The large _springing_ Spaniel, and small _Cocker_, although they vary in size, differ but little in their qualifications, except that the former is rather slower in action; neither catching the scent of the game so suddenly as the latter, or seeming to enjoy it with the same extatic enthusiasm when found. The small cocking Spaniel has also the advantage of getting through the low bushy covert with much less difficulty than the larger Spaniel, and does not tire so soon, whatever may have been the _length_ and _labour_ of the day. Spaniels of each description are frequently used as finders in COURSING with GREYHOUNDS, and are indefatigable in their exertions: from the time they are thrown off in pursuit of game, the tail is in a perpetual motion, (called feathering,) by the increasing vibration of which, an experienced sportsman well knows when he gets nearer the object of attraction. The nearer he approaches it, the more violent he becomes in his endeavours to succeed; tremulative whimpers escape him as a matter of _doubt_; but the moment that doubt's dispelled, his clamorous raptures break forth in full confirmation of the gratification he receives. And this proclamation may be so firmly relied on, (though in the midst of the thickest covert,) that the happy owner may exultingly boast he is in the possession of one faithful domestic who never tells a lie.
As it is the impulsive principle of this animal to give the most outrageous proof of joy upon finding, or coming upon the foot or haunt of game, so it is his determined disposition never to relax in his perseverance till he brings it _to view_. It is therefore necessary for all young and inexperienced sportsmen, who take the field with Spaniels, not to be too tardy in their own motions, but to let their agility keep pace with the incessant activity of their canine companions, without which they may expect to cover many a weary mile without a successful shot. Spaniels, when broke for the field, should never be taken out more than one young dog at a time, and that in company with one or more old and seasoned dogs, to whom they will mostly attend in every action, and the sooner acquire the necessary knowledge of the business they are engaged in. If young dogs are taken out alone, and in too great number, their great eagerness, and emulative opposition, frequently occasions them (particularly in covert, where they are safe from correction) to hunt or chase _one_ thing for want of finding _another_; and in the event of not being corrected when necessary, to become uncertain _babblers_, and never to be relied upon. The judicious and experienced sportsman will never be seen to hunt SPANIELS with POINTERS either in or out of covert; for, although it can do little or no injury to the former, it may very materially warp the _integrity_, if not totally destroy the principles of the latter.