[Harold Pickens]

Many were concerned that I did not go to the Southern this year, but let me assure you that I am back to normal( what ever that is.). I did not go because the best dog I have ever owned was failing, and I wasnt going to be gone when that time came.
Betty (Black Butt Betty) was the most productive dog I have ever hunted behind. She was also a real sweetheart and charmer. She would have been 15 next week, so she had a long life. Her nose was almost too good--she would be on solid point before other dogs even got birdy. On a plantation quail hunt when she was 11, the black dog handler, Moses, told the plantation owners that
" 'dat be da best lady dog ever hunted dis here plantation". Grouse were her forte.
Many of you saw her at Hausmann's, as I took her every year. She had a particular affinity for Edgar.
By breeding she was mostly Ryman, from my original setter who came from Walt Lessor's kennel.
She is buried in the back yard with daffodils and snowdrops planted on her grave. One I will never forget.