Modern Billiards
The game of billiards has reached such a high degree of popularity, that the billiard- table has become a requisite in every well furnished modern household, and to play a fine game is regarded as one of the accomplishments of every well educated gentleman. To reach the proficiency of the great experts, is not, of course, easily attainable ; but to become a good amateur player is not an extravagant ambition. It is within the province of every one gifted with ordinary natural abilities, and aided by a good text-book, which will guide him step by step to master the strokes usually presenting themselves in a game, to reach a degree of skill which will entitle him to rank as an accomplished player. The present treatise, besides answering such a purpose, will be found to be the most perfect work on billiards ever offered to the public. The history of the origin and progress of the game, with notes and illustrations, has been compiled from the best sources, while the theory and practice are clearly explained by numerous diagrams carefully drawn and easily understood. The groundwork and general plan of this publication are taken from the “Game of Billiards,” by Michael Phelan, which has been recognized for the past twenty-five years as the standard authority on billiards in America, and the copyright of which is owned by the present editor. This work, having been rewritten from time to time as the game progressed, and having passed through eleven editions, has fulfilled its mission, and now steps aside to make room for a successor whose work it is to impart information and instruction on the game as played in modern times