Harper's Young People, October 19, 1880 An Illustrated Weekly

In a sun‑splashed cornfield, a group of country boys gathers for an impromptu rabbit hunt that quickly becomes a chaotic adventure. Their loyal, half‑hearted dog Ben and the hyper‑active hound Whip add comic tension as the boys argue over tactics, guns, and the best way to flush the hidden quarry. The dialogue crackles with the easy banter of youth, while the squire’s boast about his bumper crop hints at the stakes that turn the ordinary field into a lively battlefield.

As the boys scramble through stalks, each harboring a secret hope of sighting a prize rabbit, the scene swells with anticipation and the smell of fresh earth. Their plans teeter between daring bravado and nervous whisper, and every rustle of corn suggests a glimpse of the elusive prey. Listeners will feel the rhythm of a bygone summer day, the camaraderie of rustling leaves, and the simple thrill of a hunt that promises more than just a catch.