It was a red-letter day for Pocket-beagles and Whippets, neither of them enjoying much popularity, when they numbered amongst their supporters such an enthusiast as the above-named lady, who had been a lover of dogs all her life and had kept several varieties, including such opposites as St. Bernards and Pugs.

As I have always been an admirer of Beagles, and, having lived for years in a colliery district, I have seen more of Whippets than most people, as they are extensively kept by the pitmen, I am therefore pleased to see these two varieties so much encouraged of late years. In days gone by I have often seen two or three specimens of each representing all the entries in each of these breeds at some of our largest shows, and often having to be shown, if at all, in Variety Classes.

Most of my readers will know what charming specimens of the Pocket-beagles have already emanated from the Radnage kennels, and there is every reason to hope there may be many more in the future of these shapely little animals "not exceeding 10 in.," which is the ideal height. When Whippets are more seen and known amongst what Thackeray's Flunkey calls the "huppersuckles," the more they will be appreciated and admired; as if the objectionable features hitherto so generally accompanying the sport are kept out, these little animals afford harmless and fascinating amusement, while racing after the handkerchief (I believe technically known as the rag), when their elegant shape, great ardour, and wonderful speed are brought into evidence. I mentioned in another place that I was present at such a performance, held in the aristocratic and beautiful grounds of Ranelagh Park, when Their Majesties King Edward VII. and Queen Alexandra (then Prince and Princess of Wales) were amongst the interested spectators. I am sure admirers of both Beagles and Whippets are indebted to ladies like Mrs. Oughton-Giles for their zealous support, and I am pleased to be able to give an excellent portrait of her, with some of her Whippets, also some of her celebrated prize Pocket-beagles, and to include her amongst Doggy People.

MRS. OUGHTON-GILES WITH HER WHIPPETS.

From photo by C. Reid, Wishaw.

MRS. OUGHTON-GILES'S POCKET-EEAGLE BENEDICT OF RADNAGE.

MRS. OUGHTON-GILES'S POCKET-BEAGLE DOT 96.

From photo by The Kitchener Portrait Co., New Bond Street.