ABSTRACT
There are points suggested by these words which merit the attention of everyone in England. The practice of athletics has become general. A strong interest in them, and an admiration for eminent athletes, characterize a great part of the nation; and these feelings of interest and admiration appear to be increasing. I do not know whether anyone has any doubt of the truth of this statement, but I think that it is easy to prove it. For instance, it may be said that every kind of athletics has its special paper, and in all newspapers considerable space is given to them. Both boys and men, when they have opened any paper; very soon turn to see what is said about them. People go in thousands to see matches of cricket, boating, and football, and running and bicycle races; matters connected with these matches keep the telegraph busy, and furnish the large headings for posters; they induce men of the highest position and gravest character to write to the newspapers, and to discuss such matters from a purely athletical point of view, leaving out of sight all moral questions which may happen to be involved. Portraits of athletes are everywhere, and their histories and condition are generally known. I was present when a certain distinguished man was introduced to a great English bishop. “He is the father of P. T. S—,” said his introducer, naming a youth well-known for his powers of cutting.
