chapter 31
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 32
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 33
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 34
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 35
VII: Denis Milden as Master
George Sherston reflects on a fine summer spent playing cricket and attending garden parties, while the new Master of the Ringwell Hunt, Denis Milden, works tirelessly. After visiting Milden's humble kennel-house and observing his patient, methodical approach to hunting and hound management, Sherston gains a deeper appreciation for the complexities of foxhunting. Milden's reforms—replacing the slow dog-pack with lighter bitches—eventually yield brilliant sport, silencing critics and earning the respect of seasoned hunters like Fred Buzzaway.
Chapter 36
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 37
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 38
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 39
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 40
Migration to the Midlands
George Sherston moves to the Packlestone country to hunt with Denis Milden, despite financial strain. He buys new horses, acclimates to the new terrain and society, and enjoys a season of hunting while ignoring his impending debt. The chapter ends with his wistful fantasies of London high society, which he cannot afford.
Chapter 41
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 42
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 43
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 44
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 45
IX: In the Army
George Sherston reflects on his early weeks as a trooper in the Yeomanry, finding the experience both idyllic and physically demanding. He receives a letter offering a commission in the Remount Service but rejects it, feeling he must serve actively. After an injury, he conspires with Captain Huxtable to obtain a Special Reserve commission in the Flintshire Fusiliers, severing ties with his past. The chapter contrasts the makeshift world of Clitherland Camp, where senior officers are rooted in peacetime habits, with the grim reality of war, and introduces the failed officer G. Vivian-Simpson, whose pretensions collapse under scrutiny.
Chapter 46
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 47
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 48
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 49
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 50
At the Front
George Sherston reflects on his time at the front with the Flintshire Fusiliers, blending moments of rural tranquility with the looming reality of war. He describes evenings in his billet, training for open warfare, riding a black mare, and the surreal contrast between the peaceful landscape and distant bombardment. The chapter also includes his return from leave, a tense ration run under shellfire, and the death of Corporal Price. He grapples with memories of home, the loss of Dixon, and the hollow comforts of pre-war life, while trying to maintain morale among his men.
Chapter 51
I
George Sherston arrives in France with Dick Tiltwood and Mansfield, joining the first battalion near Bethune. He meets Colonel Winchell, who knows of his hunting reputation through Colonel Hesmon. The chapter describes the journey from England, the bleak November landscape, and the grim realities of trench life, including working parties in the mud and ruins of Festubert. Sherston reflects on the contrast between his past hunting world and the war, and introduces fellow officers like Captain Barton and Julian Durley.
Chapter 52
II
The battalion moves from the La Bassée sector to a new area, enduring a grueling march of sixteen miles. The chapter details the physical hardships of the journey, the camaraderie among the officers, and the introduction of Joe Dottrell, the dependable acting quartermaster. It also reflects on the broader war experience, including the sight of Kitchener's Army and the oppressive atmosphere of Flanders.
Chapter 53
III
The narrator describes a peaceful interlude at Montagne with Dick, Mansfield, Young Ormand, and Julian Durley, enjoying a billet and training for open warfare under Colonel Winchell. He borrows a one-eyed black mare and rides through the countryside. The battalion later marches to Morlancourt, where the narrator is appointed Transport Officer, a role that keeps him out of the trenches. He reflects on the transport section, the battalion's spirit, and a brief reunion with an old school acquaintance, Willie Regel, whose cousin is now in the German artillery.
Chapter 54
IV
George Sherston describes his life at Morlancourt, where he serves as transport officer, enjoying relative comfort while the battalion rotates through the trenches. He rides with Dick Tiltwood, receives news of Sergeant Dixon's death from pneumonia, and learns of Major Kinjack's impending command. Conversations with Joe Dottrell and Barton touch on class, the war's toll, and concerns about Dick's recklessness.
Chapter 55
V
George Sherston returns from leave to find the war has aged those at home, including Captain Huxtable and Aunt Evelyn. Back in France, he navigates the grim trenches, delivers smoked salmon to C company, and witnesses the death of Corporal Price. He interacts with Barton, Dick Tiltwood, and others under the new command of Lieutenant-Colonel Kinjack, reflecting on the loss of his past life and the impossibility of hunting due to snow.
Chapter 56
VI
George Sherston reflects on the strange contrast between the pastoral beauty of the French countryside and the grim reality of trench warfare. He describes the comfort of sleep, the solace of riding the black mare, and the small pleasures of oranges and removing boots. He recalls a conversation with John Homeward about Tom Dixon, and endures the monotony and danger of night patrols, wiring parties, and the constant threat of raids. The chapter captures the tension between memory and present horror, the humanity found in small comforts, and the looming inevitability of the 'big push.'
