Fist of all chop off the front end (above the loin) and give it to the dogs. Divide the rest into eight or ten pieces and fry gently in a stew pan in oil until brownish. Drain in a slotted spoon and put to one side. Put into pan chopped up onion, carrot, parsnip and potato and saute gently for a few minutes. Put rabbit back in and add stock, if you have it, or water if not( to cover) plus ground pepper and a little salt and simmer gently for a couple of hours.
When the meat and veg. are tender, add chopped sage and thyme ( about a small handful) and put aside until next day. Not in the fridge, but in a cool place.
Nexy day bring to the boil, add small dumplings, cook 'til dumplings are done, put in a bit of gravy thickener if needed and serve. Lovely!!