Not all who work in the woods are entitled to the name of woodman: a
word standing for an ancient and an honourable calling. The woodman
proper is an estate official, a sort of general foreman over the
underwood and the timber. He ranks a grade below the gamekeeper. A man
of parts, he knows his woods through and through. He can tell you the
exact age of the various growths of underwood, for it is his duty to
advise what shall be cut each year, to map it out in lots for sale, to
undertake the marking and felling of timber, and to see to the upkeep
of covert fences, and the trimming of rides. He receives a retaining
weekly wage, except when he is turning underwood to account or laying
a hedge, when he is paid by the piece. In time of need, the gamekeeper
calls on the woodman's assistance, and he seldom goes long in want of a
rabbit. The keeper is always generous with his friends and allies.
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