If ever there was an ambassador of beagles, it was Rufus. From his white tipped tail, to his strong nose he stood stout. His prodigious howl feared by rabbits and boars, and beloved by school children. Wherever he went, you could rest assured no scrap of food remained after his passing. He was as comfortable in the field as he was at home, curled upon any exposed foot, snoring loudly. His affection for me knew no ends, and for everything I put him through he remained my staunch companion. But our time was cut short, and cancer was the one thing he couldn't outrun. Rufus, you are forever in my heart, and I'm so sorry we had to say goodbye this way. Until Valhalla Bud.