# Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man — Chapters explained

> Chapter companions for Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man by Siegfried Sassoon.

- [Prefatory Note](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/prefatory-note.md): 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.
- [Memoirs of a Foxhunting Man](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/memoirs-of-a-foxhunting-man.md): 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 growi
- [Early Days](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i-early-days.md): 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 G
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston reflects on his lonely childhood after being orphaned and raised by his Aunt Evelyn. He describes his isolation, his early education with Mr. Star and Tom Dixon, and his creation of an imaginary companion
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): The narrator reflects on how his Aunt Evelyn's hiring of the groom Dixon set him on the path to becoming a foxhunting man. Dixon gradually replaces the carriage horses with more spirited animals, and eventually persuades
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): The narrator recalls his early days with his first pony, Rob Roy, and his riding lessons with Dixon. He describes his nervousness about jumping and his dreamy, unpractical nature. A solo ride ends in humiliation when Rob
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): The narrator reflects on his childhood, describing a world of small inward happenings and local associations. He recounts his sheltered life with Aunt Evelyn, his tutor Mr. Star, and the visit of the solicitor Mr. Pennet
- [First Day with the Hounds](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/v.md): George Sherston recounts his first day of foxhunting at Finchurst Green, guided by Tom Dixon. He experiences the intimidating presence of Lord Dumborough, the thrill of the chase, and a fall that leaves him shaken. He al
- [VI](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/vi.md): George returns home late from his first foxhunt, and Aunt Evelyn is relieved to see him safe. Dixon downplays the day's mishaps, and George begins to feel proud of his exploits. At a dance at Mrs. Shotney's, he meets Den
- [VII](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/vii.md): 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 
- [The Flower Show Match](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii-the-flower-show-match.md): 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 
- [Home for the Holidays](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston returns home from Ballboro' for the summer holidays and learns he will play in the Flower Show cricket match for the first time. He reunites with Aunt Evelyn and Dixon, enjoys the comforts of home, and wa
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston recalls a Flower Show cricket match at Butley, describing the village characters, his pre-match superstitions, and the arrival of the formidable Rotherden team with Crump and Bishop.
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): The chapter describes the Flower Show cricket match between Butley and Rotherden, focusing on the narrator's experience as a young player. It details the characters involved, the tense finish of the match, and the social
- [A Fresh Start](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii-a-fresh-start.md): 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 firs
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston reflects on his youthful aimlessness after leaving Cambridge, receiving a letter from Mr. Pennett urging him to reconsider his education, but he dismisses the advice while playing a cricket match for Butl
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston recalls a train journey home from Devonshire with Aunt Evelyn, who is unwell. He feels embarrassed by her modest appearance and her attempt to make tea in a first-class compartment, which he perceives as 
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston settles into a quiet life with Aunt Evelyn after leaving Cambridge, spending his days playing golf at Amblehurst and indulging in his hobby of collecting secondhand books. He reflects on his aimless exist
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): George Sherston recounts his hesitant entry into hunting, including his purchase of the horse Harkaway from Mr. Gaffikin, his struggles with ill-fitting boots, and his growing sense of connection to the countryside throu
- [V](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/v.md): George Sherston attends the Ringwell Hunt Point-to-Point races, contrasting the rough, old-fashioned sporting atmosphere with the more formal Dumborough Hunt. He explores the natural course, observes the local farmers an
- [A Day with the Potford](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv-a-day-with-the-potford.md): 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 
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): The narrator travels to London to try on new hunting clothes and boots, feeling both nervous and excited about his appearance as a foxhunter. After visiting the tailor and bootmaker, he attends a Kreisler concert, where 
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston reflects on his disappointing experiences with the Dumborough Hunt, particularly his discomfort with the coarse and bullying Bill Jaggett and the inadequacy of his horse Harkaway. He decides to try the Po
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston recounts a successful hunt with the Ringwell across the Potford Vale, which restores his faith in foxhunting after disappointing days with the Dumborough. He returns home elated, but Dixon quickly notices
- [At the Rectory](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/v-at-the-rectory.md): 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 t
- [Arrival at Hoadley Rectory](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston travels by train to Sussex to visit his friend Stephen Colwood for a hunting weekend. Stephen picks him up at the station in a buggy, and they discuss the previous day's hunt, their shared love of Surtees
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston visits Colonel Hesmon with Stephen Colwood, observing the Colonel's obsessive collection of twenty-seven pairs of top-boots and his stereotyped, retired military life. Later, they attend church service at
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston attends a foxhunt with the Ringwell Hunt, where he meets Arthur Brandwick, is mistaken for Stephen Colwood's brother, and observes various characters including the Master, Nigel Croplady, and Young Lewiso
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): George Sherston returns home with his new horse Cockbird, surprising Dixon and Aunt Evelyn. Aunt Evelyn sells a ring to pay for the horse and Hunt subscription, showing her selfless support for George's hunting passion.
- [VI: The Colonel's Cup](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/vi-the-colonel-s-cup.md): 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 H
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): The narrator recounts his early experiences hunting with the Coshford Vale Stag Hunt, including his first day on Christmas Eve, his diary entry, and his reflections on the stag-hunting culture. He describes the huntsman 
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston prepares for the Ringwell point-to-point race, training Cockbird with Dixon while grappling with his own inexperience and nervousness. He reflects on childhood memories, his reliance on Stephen Colwood's 
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston reflects on his nervousness and preparation for his first point-to-point race. He buys a racing cap and a weight-cloth, discusses the race with Dixon and Aunt Evelyn, and walks the course with Stephen Col
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): George Sherston wins the Colonel's Cup at the Ringwell Hunt Point-to-Point races. He encounters Denis Milden, the new Master of the hunt, and reflects on his childhood acquaintance with him. The chapter details the prepa
- [VII: Denis Milden as Master](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/vii-denis-milden-as-master.md): 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 obs
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): In an extra fine summer, the narrator reflects on his cricket matches and anticipation for the upcoming hunting season. He visits Stephen Colwood, and together they attend a cubbing meet where he re-encounters Denis Mild
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): The narrator describes his deepening involvement with the Ringwell Hunt, his growing friendship with the loquacious Fred Buzzaway, and his first real conversation with the huntsman Denis Milden, who offers him lodging at
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston visits Denis Milden at the Ringwell Kennels for the first time, experiencing the behind-the-scenes realities of hunting life. He observes Denis's methodical handling of complaints from farmers and poultry
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): George Sherston recounts his deepening involvement with the Ringwell Hunt, learning hound names and gaining status among members. He describes his friendship with Stephen Colwood, the purchase of a new horse 'Sunny Jim',
- [Migration to the Midlands](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/viii-migration-to-the-midlands.md): 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 impen
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston moves to Packlestone to hunt with Denis Milden, despite financial strain. He acclimates to the new country, meets local characters, and discusses the challenges of the hunt with Denis. Dixon arrives with 
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston describes the social structure and key figures of the Packlestone Hunt, including the autocratic Captain Harry Hinnycraft, the admired Mrs. Oakfield, and the pompous Sir Jocelyn Porteus-Porteous, as he be
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): The narrator reflects on the Packlestone Hunt's diverse characters, from the elderly Squire Wingfield to the newly-rich manufacturer, and focuses on the reckless Peppermore brothers, Jack and Charlie. He describes a dinn
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): The narrator reflects on a winter of total immersion in hunting, enjoying the company of Dixon and Denis Milden, but facing financial strain and debt. He sells a horse, returns to Butley, and feels restless and excluded 
- [IX: In the Army](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ix-in-the-army.md): 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, fe
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): George Sherston reflects on his first five weeks as a trooper in the Yeomanry, describing the idyllic yet challenging early days of the war, his bond with his horse Cockbird, and the growing sense of boredom and homesick
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): George Sherston recovers from his arm injury at home, grappling with the anticlimax of his return and the news that Tom Dixon has joined the Army Veterinary Corps. He resolves to transfer to an infantry regiment and seek
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): George Sherston, with Captain Huxtable's recommendation, applies for a Special Reserve commission in the Royal Flintshire Fusiliers. He orders his uniform from the military tailors Craven & Sons, where the persuasive Mr.
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): George Sherston describes his arrival at Clitherland Camp in May 1915, a training camp for officers bound for the Front. He contrasts the permanent senior officers with the temporary young officers, and the bright summer
- [At the Front](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/x-at-the-front.md): 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, ridi
- [I](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/i.md): 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 t
- [II](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/ii.md): 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
- [III](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iii.md): 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 
- [IV](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/iv.md): 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 
- [V](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/v.md): 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 th
- [VI](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/memoirs_of_a_foxhunting_man_se/chapters/vi.md): 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 t

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