A Handbook of Billiards
I am tempted to record my protest against a rather old- world prejudice . Billiards is not a disreputable game . On the contrary, it is one that may be played, and is constantly played, by the highest, the noblest, and the most worthy in the land . It is only disreputable when its practice descends from a rational amusement to a mere excuse for gambling. We must all have our diversions and our pleasant idlenesses ; and so long as we subordinate them to our proper avocations , no harm can arise . Billiards , in the hands of gentlemen, need not become a pursuit ; nor is it necessary that we should emulate, or be jealous of, the astounding feats of professional players. As well might the amateur gymnast compete with a Leotard, or the horseman rival a Ducrow !
This little book has been submitted to the revision of some of the best players of the day, and from them I have received numerous testimonies to its accuracy and general adaptability to the requirements of amateurs. I have been advised to insert some of these letters in this place, but it will perhaps be better to allow my little Handbook to introduce itself. If it contain any hint, counsel, or instruction , worthy preservation , it will make its own way : if these be absent, why then, it will die- deservedly .