The grouse were almost certainly released a few at a time from cages. For all the sport in it, Walsingham might just as well have fired into the cages and given himself more time for tea.}
The author, Bill Bryson, reflects on the practice of releasing grouse for shooting, suggesting the lack of authenticity in such a sport. He humorously implies that instead of the elaborate process of releasing birds, it would be more efficient and less time-consuming for Walsingham to simply shoot from the cages. This observation points to the absurdity and artificiality of the activity.
Bryson's comment highlights the contradictions of hunting as a pastime, where the thrill of the chase is undermined by the staged nature of the event. He critiques the idea of sport when it feels manufactured, indicating a deeper commentary on how private life and leisure activities can sometimes lack genuine engagement with nature.
