II. THE MASTERS OF FOXHOUNDS, THEIR STAFF, AND THEIR HOUNDS
A. MASTER OF FOXHOUNDS (MFH):
The Masters are in charge of every facet of the Hunt. All decisions concerning the Hunt are made by the Masters. This includes everything from where and when we hunt, to naming the staff that assists the Masters, as well as all matters concerning the well being of the Hillsboro Hounds. They are assisted by the Huntsman, the Whippers-In, the Secretary, the Treasurer, and the Field Masters. The Masters may decide to act as Field Masters themselves, or they may appoint others to serve as Field Masters. Except for the professional Huntsman and the professional Whip, the Staff Members are volunteers and are not compensated for their services. The word "Honorary" is used before their titles.
B. HUNTSMAN:
The Huntsman is the person who actually hunts the hounds. Using voice and horn, the Huntsman is able to control the hounds and move them from covert to covert as the hunt 3
proceeds. The Huntsman has the absolute right-of-way as he follows the pack or leads them to a scent or covert. You should listen, quietly ask questions of experienced members, and learn the sounds that the Huntsman makes with voice and horn as they indicate the ebb and flow of the Hunt. The Huntsman's authority during the hunt is second only to the Masters.
Always turn your horse's head toward the Huntsman if he passes close to you, so that your horse cannot possibly kick him.C. WHIPPERS-IN:
The Whippers-In (Whips) are responsible for controlling the pack hounds (Pack), and for riding with the Pack, as directed by the Huntsman, during a chase. They are the eyes and ears of the Huntsman. Due to their far-ranging duties, they often overtake the Field, at which time they have absolute right-of-way so they can proceed in their work without delay. Yield to them immediately whenever you see or hear that they are coming. The cry of "Ware Staff" or "Staff Please" will alert you that Staff may need to pass by you. Always turn your horse‟s head toward the Whippers-In when they pass close to you.
D. SECRETARY:
The Secretary is the business manager of the Hunt. The Secretary maintains a list of all members, and mails a monthly fixture card indicating the dates and times of meets, as well as, other scheduling information.
E. TREASURER:
The Treasurer collects all subscriptions due from members. The Treasurer is also responsible for maintaining the Hunt‟s accounts. Submit your payment upon receipt of the invoice from the Treasurer, always prior to Opening Hunt.F. FIELD MASTERS:
The Field Masters lead the Field during the hunt, keeping the Field as close as possible to the Huntsman and the Pack, but not close enough to interfere with them. The Field Masters represent the authority of the Masters and are responsible for maintaining order and safety in the Field, as well as for protecting the interests of the landowners. Listen carefully to the announcements of the Field Masters and follow their instructions during the hunt without hesitation. There will be separate Field Masters to lead the First, Second, and Third Flights. The Field Masters often call on members of the Field to perform incidental duties during the hunt such as opening and closing gates, replacing poles over coops, repairing damage to property or accompanying a disabled horse or rider back home. Everyone should be alert for these situations and volunteer when special help is needed.
G. THE PACK OF HOUNDS:
The Hillsboro Pack consists of hounds whose bloodlines have been selected to produce good scenting ability, voice, obedience, stamina, drive and desire. The Pack is the lifeblood of the Hunt. Great care is taken to protect each individual hound from harm and to improve the Pack‟s aggregate hunting attributes through selective breeding. There are three foxhound breeds recognized in America: English, American, and Crossbred. The Hillsboro Pack is mostly Crossbred with predominant American influences.