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1909

CALCUTTA

PAPERCHASING RECORDS

BY

.-. y^ .»

CALCUTTA
THACKKR, SPINK AXi:> CO

190Q

CUTTA :
PRINTBD RY THACKKR, f^PINK AND CO.

BeMcatlcn.

TO

His ExctLLENCY

THE EARL OF MINTO,

P.C„ G.^f>.I.. G.M.I.E., G.C.M.G.'
VICEROY AND GO\hRNUR-c;EN KRAI, OF INDIA.

PREFACE.

The Editor desires to convey his acknowledgments
to all those who have so kindly assisted him in the com-
pilation of this, the Second Edition of the Calcutta Paper-
chasing Records, the hrst book dealing with this subject
having been published by ''C. C. M. " In the present
volume " C. C. M.'s" book is republished and the records
are brought up to the end of season 1907-08. Some
attempt has also been made to give a short history of
paperchasing and of its predecessor the old Calcutta Hunt,
and, what may principally interest paperchasing people, a
complete history of the Calcutta Paperchase Cup is con-
tained in this volume. The Editor has been greatly assisted
in obtaining these records b\' the kindness of the late Mr.
(iuy Temple of the Asian, and also by Mr. W. Xewson,
Manager of that Journal, also by Messrs. l])udley M}ers,
Thomas Watson, McLeod, Apostolides, West, Petersen,
Bigge, etc., etc., by contributions, photographs, and last,
but not least, advice I

The book goes forth with all its manifold imperfec-
tions thick upon it, claiming no, literary merit, but hoping
that its indulgent reader will be to its virtues ever kind,
to its faults a little blind ! The Editor cannot better
close this short foreword, than by quoting another
pilgrim, who tolled much both by night and by day : —

"The torch bhall be extinguished which hath lit
" My midnight lamp — and what is writ, is writ —
'• Would it were worthier I"

CONTENTS.

CMAP. I.— iHi': Orj) Calcutta Hunt
„ II.-— The Origin of Papkrchasixc.

„ III. — The History and Records oi

PAPERCHA5E CUP

„ I\. — The Heavv Weicht Cup
,, \\— The Average Cup

„ VI. — The Ladies' Cup

VII.— The Ponv Cup
„ VIII.— The Hunters' .Steeplechase
Appendix A

>f i> ••• •«• •«•

., v^ ••. ••• ...

the Cai.cutt

I

lO

1 1 r

ii8
130
139
M?

»53
29 f;
316

LIST OK ILLUSTRATIONS.

P(is:e.

'' We are never either so happy, nor so unhappy as we

imagine that we are I ^^ — La Rochefoucauld
H. E. the Earl of Minto, p.C, G.C.M.G., on his Grey Arab

New Minister ...
Mr. Thomas Watson

Mr. C. C. McLeod ("The Tougall")

Mr. A. L. Butler on the Rabbit

Mr. Latham Hamilton

" The Tougall " (Mr. C. C. McLeod) on Jack ...

Paperchase Dinner Menu, 1892

Chota Hazri on Cup Day

I'aperchase Dinner Menu, 1892

A Start. Mr. W. O. Rees leading ...

Mr. G. W. Walker (/'The Squire") ...

Mr. Gresson on Sligo

Mr. Gresson winning the Cup on Sligo

Dunnabie — Winner of Paperchase Cup of 1902

The Hares : Mr. J. D. West on Saxonbury, Mr. C. C.

McLeod on Collard and Collard ...
Dr. W. Forsyth on Corydon
Paperchase Dinner Menu, 1892
A Calcutta Paperchase — " Full Cry "
Mrs. Lamond Walker on Detective
Mr. R. H. A. Gresson and Monte Carlo
Mrs. Barrow on Flatcatcher
Miss Prophit on The Bun ...
The Ladies' Cup of 1905. Mrs, Perkins on Peep o'Day

making the running
Captain Holden's Pathfinder II
Mr. K. M. Hamilton on Good Chap ... ...

The Pony Paperchase Cup. Captain Smith on Midnight

leading
Captain Holdens Lord Harry

Frontisp

iece

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138

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140

142
144

I ;c

CALCUTTA PAPERCHASING RECORDS.

CHAPTER I.
The Old Calcutta Hunt„

"HPO attempt to accurately fix the date of the origin of
•■• paperchasing, as we know it in Calcutta to-day, is
possibly a task beyond the capacity of man. The records
of the past tell us that wherever youth and bravery have
been in company, and the pursuit of some beast of
venery has not been possible, a substitute of some sort or
another has quickly been found. The fox, as we like to
think, and parenthetically his brother the "Jack," stands
top of the class in the category of things created
to teach mankind how to ride and hounds how to
hunt ; and though history tells us that in the days when
they knew no better, the stag was the Royal beast of the
Chase, we may take it, that as soon as the fox was dis-
covered, the stag receded in popularity, till to-day, as
anyone may see from, an inspection of the Hound List,
the packs that pursue him are few indeed in comparison to
those devoted to the hunting of the '' Thief of the World."

The sporting people who lived in Calcutta in the
early part of last century and from whose organisation the
old Calcutta Hunt, the present Calcutta Paperchase Club, is
lineally descended, were quite of this way of thinking, and
it was in those days that we boasted a pack of hounds
which was sent out every year and sold at the end of the
season. The exact date when the Calcutta Hunt first came

B, CPR I

into corporate existence, or who its founder was cannot be
accurately determined, but this much is certain that they
had a pack of hounds here many years before either
Madras or Bombay aspired to this dignity and distinction.
From the oldest available printed records it appears that
before 1822 there was a pack of thorough-bred fox-
hounds in Calcutta, and it was not until some years after
this that Bombay followed Calcutta's lead and imported a
pack every year, selling them off at the end of the season.
In this connection, however, it may be mentioned that there
is a record extant of a *' Bobbery Pack " having been in
existence in Bombay as long ago as 181 1, and the follow-
ing letter which appeared in The Asian in November
1906 gives some details of this fore-runner of the present
flourishing Bombay Hunt.

To

The Editor,

The Asian-
Sir,

I shall be glad to know whether there are any really old records of the
period when hunting with a pack of hounds first became common in India,
There is, I may mention, an authentic record of a bobbery pack having been in
active existence in Bombay in 1811 and cared for by some "Sons of Belial " as
a contemporary diarist terms them. The diary I allude to is that of Henry
Martyn, the translator of the New Testament into Hindustani and Persian.
As some of your readers may never have heard the derivation of the word
" bobbery " as given in a foot-note which refers to the late Col. Sir Henry
Yule's Hobson Jobson or Anglo- Indian Glossary^ I add it here as it is given : —

'* Bap-re " — ' Oh Father ' — the exclamation of Hindus when in surprise or
grief, hence a noise, a row: hence a Bobbery Pack or Hunt is the Anglo-
Indian for a pack of hounds of different breeds or no breed, wherewith young
officers hunt jackals {siC) and the likes."

The young men of 181 1 enjoyed sky races, too, but they raised Henry

Martyn's ire by contemplating " a great race on Sunday," and he had influence

enough as one of the Company's Chaplains to get the meeting put off by the

aid of his secular arm. " The Members of the Bap-re Hunt," he adds, " were

ex ceedingly exasperated ; some came to church expecting to hear a sermon on

hunting, but I merely prenched to them on the one thing needful. Finding
they had nothing to lay hold of, they had the race on Monday and ran Hypocrite
against Martha and jMary.""

Good old precursors of the Bombay Hunt !

Sd. — Thistle-Whipper.

The Calcutta Hunt of which, as we say, the Calcutta
Paperchase Club of to-day is the lineal descendant, is
of greater antiquity than the Bombay or Madras Hunts,
and it continued a more or less prosperous existence till
about the beginning of the seventies, when they
began to think that it gave them very poor fun and it
became necessary to go very far afield for their meets.
In the old Oriental Sporting Magazine for July 1829, the
following passage occurs relative to the country and pack
of hounds in Bombay : " In Calcutta there seems to be
no want of thorough-bred foxhounds, and it would be a
hard case if there was, considering the immense prices
given and the attention shown to the sporting men in
whose ships they are brought out." The same historian
regretfully continued : —

" From the want of a hunt similar to the Calcutta in
the Island of Bombay one can never expect to see a
pack of thorough-bred hounds on this side of India, at
least for a continuance. Bombay itself is unfit for hunting
— let alone the want of spirit for the thing — but what a
splendid country is Salsette — scarce ten miles distance."

This historian turned out to be a great prophet, for
Salsette is to the Bombay Hunt what the Ashby Pastures
are to another celebrated institution in Leicestershire.
However, we may take it from this that the Calcutta Hunt
was in even those early days a very flourishing concern.
The Bombay Hounds did not come into existence till 1830,
or a little later, if one is to accept the authority of the
Bombay scribe of the Oriental Sporting Magazine^

who, in the August number of that year, describes their
inauguration. Hunting was natu-rally a somewhat more
expensive game than paperchasing, and the subscribers
perhaps did not have one-half as much fun for their money
as we now do for our modest Rs. 20 per annum, which is
the maximum cost of Membership of the Calcutta
Paperchase Club. They used to hunt over the very
country with which we are all to-day so very familiar, and
wTiting in the Bengal Sporting Magazine \n 1833, a sporting
correspondent said in recounting his memories of the
joyous days that had gone and of the gallops he had
had with the Calcutta Hounds : —

"It was on the 6th of January 1826 A. D. that our fixture was Gurreah
Haut (beyond the sixth milestone: Ed.); instead of crossing the bridge, a&
usual, we turned short into the covers on the left ( Jungle we gallop through
nowadays every time the fixture is at this place. Ed.) where we soon found, and
away went one of the best jackals that ever was whelped, with old ' Modesty '
close at his brush, pointing for Russapuglah (The point was evidently in the
direction of the present location of the Tollygunge Club. Ed.). I got a good
and a fair start at the time, but being on a new purchase who was a slow one,
the pace beat me, though, thank God, by the time we reached Rypore Garden,
I had plenty of companions in misfortune ; • bellows to mend ' being the order
of the day. Our huntsman on ' Twilight,' our Mainstay W. N., Esq., on his
dear old Grey Mare, P. M., Esq., on the Miller and the Honourable J. E. were
the fortunate few who really saw the run and lived up to the hounds ; they were
never off their line for a minute nor turned a yard to right or left till they
ran their jackal to ground under the Prince's House at Russapuglah, point
blank five miles from where they found him. It was a smait thing^--short —
sharp, and I would almost add decisive, at all events the hounds accounted
for him and well deserved to have tasted him. It was the ultra pace every mile
of the way, and the fields were left in all directions. JNIany a clipping run
might I narrate from my memoranda during those prosperous times, but I fear
they would to our general readers prove uninteresting ; suffice it that during that
period everyone united in saying that the internal economy, as well as the
field management of the pack, had flourished in a manner till then un-
known in India. "

" Tarquin," the historian, who penned this account
of those early doings of the Calcutta Hunt, little thought

perhaps that eighty-two years afterwards a less worthy
recorder of the doings of the Calcutta Hunt would
gratefully garner his notes into a somewhat halting record
of hunting in Calcutta. It is not difficult to follow the
exact line that this stout *' Jack" took, and thanks to the
€xcellent map of the country, for which we are beholden to
Dr. W. C. Hossack, it is possible to almost " ride " the run
over again yard for yard. The Prince's House is, of course,
the big house with the two clock towers just before the
Tollygunge Bazar is entered, this side of the Tollygunge
Club. The country they traversed was not very different
possibly to that over which we frequently ride a chase at
Christmas time, excepting that our " paper foxes " are, as
a rule, marked to ground at the refreshment Kiosk in the
Tollygunge Steeplechase Course enclosure ! There were
of course many other hunts flourishing in India at the
time of the above record (1826), but the Editor thinks that
it may be safely claimed that the Calcutta Hunt was the
oldest of them all, and that it was "galloping" when many
other establishments were, so to speak, in leading strings.
There are, many other records of their doings in
those old sporting magazines, but considerations of space
must have a say in the matter, and with such a mass of
material to be crammed in between the two covers of this
volume, the Editor is reluctantly compelled to content
himself with reproducing the above, one of the earliest, if
not the earliest, record of the doings of this famous hunt.
They apparently commenced operations about December,
as we do now, and the country over which they hunted was
a very widely extended one, taking in, as it did, all that
part of the world over which we paperchase to-day, as well
as Barrackpore (they frequently met at Coxe's Bungalow on
the Barrackpore Road), Dum Dum, Budge Budge and
even farther afield up in the direction of Gourepore.
There is a record of a run on the 4th February 1834 when

meeting near the Dum Diim Church at ^^ Lieutenant
K.'s bungalow " they ran for an hour and five minutes and
their jack ran them out of scent somewhere near Cossipore,
after having run a wide ring to the west almost up to Coxe's
Bungalow. Perhaps, however, one could not do better in
order to give our indulgent readers a pen picture of what
the Calcutta Hunt was like at the end of Season 1833-34
than quote the following capital lines written by ''Nim
East" and published in the Bengal Sporting Magazine for
that year : —

THE CALCUTTA HUNT.

" Thus runs this world away." — Shakespeare.

Goodnight to the season ! — 'tis over —

Gay faces no longer are gay.
No more shall we meet at the cover

And pant for '• hark forward, away ! "
Now moping is many a hunter !

And napping is many a syce.
And thriving are Hooper and Gunter,

And VVarman. retailers of ice.
Now sportsmen are lounging at Thacker's

Bewailing their wonted pursuits.
And their faces are well nigh as black as

Will soon be the tops of their boots.

Red coats are exchanged for white jackets,

(A blessing exchanged for a curse)
And whips are resigned now for rackets,

Or pens, or perchance something worse.
Deserted and lone is the kennel,

The hounds are " away to the hills,"
To a place, — but you'll find it in Rennel,

Or mayhap it is mentioned in Mill's.
Goodnight to the season, — the tumbles.

The jollity* humour and fun,
The laugh at our neighbours, the grumbles

Whenever we had'nt a run.

When we had won the honor and glory,

The cigar in the mouth going home, —
The sandwich, the big stack of straw wc

Demolished outright at Uum-Dum —
The brandy and water, the bilkings

Attending our cover side meals,
The tank, into which our friend W — ns,

One morning, rolled head over heels.
The many and many a header

And roll which wide places entail,
And make many a red face look redder

And many a pale one more pale.

(Oh I that verse making I were a dab at !)

There's, — Cruel, that capital bitch !
And the way, that our huntsman on Abbot

Rode over the Gourypore ditch ;
And how, on the best day this season

We rode a friend's horse called the Friest,
How that he too, without rhyme or reason,

Was ordained to be lamed by Nim East.
How the Clipper's leg came to be broken.

And how at his fate we were moved ;
How his master, by way of a token.

Kept a hoof of the steed he so loved.

There's Lavender living in Clover,

There's the Colonel too touched to the core (corps).
Both lament that the season is over.

That hunting for them is no more.
Still we've plenty to talk of — the minute

And other discussions of late,
Schieroni, with notes like a linnet.

The bank, whose notes discord create ;
And steam, and now that the Coorg Rajah's

About from his throne to be hurled>
Th' Italian Society's adagios — •

The feuds in the medical world ; —

8

The Company from the Mauritius,
• The Forty thieves all of a row

The prancings of horsemen ambitious,

The capers of Madame Nouveau ;
And Agra, etcetera, the charter

' Bout which all the world daily chat,
And while one says, " what can they be arler ? "

Another asks, " what are they at ?"
But really I cannot discover

How all this can interest you.
Goodnight to the season !— 'tis over —

Goodnight ! Mr. Editor too.

NiM East.

The old hunt, as already noted, came to an end when
paperchasing began, but in more recent times various
private packs have at one time and another enjoyed an
evanescent popularity. In 1885-86, for instance, Lord
Herbrand Russell (as he then was), the present Duke of
Bedford, who was then in the Guards, and on the late
Lord Dufferin's staff, had a pack which used to hunt
anywhere and everywhere excepting in Calcutta, and. if
memory serves the Editor right, was whipped into by the
late Lord Ava, who was then Lord Clandeboye. Mr. A.
Milton has always been keen on hunting and has on and
off had a pack of hounds of one sort or another, generally
half fox-hounds and the rest 6i ttoXXoi. But it remained
for that sporting young nobleman, the Earl of Suffolk
and Berkshire, to make the only determined effort to
resuscitate the old days, and whilst on Lord Curzon's staff
he hunted Calcutta for two seasons 1899 to 1902, with a
pack which he had sent out from home to him, and he
showed fair sport, but came to the ultimate conclusion
that the country and the climate were all against hounds,
and finally gave it up. Whilst they lasted, however, the
S. Sz. B. Hounds were a decided acquisition, and no more
popular Master ever carried the horn than his Lordship.

Lord Suffolk, by the way, at the present moment is, one
hears, hunting his own pack of harriers from Charlton,
as his forbears used to do before him, and he has also
been named as the next Master of the V. W. H., when
Lord Bathurst retires.

CHAPTER II.

The Origin of Paperchasing.

When the country round Calcutta was found to be
by no means of the best for the pursuit of the "Jack,'*
the hounds were given up and people turned about to
find a substitute. Thus was it that paperchasing began.
It is, however, as we have said, certain that where hunting
has not been found possible, from one reason or another,
some substitute has been usually adopted. Man is an
animal, whose instinct is to chase something— the fox,
the stag, the hare — or even sometimes a little dear !! Do
we not all remember that pious ^neas and his followers,
after a most troublesome voyage up the Mediterranean,
when they landed on the northern coast of Africa, seasick
as they were, first turned their thoughts to hunting?
We have heard of what sort of horse it was that Puer
Ascanius, the light-weight of the party, bestrode, and we
are led to believe that even old Pater Anchises, who had
not had a ride since his son carried him out of Troy
pick-a-back, attended the meet on wheels (of sorts)
possibly, a hand-propelled chariot, the Bathchair of
that far-off period ! Adonis again, who was killed out
pigsticking, could not be persuaded by even the most
beautiful of all the goddesses to stay and dally in the
shade, when there was a chance of a chasse offering !
Hippolytus, also killed when driving back from hunting,
his chariot horses taking fright at a mad bull sent to
worry him by Poseidon — the old reprobate — was deaf

1 1

and blind to the blandishments and attractions of Phaedra,
when he had a chance of going out and putting in a
day's sport with Artemis ! Even Adam, we believe,
if he had not had such a troublesome wife, would
have taken on hunting in the Garden of Eden, and
one has always been inclined to think that, with all
the horses in the world at his disposal, he must have been
rather a muff not to have had a really top-hole stud ! What
would not some of us give for this misguided man's
chances ! Let us, however, try to think gently of Adam
and forgive him, because he elected to confine himself to
digging *' tormots " and " taters " in preference to owning
a stud and a pack of hounds, such as would have put Lord
Lonsdale and the Quorn in their smartest days to the
blush ! He had a hatful of worries in the house, what with
that pestilent Serpent, and Ev^e's nasty jealousies of a lady
named Lilith. Adam, however, was possibly the one
instance of a man who had a chance of as many horses as
he could possibly want and did not avail himself of it!
We have merely dipped into the past in this way to em-
phasise our point that wherever there has been a man and a
horse, unless Giant Circumstance is one too many for him,
he will devise sport of some kind or another to fill in his
spare time and give dull care the go-by. Paperchasing,
one is credibly informed, did not originate in this sporting
city, for there is the excellent authority of the distinguished
sportsman, to whom this volume has been respectfully
dedicated, that it flourished exceedingly beyond the border
in Scotland fifty or sixty years ago. This is earlier
than 1868, the year in which it was first inaugurated in
Calcutta. It is related that an old uncle of H. E. Lord
Minto's was once carrying the paper in a paperchase
organised in, we presume, the neighbourhood of the
country hunted by the Duke of Buccleuch's hounds, when
one of his constituents tried to stop him and talk politics.

12

To say the least of it the occasion was ill-chosen and the
*' hare " put his friend off by shouting that he was a
"hare " and had no time to stop and talk about elections.
The well-meaning tortoises who interrupt us when we are
busy, doubtless have their uses, but when one is "on an
engagement" to ride they are apt to be voted a nuisance.
In the Crimea, also, it is said that '' paperchasing " was
popular, as unlike their more fortunate brethren in arms
who served with Wellington in the Peninsula, they could
not arrange to have hounds. In France, also, it is claimed
that this form of sport has long been in vogue, and the
French sporting press now and again contains accounts of
things very similar to the Calcutta paperchase of to-day
as being held by various sporting Cavalry corps. The
Editor has been assured that such a thing has been known
•even in the Bois de Boulogne and at Fontainebleau, where
it is said the country is excellent for this class of adven-
ture, artificial fences being erected to supplement anything
that may be offering in the way of natural obstacles. In
Spain also they have to-day a form of paperchase, or at
any rate a pursuit of some one who acts as a " hare " and
carries a rosette on his shoulder, which has to be torn oft
by the "hounds" ere a ''kill" is registered: and in
Malta, as Mr. Dudley Myers, the President at many paper-
chase dinners, has told us, the garrison go in for it. There
was recently a picture in one of the illustrated journals
of Lord Charles Beresford, who was as plucky, if
not as finished, a horseman as his brethren. Lord
Marcus, and the ever-to-be-lamented Lord William,
laying the paper in a paperchase organised by the ofticers
of the Mediterranean Squadron, whilst it was at anchor
in the beautiful harbour of Valetta, Perhaps Byron,
who was a sportsman to the back-bone, meant something
like this when he referred to "the joys of La Valette."
The Editor does not know : this is merely a surmise !

:4.Ai*

13

Therefore, although Calcutta may pride herself upon
possessing- possibly the oldest organised Paperchase Club
in the British Dominions, and tohave had a larger succession
of years of this form of sport than many other places, she
cannot claim to have been the nest, in which was hatched
this admirable substitute for that sport of Kings which
Jorrocks has told us is the "h'image of war with only
five and twenty per cent, of the danger." In his excellent
preface to the previous records of the Calcutta Paper-
chases written by " C. C. M.," initials which do not
conceal the identity of Mr. C. C. McLeod ("The
Tougall "), and the results of whose laborious researches
are repubHshed in the present volume, he makes the
following statement as to the actual date when the first
Calcutta paperchase was organised.

]\Ir. McLeod wrote in November 1899 : —

As far as I can make out, the tirst attempt at paperchasing was made some
time in 1870, the leaders in the institution being Crooke, Brancker, Alexander,-
Landale, Sam Carlisle, George Fox, etc., followed a couple of years later by
Job Trotter. Fred Carlisle, Charlie Moore and others, and though in those days
the fields were smaller and a gallery non-existent, the fun was as keen as now
to those who did ride regularly in them. It should, how-ever, be mentioned
that at this time a pack of Fi)x-hounds was annually imported and sold afier
the hunting season to Regiments up-country. This coupled with such paper-
chasing, as there was, provided for those wants of riding men, which later were
met by the greater development of paperchasing when, for various causes,
hunting had to be abandoned. This greater (ievelopment set in about 1876, and
there were then two seasons, the first in the cold weather and the second in the
early part of the rains. The commencement of the monsoon paperchases heral-
ded the inauguration that year of the Monsoon Sky Races, and the combination
gave a noticeable impetus to the sense of sport in our community, which brought
about a large addition to the ranks of local sportsmen, and the acquiring of many
a horse of the paperchase stamp by men who had before been content to tramp
about on foot. In this year also the paperchases were for the first time reported
in the press, which crowned them with a halo of prestige before wanting. The
articles which appeared in the Statesman under the heading of " Midsummer
Madness," signed •' F. Golightly," appear to have originated the model which
future writers followed, and included accounts of all the local amusements afloat.
Since then the paperchases have been kept regularly going in the cold weather..

.Although the new Railway and civilization generally have driven us quite out of
Ballygunge, an extensive and most suitable part of the country round Jodpur is
still available, and will be for many years, I hope. The popularity of this sport
is so well known that it is unnecessary for me to say anything about it. Let the
unbeliever find his way out to Jodpur on any paperchase morning and he will
be more than surprised to see the large number of people who find their way
to see a paperchase at such an early hour, while the Cup day seems to bp the
signal for a regular exodus of every person in Calcutta, who can raise a crock
or pay twelve annas for a ** ticca." Amongst them may be seen the winner of
the first paperchase Cup tOi^ether with two or three well-known sportsmen who
took part in the first chase in 1870. The addition of an Average Cup last, and
this year, has no doubt added very considerably to the interest taken in the
weekly meets, while a cup for the heavy weights has also been presented by a
spotrsman who has won the Cup on more than one occasion, and whose record
of spills and broken bones, not to speak of horses killed in paperchasing, will
be difficult to beat." ,

Thanks to various good sportsmen who have kindly
furnished the Editor of this book with their experiences,
this account of what happened can be amplified and the
date corrected. Mr. Edward E. Bigge, who left India
about nineteen years ago, and Mr. Thomas Watson who
is still in Calcutta to-day and therefore a most valuable
witness, and Mr. G. W. F. Buckland, until quite recently
in India, have given their testimony which proves that
Mr. McLeod makes the date about two or three years
later than the actual one, about 1867 or 1868. Mr. Bigge
wrote to a well-known sportsman in Calcutta, when he
heard that it was intended to compile a history of paper-
chasing, the two following letters : —

I.

Watton Housr, EIkrtford,
April yth.

It is years since we met, but I have just been reading the Overland English-
man and see you were presiding at a Paperchase dinner and talking about the
early history of Calcutta Paperchases. Strange to say, I can tell you the history
of the first. It was got up either in December 1868 or possibly 1869 by Brancker
of Ewing & Co , Butler of Gillanders, Beebee of the Educational Department, and
a few friends joined ; the meet was at the Racket Court, and they went along

15

out into the Tollygunge country. Butler, Brancker and I lived in a flat in
Mrs. Ewing's boarding house, next I think to Jardine, Skinner's house in Chow,
ringhee, and we spent the night previous in tearing up paper for scent. I was
not present at the Chase, for I had no horse, save a Buggy horse. That was
I believe the first Paperchase.

II.

June ist^ 1905.

I was very glad to get your letter of 26th April and to know that my
recollections of the early Paperchases were of some use. As regards your
question as to the original home of the Paperchase, I am afraid I don't know
anything about it in Spain or France, but I do remember of itt existence in
China. I was to have gone to China in 1866, and I know that I used to hear
of Chases on Ponies, after a paper trail, as one of the forms of amusement to
which I might look forward, but I never went out, as the financial crash of
1866 brought my would-be employers to grief, so my evidence is only hearsay.
1 fancy it was at Shanghai.

How it originated in Calcutta, is beyond me. Brancker of Ewing & Co.,
and Beebee of the Educational Department were certainly the moving spirits.
Beebee lived in those days with Sutclifife and Croft (of the Educational
Department) and Roberts (E. T. Roberts). But I don't think they were any of
them Paperchasers. [Our friend is of course wrong as regards Mr. Roberts as he
was the winner of the first Paperchase Cup in 1874-75 o'^ ^^d Deer. — Ed.] I
think I remember a Chase once at Dum Dum, in which Tommy Watson and
Geo. Fox had a part.

Mr. Thomas Watson was good enough to send to
the Editor the following reminiscences : —

"With reference to your letter that appeared in to-day's ^^ Englishman^'
I enclose a cutting from the old Oriental Sporting Magazine that may be of
inierest to you. Before Paperchases were regularly started in Calcutta,
fox-hounds were brought out every season from home, but they were found so
unsatisfactory owing to the closeness of the country and the scent remaining
such a short time after the sun got up, and so many jackals getting afoot at
the same time that they were abandoned. Then towards the close of the
season, a sort of hunt Steeplechase would be got up at Ballygunge, Barrackpore
or elsewhere, and the enclosed cutting is an account of one of them. I may
add that the Paperchases were originally started at Rowland House, Ballygunge,
in the late sixties, where a sporting chummery lived consisting of — George Fox
of Geo. Henderson <s. Co., Richard Brancker of Ewing & Co., Colin Smith of
Graham & Co., Thomas Watson of Borradailc Schiller & Co. They first had
a bobbery pack and then got up a subscription pack of fox-hounds which were

i6

housed over the stables at Rowland House. Brancker was the Huntsman.
Then finding no sport was to be got out of them, they started the Paperchases
and Steeplechases. I well remember Brancker coming in quite excited one
morning saying that he had discovered a natural Steeplechase Course at Tolly-
gunge, which is the present one used by the Turf Club, and that there was a
mound of earth, that would do for spectators. This has since been converted
into the Grand Stand. Lord Mayo, who was assassinated at Port Blair, used
frequently to attend the Meets of the Fox-hounds, but had reluctantly to give
them up, as he said it was more like chasing an old woman's cat round a
village, than fox-hunting.

The following is the extract which Mr. Watson sends
us from the Oriental Sporting Magazine — Racing Calen-
dar. It is headed " Barrackpore Steeplechase, June 21st,
1870'' :—

" As there is nothing of any particular importance now impending in the
way of sport, it may, perhaps, interest some of your readers to hear what was
the result of a "Steeplechase" at Barrackpore in the " rains." Unfortunately
two dry sunny days that had quite led us to hope for a light going course and a
" close thing" ended on Sunday night with torrents of rain, that made the
ground very holding — like a good wheatfield after a thaw. Monday morning
broke cold and cloudy with a light drizzling rain, just similar to a first meet at
home in November. Greatcoats and wrappers were in great request, and more
thnn one short pipe and brandy flask were to be seen handed about. In spite of
the " cheerless weather " to the astonishment of all, there appeared to be no end
to the arrival of equestrians, and about half-past six, when the weather cleared,
and men emerged from their respective shelters, there might have been num-
bered, as near as possible, 200 spectators, more or less well mounted, and bent
on seeing the game played out. There was some delay in waiting for two
good horses that had either gone to the wrong end of the course, or were_ other-
wise absent, and meanwhile most of the spectators rode on to select their pet
jumps and difficulties, but by half-past six ic out of the 12 horses engaged were
at the post, and got away to a good start. They arrived pretty abreast at the
first post and rails, most uncompromisingly stifif, and considering the heavy nature
of the ground very unpleasant for the little ones ; a little grey smashed the top
rail with a fall, and let through two doubtful ones, and the rest cleared it, with
the exception of *' Ivanhoe " who refused, but taken at it a second time cleared it
cleverly, and put on steam after the field. *' Faugh-a-Ballah " drew away and
appeared to have it quite his own way for the next few fields, when he was joined
by " Ivanhoe " and " Have-a-Care," the rest following pretty close. Then came
banks and ditches — in and out post and rails — and a nasty drop into a lane, so far
pretty well managed by the entire field, without any perceptible difference in

Jvlr. Thomas Watson.

17

their places, as the jumps were so close together and the turns so sharp, that
any extension of the horses was impossible, and it was not over-easy to find
the line. Up to the lane the running was much as above described, and the dis-
tance covered about three-quarters of a mile. Then some open country gave a
chance of putting on steam, and the big walers walked away from the little
country-breds just as they liked, and the race appeared a hollow thing for
*• Faugh-a-Baliah," but "Ivanhoe," judiciously ridden, had recovered his first
loss in the slow in and out fencing, and was in the wake of the leading horse,
closely followed by that exceptionally clever little country-bred " Have-a-Care."
In coming out of the last stiff enclosure, poor *' Faugh-a-Ballah " made a
mistake over a bit of loose timber, and unseated his rider, and the hopes of
Barrackpore with him, and gave the '"pas " to Ivanhoe " and *' Have-a-Care "^
in which order they were landed, with •' Faugh-a-Ballah " and " Rob Roy " well
up, and the ruck headed by the grey mare " Polly " who had managed to get
along in spite of previous disasters. The race was entirely in the hands of the
walers after the first mile, and an unusually good stamp of walers they were.

But all praise is due to the wonderfully game little horse " Have-a-Care " and
the way she was handled, though had the last two post and rails been as strong as
the first, it is more probable that both the country-bred and " Rob Roy " would
have had the wind knocked out of them. Barrackpore has failed to win its
laurels on its own ground, better luck in the race meeting next October ; but it is
an undoubted satisfaction to see good horses well ridden, and let nobody despise
the active well-bred country-bred. On such a course the betting was in their
favour before the rain. All seemed delighted and well pleased, and the
presence of the fair sex in goodly numbers, both on foot and horseback, kept
everything in perfect propriety, and a shower of thanks are due to our energetic
Secretary who improvised and carried out all the arrangements.

Riders.

Mr. Alexander's

Mr. Thomas Watson's

Mr. Newcomb's

Mr. Charnock's

Mr. William's

Mr. A. L.'s

Col. Fisher's

Mr. Ratcliffe's

Mr. Weston's

Mr. Mitchell's

Mr. I. Landale's
Mr. Posner's

B, CPR

.. b.

w.

g. Ivanhoe

... Mr. D. Landale

.. I

.. b.

cb.

m. Have-a-Care

... Owner

...2

.. b.

w.

g. Faugbra-Ballah .

,.. Mr. Kinnear

.. b.

\v.

g. Rob Roy

... Mr. Law

••4

•■ g-

cb.

m. Polyanthus.

.. b.

w.

g. Butcher.

.. b.

cb.

h. V. C.

.. b.

w.

g. Philosopher.

.. b.

w.

g. The Moor.

.. b.

w.

g. The Codey,
scratched.

.. b.

w.

m. Julia.
Happy Boy.

i8

This Extract from the Oriental Sporting Magazine
would possibly be more fittingly included in the subse-
quent chapter upon the Hunter's Steeplechase and its
history, but no apology is made for its insertion here as
it was a direct outcome of the organisation which is to-
day represented by the Calcutta Paperchase Club. There
is one more very interesting letter which may with advan-
tage be quoted in this preliminary canter over the initial
fence of a very heavy undertaking, and which was sent to
me by a gendeman who rode in the Paperchase Cup
of the year before last and who in the old days was well
known amongst the sporting blades of those times under
the soubriquet oi ''The Bummer" (Mr. C. D. Petersen).
It gives us a little side-light upon early days and brings
back to some of us the face of many a missing friend,
some, alas, who have jumped the big '' boundary fence"
into the Unknown Country, and some again whose actual
connection with the East has long since been severed.
Mr. Petersen's letter is as follows : —

loth March^ 1906.

I am writing this on the spur of the moment after my return from the
Paperchase dinner. I rode in my first Paperchase in 1878. It was started
from the big trees on the Ballygunge Maidan and went straight through the
Bodyguard lines and across the Ballygunge Circular Road through what is now
Milton Park and finished somewhere near the Red Road, the paper taking a
big circuit to the left before the finish. Of course there was no railway in
those days. The paper was laid by Mr. Crooke of Crooke Rome & Cq. (since
amalgamated with Kettlewell Bullen & Co.) and I rather think Latham
Hamilton was the other hare. Will Dickson, the facetious correspondent of
the '* Statesman" officiated as Starter on a ^rey waler and going from point to
point in order to take notes, and I remember an indignant letter appearing in the
issue of the paper following that in which the account of the Paperchase
appeared, protesting against the practice of a man, who did not go over the
jumps himself, being allowed to criticise the riding of the man who had to.
Poor Will Dickson was as fine a rider as I have ever seen on the flat, or across
country and was a great horseman and a good vet. though his legitimate business
was to preside over the cash of the Bank of Bengal. He eventually died as
Dr. Dickson, Professor of Veterinary Science in the United States of America,

19

havinjT made a great reputation over there as a writer on the shoeing of horses,
and he was eventually made Chief Veterinary Surgeon to the Government.
Amongst the fellows who followed the paper in those days were Alexander,
of Geo. Henderson & Co., alas long since joined the majority, Geo. Fox of the
same firm, who caught a chill hunting at home and died of pneumonia, James
Henderson, Millett, Cheetham alias "Jack Spraggon," Keith Douglas, Fred.
Carlisle. The Andersons of the Park, Slater of the Bank of Bengal on a
wonderful jumping cob, by name " Merrylegs," Charlie Muir of the Bodyguard,
Geo. and Willie Thomas, Charlie Moore on Duchess, Edwards also of Gillanders
Arbutlmot & Co. His nom dc course used to be "' Mr. Gateacre" — poor old Jim
Thomas, who we thought had made himself immortal by the excellent manner
in which he conducted the Sky Races, poor *' Jock Mclnnes" (Mr. **Goit Jack"),
*' Dynamite" Thomson, ** Harkaway" Simpson, who was killed being thrown
from his dogcart on the Red Road, Mr. Peel, who was lame, and Henry Agnew
who had only a leg and a half. There was good old Frank Barnes, also a
cripple, but who used to ride as hard as any of them. He was a brother of
Sir Hugh Barnes, who was Private Secretary to Sir Rivers Thompson at
Belvedere. He is probably still hunting the wily paper on " Reindeer" in the
happy hunting grounds he joined long since. Where is Captain Egan who used
to show us the way on " Gang Warily," Captain Webb, who many a time steered
Mr. Geo. Walker's " Squire" to Victory. Major Cook "The Meejor," as we
used to call him, as fine a horseman as you could wish to meet, and who used
to handle the ribbons to perfection, always a four-in-hand to any Meet, be it at
ToUyiiuiige, Dum-Dum or Barrackpore. Noel Watkins who used to go very
strong on " Norma" is with us still, so is Mr. Collin who used to pilot that
useful weight-carrier and pigsticker " Black Prince." Poor Bill Beresford has
gone, so has Jim Petrie. Do you remember the sporting match between these two
owners? Premier Lord William up and Mr. Petrie's Skipper. Charlie Muir
in the saddle. Premier won by a head. What has become of Capt. Learoyd,
commonly called the " Bricklayer " presumably because he was a Sapper, good-
looking Charlie Hum then an A. D. C. at Government House, lately with us a
full blown and retired Colonel, globe-trotting. Charlie Harbord, always very
straight and hard-riding. James Hopkins of the old 90th, the owner of " Tele-
gram," and Major Humphreys who developed into a Sporting Author — '' Exeter '
was his horse. Amongst the ladies of those days Mrs. Cook was facile princeps.
She was an extraoruinaiily good horsewoman. She used to ride her husband's
horses in their training work and won the Paperchase Cup on Champion in 1883.
She was a broken-down old lady last time I saw her at home, very ill and feeblc;
and I doubt very much whether she is still alive. Spooner Hart was compara-
tively speaking a light weight in those days. He used to ride lo'o when he was
Veterinary Surgeon to Messrs. Cook & Co. He could not ride that weight now !1
Poor Traill of the Mercantile Bank who used to win on Di Vernon and who was
killed in a paperchase at Madras, being dashed against a tree. Reggie Murray

20

will not hunt paper again ; at least not the kind of paper we are speaking of.
Nor will Mrs, Murray who used to ride to great purpose and very hard. Where
is Mrs. Saunders who used to ride most regularly in the early eighties? Where
is Capt. Rochefort, R.a.. as he then was, Waller and Harrison, the two latter
very constant attendants at the Chases. " The Duke " Mr. Macnair on " Nancy "
and many many others. Behar used to send its representatives and I remember
riding against, or alongside Jimmy McLeod and Rowland Hudson who were then
in their prime. It is getting late and I am afraid what I have put down will not
be of much use to you. What I think you ought to point out however in your
account of the Cup Chase is that Euler was abcut 31 years of age when he
arrived in India in 81 or 82 and that he is now 57 years of age. I think that is
a great performance finishing where he did yesterday."

The last "witness" it is proposed to call at this .stage
of the case is Mr. Dudley Myers who in his speech from
the Chair at the Paperchase Dinner on loth March 1906
said : —

"When I had the honour of presiding at this dinner last year, I little
thought that I should be called upon to again cccupy a similar position
twelve months later. Had I done so, I might possibly have dealt less fully
with my subject than I did on the last occasion, and so have left myself
with more varied material for my remarks to-night for, as it is, I find
myself more or less confined to current topics. Before, however, proceeding to
discuss these I sliould like to clear up one or two points in connection with the
remote past which I think are of general interest. To begin with, the date of the
first paperchase has always been accepted on the authority of " C C.M.'^ as
having been some lime in 1870, but curiously enough, the newspaper reports of
my remarks on this subject last year caught the eye of an old friend of mine at
home who wrote to me that he was able to tell me the history of the first paper-
chase and that it was got up either in December 1868 or in January 1869 by Mr.
Brancker of Messrs. Ewing & Co., Mr. Butler of Messrs. Gillanders Arbuthnot &
Co., Mr. Beebee of the Educational Department and a few other friends. The
meet was at the Racquet Court whence the field proceeded to the Tollygunge
country. My informant, Mr. Bigge, tells me that he and a few others spent
the night previous to the chase in tearing up paper for scent, and I am glad to
think that our hares have long since ceased to be called upon to add this burden
to their already heavy labours, otherwise the days of paperchasing would, I fear,
long ere this have been numbered among the memories of the past. Last year
I stated that I believed (erroneously as it has proved) that Calcutta was the home
of paperchasing on horseback, a remark which occasioned some controversy,
France, Spain, Jersey and Malta being all mentioned by my critics as probably
possessing a claim to the parentage of the sport.

B^tt^^^^aOBfi

Mr. C. C. McLeod (" The Tougall.")

21

I therefore wrote to my friend to ask him if he could throw any light on the
subject, to which he replied that he only remembered that pony paperchasing was
a fashionable pastime in China, at any rate in the middle of the sixties. I have,
however, since learnt on the highest authority that not only was this form of
paperchasing one of the amusements of the Officers during the Crimea, but that
to go still further back it was in vogue in Scotland, at any rate some fifty to sixty
years ago ; it would thus seem very difficult to locate either the country or the date
of^originjof the sport. Mr. Brancker and Mr. Beebee were, I am told, in any
case the moving spirits in introducing it into Calcutta, and it is therefore
to the energy and keenness of these two gentlemen some 38 years ago that we
owe the present existence of the sport here. I commend these facts to the notice
of our historian."

Before closing this preliminary chapter, it is only fitting
that, whilst paying a tribute to those who started the
game, we should not forget the names of those who have
carried it on since, and been the backbone of the Paper-
chase Club. The names readily occur to us of Messrs.
Perman (our beloved ''Old Man"), the Andersons, Tom
and John, Mr. Tom, alas ! now gone to the happy hunting
grounds, killed in a trap accident some few years ago, Mr.
John still, we are glad to say, with us ; George Walker
"The Squire" than whom few better horsemen ever sat
in a saddle ; poor Lawrie Alston whose famous mare
"Pilgrim" has given her name to a particularly bad
corner near Jodhpore where she met her death ; Latham
Hamilton that beait, ideal of G. Rs. now enjoying h s
otiitvi cum at home ; Tougall McLeod as hard-riding a
man as ever came from the north of the Tweed ; Peter
" Saxonbury " West ; the late Jim Petrie who after he left
off riding as though he had half a dozen spare necks in
his pocket, for many years undertook the onerous duties
of Starter; Jerry Prophit ; Ernest Gregory, Butler, Orrell,
"Durance" Cartwright ; Verschoyle whose exploits on The
Snob still live in our memory ; Mr. Rivers Currie, Reg.
Murray, Dudley Myers, Dring, Albert Rawlinson,
poor Donny Dickson, Col. Jim Turner, and a host

22

of Others of the old school down to the more recent
days of the present, Messrs. Barrow, Gresson, Deakin,
Turner, Allen, Stokes, Wheeler, etc., etc. How
greatly the Editor has been assisted in the present chapter
by those who have qobly answered Mr. Myers' call the
foregoing pages will most amply testify, and though the
data may be still capable of further elaboration by the
author, whose duty it will some day be to republish this
book, it is in all humility advanced that enough has,
perhaps, at present been said to give the indulgent reader
some insight into the beginnings of the sport which we so
ardently pursue to-day, and some slight introduction to
the many good men and true to whose sporting instincts
and to whose keenness paperchasing in Calcutta owes its
inception.

CHAPTER III.

The History and Records of the Calcutta
Paperchase Cup.

Our third Chapter, and we hardly feel that '' Chapter "
is a correct way to describe so very large and important a
part of these records, is to be devoted to the history of an
event which is probably, in company with the Kadir Cup,
one of the most difficult to win and most prized of any in
India. It is the Amateur Cross Country Blue Riband,
and certainly one of the hardest, hottest and most trying-
rides that mortal man can take on. It takes far more
winning than any steeple-chase in India, by reason of the
thousand and one added possibilities, the bigger fences,
the hard ground, and last but certainly not least, the
distance. The course is always nearer five miles than four,
and there are, as a rule, anything from 20 to 25 fences,
most of them substantial "mud" walls, i.e.^ obstacles
built out of cut sods, and in height varying from 3 ft. 9
ins. to 4 ft. 2 ins. and some even higher, the big bank at
the end of the Bund Country havjng to the Editor's personal
knowledge measured a good 5 ft. on a Paperchase Cup
morning, when it happened, as it usually does, to be
included in the list of obstacles.

Then, again, the Cup is run at a pace that is consider-
ably faster than they usually go with hounds, and as
most of the horses competing are thorough-breds and quite
capable of holding their own in a far more ambitious arena,
it can be well understood that they do not exactly crawl \

24

The first essentials are, therefore, something that can
gallop, jump and stay, and that is hardy enough and
sound enough to have come through the season without
accident or mishap. Run as it is in the boiling month of
March, by which time the Ballygunge Country has been
baked to the consistency of bricks, and when the ploughs
are little better than a collection of clods as solid and as
unbreakable as cannon balls, when the lanes and the roads
are deep in a choking dust, it gives those who have never
participated in one of these hard-fought battles a small
conception of what it is that the aspirant to fame has to
take on. Taking all these things into consideration,
imagine yourself on the back of a vigorous horse that
takes a lot of holding, wedged in the midst of a field that
certainly will number a couple of dozen, possibly more,
charging a fence that is so narrow that scarcely six of you
can have it abreast, a fall a certainty that you will have the
rear rank in the small of your back, and probably a
couple of them down on top of you, for it is quite im-
possible early in the race to pull out and avoid the '' slain";
then a desperate jostle down a narrow lane with deep
ditches on both sides, a greasy turn by a tank at the end of
it, and a scramble through a belt of jungle where you will
probably get more than one vigorous sapling, or a good
imitation of the "wait-a-bit" thorn, tearing the nose off
you — and all the while a dust-storm, and a steam
bath from the sweating horses all round you — and you
have a fair idea of how it feels to ride well up amongst
the hard thrusters who go for this race I We have said
nothing about the other, and the principal anxiety of
keeping your weather eye open to see that you do not run
off the paper trail, or to take advantage of very little lapsus
on the part of the leaders in the event of their happening to
do so ! It is a saitve qui peut^ and the ** divil tak' the hind-
most" fight from the start to the finish ; quarter is neither

25

given nor expected, and there is only one spirit which per-
vades the whole of that galloping, hustling throng — ^* every
man for himself, and if you can't get on, get out of the
way, or take your chance of being knocked over." In our
cramped Ballygunge Country both man and horse need
to be as handy and as active as cats, and to have as many
eyes as the intending purchaser of a horse ! ! Times there
are, of course, when owing to various circumstances the
field gets strung out and there is plenty of room, and
little discomfort, but, as a rule, there are at least a dozen of
them left well in it, even after two-thirds of the journey has
been accomplished, and there is no " let-up" to the fight.
Have we not many a time seen the first flight come into
sight in a compact mass in a cloud of dust and charge the
last few obstacles in three solid troops ; and have we not
also, ere now, seen this same thrusting, galloping mass
over-shoot the paper at the very last moment and let up
some patient, toiling tortoise, who had long ago given up
hope of ever seeing the faces of the leaders again, and who
was a hundred yards or more behind, and apparently hope-
lessly out of the hunt? Such is this race and such some
of its risks and anxieties.

The first Paperchase Cup was run in March 1874,
and was won by the late Mr. E. T. Roberts on Red Deer.
Mr. Roberts was then a hard-riding solicitor, and subse-
quently became head partner in the firm of Messrs.
Roberts Morgan & Co. He then sold out and went home
to eat his dinners and get called to the Bar ; and it is
probable that as a member of the higher branch of the
profession that the few who were his contemporaries, and
who are still in Calcutta, best remember him. Red Deer
was only a 14- 1. Mr. Otto Eck, who is still in Calcutta, all
but won this Cup, as he was leading close to the finish, but
his horse ran out at a fence, and let up Red Deer who had
previously held a big lead but had likewise refused, and

26

Mr. Roberts was able to. sail home a winner. There was
apparently no further race for the Cup until February,
1876, when on the 17th of that month the second Calcutta
Paperchase Cup was won by a Mr. Bartlett on a horse
called Jolly Boy, who led all the way and won in a canter.
On this occasion the Paperchase Cup Course lay over a
portion of the old Ballygunge Steeplechase Course recently
referred to in an interesting leading article in The Asiatiy
and to quote from the account of the race given in " C. C.
M's " excellent book, the following was the line which they
rode : —

*■ The course commenced near the sheep-pens, crossing the Red Road
(Dakuria Road), the paper leading over some natural bunds, and the remains of
an old artificial Jump, round to the right across to the mud wall, which all
negotiated in fine style, one veteran chaser taking the wing of the Jump as the
wall was not big enough. Here there was a sharp turn through a patch of
jungle and gardens, to two hurdles some sixty yards apart, then away to the
left, with more natural jumps down to a hurdle in a hollow. At this point 'Jolly
Boy' had a commanding lead, and, as the others came up. there were shouts from
the Cavalry looking on ' to put on the steam.' The next jump of any impor-
tance was the water, which all got safely over, followed a little further on by a
mud wall double. The course now laid over a portion of the old steeplechase
country of 1870.71 and the jumps caine fast and thick. Two small mud walls and
a ditch in front full of water had to be got over, but this last obstacle
unseated Mr. Bobstick (Mr. Lyall), who now became out of the hunt. A little
later 'Duchess' brought her rider to grief, and at the next wall, the scene of
the Badger's disaster, the rider of ' Mariner ' had a narrow escape, but with,
a pair of strong arms and long spurs, he righted himself again, and eventually
passed the post second, though a long way behind 'Jolly Boy ' who wen easily.
' Duchess ' was third, and the Veteran on ' Maid of Kent ' fourth, Mr. Barllett's
victory appeared very popular, and no doubt the best horse won."

In 1877 the Paperchase Cup was won by another
gentleman who was, and still is, well known in Calcutta,
namely, Mr. G. W. F. Buckland, another limb of the
law; in fact, law and " lepping " in the history of the
Paperchase Cup seem to have gone together, as there
are several members of the profession who have won it,,
to mention a few names, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Buckland^

ffl

Mr. Acworth and Mr. Barrow. Mr. Buckland, who was in
those days a bit lighter weight than he is to-day, and was
by no means a stranger in races between the flags, rode a
Httle mare named Mignonette. Then came Captain (as he
then was) C. W. Muir's three victories. Captain Muir
subsequendy commanded H. E. the Viceroy's Bodyguard,
and thanks to his three wins, the score of Cups won
by the soldier men, and the Bodyguard in particular, is
high, as Col., then Mr. "Jim" Turner has won this
Cup twice, and Captain Keighley, who is now with
the corps, has won a Heavy Weight Cup, Captain
Holden the present Commandant twice, and Col. Hunt and
Major Maxwell are also soldier-winners. The winner of
1881 was a Mr. Hopkins on Telegram who beat Lord
William Beresford on Oliver Twist ; and the next year,
1882, saw a lady victorious for the first and only time on
record, Mrs. ''Jim" Cook who won on Champion, her
husband being second on Claret and Lord William third
on Mariner, an old horse who had run second to Jolly
Boy in 1876. In 1883, Lord William scored his first win
on Premier, and in 1884 there was a dead-heat between
Mr. D. B. Myers on Zulu, and Mr. subsequently Captain
Learoyd a hard-riding Sapper on Handicap, poor Mr. Tom
Anderson being third on Commissioner. The late
Mr. Alston won it in 1885 on Pilgrim, Mr. Reg. Murray,
who is still in Calcutta, being second on Zil, and Mr. Tom
Anderson was again third on his faithful Commissioner.
In 1886, Mr. A. L. Buder, who is also still with us, won
it on Rabbit, who was only a pony, being little more than
14 hands. This horse was subsequently sold to Lord
Roberts, who rode him for many years on parade and oft'
it. The Cup of 1887 was a memorable race, as quite half
a dozen people claimed it, amongst them Mr. Apostolides,
Mr. E. H. Gregory. Lord William Beresford, Mr. Orrell,
etc., etc., but finally it Avas awarded to Mr. Tom Anderson

28

who was found to be the only one who had gone the correct
course. Mr. ''Tom" had had a fall with Commissioner,
lost his specs in the plough, spent quite a quarter of an
hour looking for them, and then he got aboard again and
rode home. It was, needless to say, a very well-received
victory, for every one felt that a right good sportsman
had got the Cup. In 1888, Lord William Beresford won
it on Diamond, beating Mr. Butler on Badminton and
Mr. Coward on Job Trotter, and in 1889, Colonel Jim
Turner won it on Britomarte. Britomarte's victory in
1889 gave her owner his first win in this race. She was
a small active mare, the exact stamp for paperchasing.
In 1897, Major Turner won it again on a horse who was
the very antithesis of Britomarte, named Aconite, a
big raw-boned sort, but speedy and a good fencer none
the less. In 1890, the late Mr. Acworth who had then
already carved a name for himself upon the scroll of
fame by his achievements on old Blackstone, on whom
he had won the Average Cup in 1889, won on a beauti-
fully-bred horse named Laddie, which the Editor managed
to induce him to buy. Laddie came to a tragic end
at Tollygunge subsequently, as when being ridden by
Mr. Stephen Ralli in the Hunt Steeplechase he fell dow^n
dead after passing the post. Grey Dawn, Mr. Butler's
horse ridden by Major *'Ding" Macdougall, and
Mr. Barrow's Flatcatcher, ridden by the owner, made a
great race of it all over, and Laddie was close up. In
1891, Mr. W. O. Rees, as the French say, '* arrived." He
had only just previously won the Kadir Cup, and made
his first serious descent upon the Calcutta Cup on a
blood mare named Charity, who was formerly owned by
Mrs. Otto Eck, and had been ridden well to the front by
that lady. In 1892 Mr. Rees scored again, but he was
very lucky to win with Kettledrum, as either Grey Dawn
{Mr. Butler's) or Flatcatcher (Mr. Barrow's) would have won

29

that Cup but for the impetuosity of their respective owners
who were riding so extremely jealous that they galloped off
the paper after jumping the water about two fences from
home. Mr. W. A. Dring won in 1893 on a very nice little
horse named Tantalus, another beau ideal of a paperchaser.
But in 1894 Mr. Rees again was invincible and beat them
all on a fine but somewhat difficult horse, The Drummer.
Mr. C. C. Campbell was the victor of 1895 and he also won
the Average Cup in that year, as also in 1894. Miss Theo
was another little one, and what a rare good bit of stuff
she was. During that period it was the U. S. A. first, the
rest of us nowhere ! ! In 1896 Col. Hunt won it on Post-
boy and this was another year when impetuous youth, as
represented by Messrs. Campbell, Boden, Rees, Butler,
Barrow, etc., over-shot the paper just before the last fence.
Aconite's win in 1897 has already been referred to ; and
in 1898 Mr. Barrow on Molly Riley got home first, though
the mare's victory was considerably aided by an accident
which befel Messrs. George Walker and Archy Birkmyre at
the last fence. In 1899 Baal ridden by Mr. F. G. ]\Iayne won
after leading all the way, though he was hotly challenged
at the finish by Mr. Barrow on Molly Riley against whom
the verdict was a short head. In the following year Mr.
R. A. C. Pugh began his attack on the trophy with Lady
Bird, and she won the Cup in 1900 in good style. Next
year, 1901, saw Mr. Gresson victorious on a very neat
Irish mare named Sligo, one of the very few English
hunters that has won this Cup. Mr. Gresson had hunted
her at home from Cheltenham and she was a magnificent
jumper. In 1902 Mr. Bell Irving furnished the winner in
a big grey Dunnabie, who was a lot better horse than
people ever imagined him to be. The rest of the story is
soon told, as Mr. Pugh annexed it in 1903 on Beeswing II,
a blood mare who was at one time by no means an ideal
ride over fences, and Major Frank Maxwell, v.c, in 1904 on

\o

English Lord, a clipper of the first water and a beautiful
fencer. In 1905 Mr. Pugh won for the third time on a
very fine hunter, named Mistletoe, who the following year
took a bad fall at Tollygunge Steeplechases and completely
knocked himself out. In 1906 Mr. R. H. A. Gresson won
it on a clean-bred chestnut horse named Nevermore — this
owner's second Paperchase Cup, and for the last two
seasons Captain Holden on his good horse Lord Harry,
probably the best horse for this game that we have ever
seen out, has absolutely squandered his fields, nothing
being able to even so much as make him gallop. Lord
Harry bids fair to do the hat trick as he is still undoubtedly
the best paperchase horse in India.

Before proceeding to set out m extenso the full true
and particular accounts of every Paperchase Cup that has
ever been run from the date of the institution of that event
to the time of going to press, it is an opportune moment to
publish the terms and conditions of the various Cups which
now-a-days are presented for competition. The following
is the list with General Conditions as to the qualifications
of owners and horses : —

1. The Average Cup. — For all Paperchase horses
and riders, qualified under the General Conditions. The
winner to be the horse ridden by its owner, placed oftenest
in the first six places in the Chases excluding the Paper-
chase Cup and any special Chases. In the event'of a
tie the winner to be the horse with the best average, in
calculating which the following marks will be taken : —

I St. 6 Marks. 4th. 3 Marks.

2nd. 5 Marks. 5th. 2 Marks.

3rd. 4 Marks. 6th. i Mark.

2. Challenge Cup. — The Cup to be held for one
year by the winner of the Paperchase Cup, but never to
be won outright. In the event of any one winning the

Paperchase Cup for three years in succession, a replica of
the Challenge Cup will be presented out of the Club
Funds.

3. The Pony Cup. — For all ponies qualified under
the General Conditions 14-2 and under. W. I. 14-2 to
carry I2st. Allowances as per C. T. C. Steeplechase
Rules. Ponies to qualify for the Pony Cup must qualify
in the Pony weekly chases. No Cup will be given
unless six entries in separate interests are forthcoming.

4. Heavy-weight Cup. — For all horses qualified
under the General Conditions; Competitors to walk iist.
7lbs. or over, and to ride I3st. or over. The winner will
have to draw these weights at the scales immediately after
passing the post.

5. The Paperchase Cup. — For all horses and riders
qualified under the General Conditions. Catch weights
over list. The winner will have to draw this weight at
the scales immediately after passing the post.

N. B. — The Paperchase Cup and Heavy-weight Cup
will be run off in one Chase, and Competitors will be asked
to declare their weight at time of entry. If a Heavy-weight
comes in first, he will have his choice of Cups. In the
event of his electing to take the Paperchase Cup, the
Heavy-weight Cup will not be given to the next Heavy-
weight in.

The Challenge Cup to go to the first horse in with
correct weight. Unless four start, no Heavy-weight Cup
will be given.

6. Ladies' Cup. — Ladies may ride any bond fide
Paperchase horse.

General Conditions.

I. Paperchase Riders must be members of the
Paperchase Club.

2. Paperchase Horses or Ponies must never have
won a race of any description, value Rs. 550 or over,
and in order to qualify for the Hunters' Races they must
have been ridden by their owners in the Paperchases to
the satisfaction of the committee.

3. All horses and ponies must be ridden by their
owners in Cup competitions.

4. Such horses and ponies must be the unconditional
property of their riders without any contingencies whatso-
ever, and have been so during the period of qualification,
except those horses which have been bought through the
C. L. H. Charger Fund.

5. All horses and ponies must be fairly ridden round
the course in not less than six chases during the season or
in the event of there being less than twelve chases then in
half the total number of chases run.

6. Horses and ponies to qualify must be ridden by
Gentlemen Riders in the required number of Chases and
must be placed among the first twelve in at least two
chases in the course of the season.

7. All horses and ponies must be ridden by their
oimiers in at least three chases in the course of the season.

8. No horse or pony trained by a Professional Trainer
during the period of qualification shall be eligible to
compete for any of the Cups, or Races open to Paperchase
Horses.

9. A register will be kept of all horses and ponies
qualifying for the Cups and Hunters' Races, and no horse
or pony will be deemed to be qualifying unless entered on
the register at the owner's request.

10. A Certificate Vill be necessary for each Cup or
Race of any description open to Paperchase Horses, and
will be issued by the Committee.

11. The Committee have the fullest power, all rules
notwithstanding, to exercise their discretion and judgment
in the granting of certificates for the Hunters' Races and
for the Paperchase Cup and in all other matters connected
with paperchasing.

12. Subscriptions to the Club must be paid to the
Honorary Treasurer.

The foregoing are therefore the conditions under
which these sporting contests are open to the world and
long may they continue to flourish. We now proceed to
set out the full details of all the Paperchase Cups up to
date, and we opine that, coupled with what has gone
before, they will form a complete and extremely full history
of a very interesting event.

1872-78.

There are no regular records of what happened during
this period of six years beyond the records of two Paper-
chase Cups, which were run for in March 1874 ^^^
February 1876, and some accounts which appeared in the
S^afes7??a7i from the able pen of " F. Golightly." So far,
however, as it has been possible, the following is a
complete record of the race up to date.

1874.

The field numbered a round dozen including Millett,
Alexander, Eck, George Fox on The Marquis, Roberts
on Red Deer, etc.

The start was from the left of the Gurriah Hat Road
near the Old Kennels, then down by the Railway towards
Jodpore and across the high ground towards the Sandy
Lane, through the old gates and old brick wall to the finish
on the Red Road. [

Red Deer led out, closely followed by The Marquis
and Mr. Eck for the first part of the journey when
Red Deer increased his lead considerably and showed

B, CPR T

34

a clear ten lengths at the water jump, about a mile from
the start. Here he refused twice, but eventually was
forced over, knocking off his rider's topee on landing.
By this time half a dozen of the field, including Eck, Fox
and Millett had shot ahead, and were leading alternately
at a good pace. In the paddy field by the Sandy Lane,
The Marquis made a mistake which let Red Deer come
up again, and the pair raced neck and neck up the lane
50 yards behind Eck, whose mount was going strong,
but his horse ran out a hundred yards before the last
jump, leaving Red Deer and Marquis to finish. The
latter, although the fresher of the pair, ran out, and before
he could be turned round. Red Deer had passed the
winning post the winner of the first Paperchase Cup. He
was a small horse, just over 14- 1, and the persevering way
in which his sporting owner brought him home after
losing so much ground at the water jump, was most
creditable. The gallery was not large, but the cheers that
greeted the winner were of the heartiest ; and so ended
the first Paperchase Cup.

1876.

The morning of the i6th February saw a goodly
company of spectators assembled to witness the struggle
for this trophy, as a wind up to a very successful paper-
chase season. Eight men faced the starter, who all meant
" §"o^"g^'" ^i^d, when the word was given, the pace was
a regular cracker led by Jolly Boy, who took the lead
from the start, and was never caught. The course com-
menced near the Sheep-pens, crossing the Red Road, the
paper leading over some natural bunds, and the remains
of an old artificial jump, round to the right across to the
mud wall, which all negotiated in fine style, one veteran
chaser taking the wing of the jump as the wall was not
big enough. Here there was a sharp turn through a
patch of jungle and gardens, to two hurdles some sixty
yards apart, then away to the left, with more natural jumps
down to a hurdle in a hollow. At this point Jolly Boy
had a commanding lead, and, as the others came up, there
were shouts from the Cavalry looking on '^ to put on the
steam." The next jump of any importance was the water,
which all got safely over, followed a little further on by

35

•a mud wall double. The course now laid over a portion
of the old steeplechase country of 1870-71 and the jumps
came fast and thick. Two small mud walls and one with
a ditch in front full of water had to be got over, but this
last obstacle unseated Mr. Bobstick, who now became
out of the hunt. A little later Duchess brought her
rider to grief, and at the next wall, the scene of the
Badger's disaster, the rider of Mariner had a narrow
-escape, but with a pair of strong arms and long spurs,
he righted himself again, and eventually passed the post
second, though a long way behind Jolly Boy, who
won easily. Duchess was third, and the Veteran on
Mare of Kent fourth. Mr. Bartlett's victory appeared
very popular, and no doubt the best horse won. It was
unfortunate that some others who had entered were unable
to start, but in my humble opinion the result would have
been the same. Jolly Boy sometimes has a playful trick
•of cannoning other horses at jumps, but on this occasion his
owner appeared determined there should be no complaints
on that score, as the result proved. Long may he live to
■drink out of his Cup w^hich, we understand, is to be sent
to the American Centennial Exhibition. I had almost
forgot to mention that the paper was carefully laid by two
old hands at the game, and the style in which they took
everything without a mistake, was the adrniration of those
who were fortunate enough to see them. The course was
probably rather over 2^ miles and the time of the winner
■9^ minutes.

" Ballie Papier."

1877.

In this year the Cup was won by Mr. G. W. F. Buck-
land, on Mignonette ; but the historian of the period gives
us no aid and we have only the bare record. Mr. Buck-
land was then a light weight, and a limb of the law, and
was by no means unknown in races between the flags
where he used to score a good many successes, especially
in the *'Sky" Races.

1878.

Saturday morning opened with rather a fog, which,
however, did not interfere with a capital chase for this

36

annual Cup. Never were more people seen at the meet, the
road being lined with carriages from Juggernath's Car
up to the finish, besides which, there was quite a host
of spectators on horseback. Mr. Gorge on Shamrock
and Mr. Latham on Weaver, laid the paper, negotiating
the course in finished style, and when they were let go, a
field of ten were soon in hot pursuit. The lead was at
first taken by Mr. Cheetham, whose horse, however, could
not last the distance. The race presented the changing
features usual to every race, a description of which in detail
lacks interest on paper, though they are absorbing when
viewed through the medium of a good pair of binoculars.
We content ourselves, therefore, with a description of the
finish, Avhich is best told by the following brief sentence,
applicable alike to this and the races for the Paperchase
Cups for the past two years. Captain Muir on Warwick-
shire Lad I facile princeps. So we suppose it will go
on for all time, when the combination enter the arena, but
we noticed that the "Invincible Pair " that have for so
long dwelt in happy and successful union are about to
separate ; a decree of divorce from saddle and stable having
gone forth.

Nobody, I am sure, will deny that the feat performed
by Captain Muir of winning this Cup for three successive
years, on the same horse, in such a sporting community
as that of Calcutta, is one of which he may well be proud.

However, in glorifying his powers we must not forget
our other horses, and here record for the benefit of all
whom it may concern that Captain Egan on Gang
Warily was a good second, Mr. Harrison on Marshall
third, Mr. Barnes on Beeswing fourth, and Mr. Macnair
on I Want It fifth, the rest dropping in later, except
one gentleman Avho was swept off his horse into spa:ce by
the branch of a stray bamboo.

So ended a capital Paperchase Season, and with a
hearty vote of thanks to the indefatigable Secretary,
Mr. Latham, we wish the Club farewell for this, and as
good sport for the next season as that just concluded.

188L

The growing interest taken by the good people of
Calcutta- in the Paperchases was amply illustrated by the

37

monster gallery that assembled in the depths of Ballygunge
yesterday morning to witness the usual contest for
decidedly the most sporting event of the season, the Paper-
chase Cup Race. The field this year was known to be
not only numerous but strong, and the entries being made
public, and the general lie of the course indicated, guaran-
teed those who took the trouble to go so far from town
against the possibility of disappointment. The Cup chase
is always more or less a gallery one, and this year it was
more than usually so, the onlookers with very little
trouble being able to see the followers at a number of
points on the journey. The road to the course presented
a very gay and animated appearance and the amount of
dust was a caution, yet everybody appeared determined
to make the best of things as they were, and I felt sure
I may say that no one who went out came back disappoin-
ted. The weather can no long^er be called cold, scarcelv
cuol even in the morning, and it was greatly to the credit
of the gentleman who wore Belatee Cuppra, a Terai hat,
and a stuck-up collar that he was able to put as pleasant a
face on it as he did. Talking of hats, there is a great
opening for all enterprising hatters at Ballygunge on
paperchase mornings. It seems to be de rigueitr now^ to
lose your hat and come home with your head done up in
a handkerchief.

Competitors for the Cup are of course the elite of
paperchasers, hence the funny business is necessarily elim-
inated from the Cup Day performance. This was the
case yesterday in an unusual degree, all the competing
men and horses being tried performers at the game and
past masters in the art of horsemanship. I w^as sorry
to see some good men standing down who would, had
circumstances permitted, have been only too eager to try
conclusions with the best horse and most finished horse-
man among the lot. I was glad to see Mr. Fred Buckland
again in the pigskin, and hope to see him ride a winner or
two on the 12th. There is not a " lep " race on the card
at present, but I should say that a Handicap Hurdle
Race for paperchase horses who have never won an
open race would elicit a large entry and result in a fine
race. The hurdles are all ready, and the only thing neces-
sary would be to pick up the landing sides of the fences*
I devote the idea as my subscription to the coming Sky
Races, and trust the Stewards thereof will see the propriety

38

of sending me a ticket by way of return. There are a
number of men who would be quite ready to enter and ride
their own nags over hurdles, if they were only sure they
would not meet cattle a little more than worthy of their
steel. Telegram and Oliver Twist no doubt kept
away a good many men from having a fly for the Cup ; but
you can scarcely expect an owner of good horses to go out
of his way to get one bad enough to meet the wishes of his
opponent. I should be intensely sorry did bad feeling and
squabbling spring up to mar the friendly aspect of our
favourite cold weather amusement, and it might be well to
have a more explicit set of Paperchasing Rules drawn
up. But to yesterday's chase.

The paper Avas carried by Mr. Latham on The
Weaver and Captain Muir on Shamrock, but I am free
to confess that their performance over a country was not as
faultless as I had expected, neither of the horses, — known
fencers, — jumping in their usual form.

Punctuality was fairly well observed, which was a for-
tunate thing, as the morning was uncommonly close, and
twenty minutes past seven saw the field starting on their
2^ mile journey. The pace, which was pretty stiff for
paperchasing all through, was first made by Mr. D'Arcy
on Escort, but he overran the paper on the Red Road,
and carried Telegram and others with him, leaving
Messrs. Mac and Collins to go on w^ith the lead ; when the
field hove in sight at the Sheep-pens Mr. Collins had a
decided lead, Nancy and Oliver Twist some lengths
behind. This order was maintained until Nancy persistent-
ly refused a bit of a hurdle any Polo Tat could clear, thus
putting what would have perhaps been about the most
popular win out of the question. Mr. Mac is one jof the
oldest and most consistent supporters of the chasse ait
papier^ and it is a pity to see his chance time after time
upset by the growing bad temper of his mount. Mr. D'Arcy
and Telegram lost verv little time in getting on terms
with the leaders, whom Mr. Edward on his grand little
mare Di Vernon had by this time joined ; in fact, after
half the distance had been travelled, the only horses actual-
ly in the hunt were the two thoroughbreds, " Commotion "
whose owner rode with his usual finish, and Mr. Edward's
mare. Oliver Twist may be quicker than the old
chestnut at racing weights, but Telegram, who was
going well within himself till very near the last fence,.

Mr, Latham Hamilton.

was at a difference of 2 stone quite well able to stall off
Oliver's challenge, and although Lord William rode a
la Fordham, I'Anson and the Bounding Jockey combined,
the weight told on his mount and he was never able to
get on terms with Telegram, who won all out after a
magnificent race by a length, Di Vernon, who went
admirably throughout, a good third, Mr. Anderson on
Commotion fourth, Jack Spraggon fifth, and Mr. D'Arcy
sixth. Thus ended the best paperchase I have ever seen.

1882.

Never since Paperchasing Avas first started in the City
of Palaces, has the Paperchase Cup, which is of compara-
tively modern origin, come off with anything approaching
the eclat with which, from- a variety of causes, it was
yesterday invested. As I have already remarked in your
columns, the field, though numerically large, was more
even than has usually been the case, and this of itself
gave the chase a special interest as almost any horse that
started had a fair and square chance of winning that much
coveted trophy — The Cup.

The attendance was more than a bumper ; it was
something enormous, and open as the country was for the
finish, it was a matter of difficulty to get even standing
room within sight of the winning flag, while the Red
Road from the Gurriah Hat corner to the turn towards
Tollygunge was lined three deep with carriages of all
descriptions, from the lordly coach to the humble ticca.
Coaching by the way has quite taken a start, and the four
handsome teams out yesterday, lent quite a holiday aspect
to the gathering. Lord William was there with his hand-
some team of whole bays, Mr. Hilldah with a very blood
like black team, while ^' The Major " tooled a mixed team
of browns and chestnuts, which had never been together
before, and very well thev looked and went. There was a
perfect " Ladies Gallery" on Paikparah's coach which was
horsed with three very handsome greys and a black.

The number of spectators on horseback was as numer-
ous and varied as their different styles of horsemanship,
which were indeed truly marvellous, and set me wondering
why men who never cross a horse from one year's end to
another should on this solitary occasion consider it either

40

correct or comfortable to get out on wheels in wondrous
boots and breeches, and then abandoning their familiar
and commanding seat in buggy, dog-cart or barouche, for,
to many of them, a precarious perch on a slippery pigskin,
submit to be taken about at the sweet will of some raw-bone
waler or howling country-bred, over whose movements
they have about as much control as had Mr. Walter Powell
(poor man ! ) over the runaway balloon. I flattered myself
I could drive quietly out and see the chase safely and com-
fortably on foot, but my immunity from peril I soon found
was only fancied. They might have made some allowance
for ladies, Mr. Editor, don't you think? I saw the gallant
Colonel Fergus busy among them, and I heard he had
a pocket full of ribbons, and a bag of light weight 8-anna
bits to run in recruits. I wish him every luck, as a turn at
Mounted Infantry would do most of them a power of good.
But I must now get on to the Race. The paper was
carried by Mr. Lloyd on Shamrock, and Mr. Latham on
Foxhall ; the former jumping, as he always does, like a
bird. The following horses entered for the Cup, and with
the exception of one or two occasional pursuers who were
not qualified by the terms of the Cup to start, they certainly
were the pick of our paperchasers.

Mr. N. S. Watkins ... ... .- ... Rona.

Mr. Garben's .„ ... ... ..- Nelly.

Mr. Lawrence's ... ... ... -. Lowlander.

Mr P. D E.strian's ... ... ... ... Cmder.s.

Mr. E. W. Collin's ... ... ... ... Black Prince.

Mr. W. De Peel's ._ .... .«. Skipper.

Mr. V^. M. Beresford's ... ... ... St. Patrick.

Mr. O'Malley's ... ... ... ... Gipsy.

Mr. Alli's ... ... ... .. ... Telescope.

Mr. A. L. Paske's ... ... ... ... Anonyma,

Mr. T. S. Anderson's ... ... ••• Commissioner.

Mr Lauderdale's ... ... .. .• Ramorrice.

Lord VV. Beresford's ... .-• Mariner.

Major Cook's ... ... ... •.. Claret.

Mrs. Cook's ... ... ... ... Champion.

Mr. Gateacre's ... .. ... ... Cripple.

Mr. R. G. Carrie's ... ... ... ... Magpie.

Tiiere has been such a keen interest taken in the Cup
this year, that more than one sweep was got up on the
Race. Mariner, in virtue of his previous majority of wins,
was in most cases installed favourite, although Champion
and Claret, his stable companion, also found a host of
supporters. Mariner was very naturally supposed to be

4«

favoured by the well-known ability of his noble owner
across a country of any kind, but when next our crack lady
rider elects to try conclusions with the very best horsemen
we have, I fully^ believe that after her magnificent riding
this morning, her mount will carry the public confidence
and coin, i have never seen a finer piece of riding than
the finish for yesterday's Cup, never have we had such a
close thing within sight of home, and never was a race for
the Cup, which might have been so easily lost, so prettily
won ; but of this anon. Claret, despite his gallant
(Majors are always gallant, and this one is no exception)
owner's weight, was by many good judges considered the
best horse in the race. St. Patrick, despite the fact of his
being one of Mr. Macklin's latest shipment, was also a
good deal fancied, and, as the result showed, very rightly
so. Gipsy, Cinders, Black Prince, and Telescope, all
useful, safe horses, also met with a modicum of support ;
while the handsome little Ram's Hornie was a good deal
fancied by her stable. What she may be able to do we
must wait till next cold weather to see, as yesterday she
and her rider dissolved partnership almost before entering
on business at all. This is much to be regretted, as her
ow^ner was confident of success.

Nelly and Lowlander were absentees, the former being
very wisely reserved for the Chota Cup, and the latter
suffering, so his owner informed me after the Golf dinner
from '' staggers."

The foxes were allowed a wide margin, and it was
more than twenty minutes past seven when the eager
field was despatched on the momentous journey before
them.

The first obstacle encountered was a good solid mud
wall which was negotiated by the lot in great style. At
the next obstacle, a hurdle, Mr. Haidand Meriot's mare
pecked badly, unshipping her rider, whom subsequent
proceedings interested no more, the running being taken
up by Commissioner, who w^as not, however, ridden in
his owner's best style, and trying to cut it at the up jump
alongside of the gallery, he upset Mr. Peel's good horse
Skipper and entirely lost him his chance — by no means
a bad one— of the race. On an occasion like the Cup day,
surely the least the rider of a doubtful jumper can do is to
accept instead of trying to give a lead, and much sympathy
was expressed for Mr. Peel's unlucky mishap. Over the

42

next fence Mr. Mountflummery led with Mrs. C. in attend-
ance, Lord William, the Major and Archer lying handy,
and in this order they negotiated the water jump, where
Commissioner came a complicated cropper at a rather
formidable double. From this point the running was taken
up by Mr. Sniktaw, whose mare showed she possessed a
wonderful turn of speed. Her temper is, however, by na
means, her strong point, and after leading the field for ^
of a mile at a strong pace, she resented her rider's attempt
to make it hotter by kicking him clean over her head.
Mr. Sniktaw's ideas of things in general were a bit mixed
for half an hour or so, but he was soon himself ao^ain and
able to ride home. Lord William was now at the head of
affairs, Mrs. C. waiting on him, Mr. Mountflummery, the
Major and Mr. P. D'Estrian next. Black Prince, Gipsy^
and the Cripple some distance behind.

The straight run in was very properly a long one, and,
although I could not make out the exact relative position
of all the horses, I could see that a riding habit and the
'' Waterford caubeen " were Avell to the front. Half way
home Mr. Mountflummery brought up St. Patrick, and
Cinders looked very like going to the head of aff^airs, but
the pace was too hot for him, and he speedily died away.
Mariner too showed signs of having had enough, and
despite Lord William's fine riding, lost a lot of ground,
making way for Claret, who was gradually closing the gap
between himself and the leaders of the hunt. At the last
fence but one, St. Patrick swerved from distress, but, being
quickly straightened, he came on again, and was soon on
even terms with Champion. A well-timed reminder con-
veyed through the medium of a riding whip soon sent the
speedy chestnut into his bridle, and it was, so far as one
could see, going to be a ding-dong race for every inch, and
so it proved, both horses rising at the last hurdle together.
St. Patrick was, however, beat, his hastily acquired condi-
tion being unequal to such a strain, and, rising only half
high enough to the hurdle, he came down a buster.
Champion flew the fence in magnificent form at a pace
w^e have never seen equalled on Cup day before, and
despite the brilliant finish of the Major and Lord William,
who were both hard at it, the Mem Sahib won the Paper-
chase Cup of 1882, amidst the longest and loudest cheer-
ing Bally gunge has ever heard. Major Cook a good
second, Lord William third.

The Chota Paperchase Cup which was run for
yesterday morning resulted in a pretty close finish between
Red Gauntlet and Gill, of which the former had a good bit
the best at the finish, the rest nowhere. Regarding the
proceedings of the other competitors the kindest thing I can
do is to draw the veil of silence. If this year may be taken
as any criterion, a Chota Paperchase Cup for " Asiatics "
is a mistake.

1883.

Let us hang up our spurs and whips and weep, for the
paperchasing season has passed away, and the hot weather
is upon us. No less than sixteen times have the worthy
peasantry of Ballygunge been disturbed in their rural
pursuits, by a long stream of frantic horsemen galloping
wildly through their peaceful haunts, while the well-known
sight of a mud-bespattered sportsman, limping painfully
homewards, made them ponder in their gentle minds on
the eccentric notions of enjoyment entertained by the
sahib log. We are sure everybody is very grateful to the
Honorary Secretary for the trouble he has taken. We
never remember courses to have been so well laid out or
fences better made. When Mr. Latham went home, it was
rumoured that the paperchases would deteriorate. Rumour
luckily proved a false prophet, and under the new manage-
ment we have enjoyed as good, if not better, sport than
the most sanguine anticipated.

We had whispered softly in our servant's ear on
Friday night : — " When you're waking, call me early, call
me early, bearer dear." His idea of earliness turned out
to be the middle of the night. These little errors on his
part do not now anger us, they used to, as being an
intelligent native, we think that under the proposed new
regulation he stands a capital chance of a judgeship. We
also treat our punkha-wallahs with great gentleness, as
the thought has struck us that though at present we may
rebuke them for their tardiness in agitating the punka
rope, they may shortly be in a position to agitate us at the
end of a very difterent sort of rope. We therefore now
talk to each other like dear brothers. [This was written in
the time of the Ilbert Bill. Ed.\

The sights that met us on the road to Ballygunge
were very interesting. Every available vehicle appeared

44

to have been brought out for the occasion, from the evenly
hung barouche of the rich merchant to the rattling bone
shaker of the worthy Baboo, while the number of persons
ridiBg was a caution. Men whom we had always thought
too timid to be conveyed in anything more dangerous than
a humble but useful ticca-gharry now appeared to have
cast prudence to the winds, and, arrayed in breeches and
boots of an ancient order, boldly rode forth, on fearful and
wonderful looking mokes, who took them where they
pleased, greatly to the discomfort, not to say danger, of
the foot passengers. The rain of Friday night made the
weather charming, and we almost imagined ourselves
back in January. The start took place just beyond the
Juggernath Car, but owing to the late arrival of one of the
horses, proceedings did not commence until nearly half an
hour after the advertised time. The paper was carried by
Captain Muir and Mr. Hamilton mounted on Jack and
Rocket. Both animals fenced splendidly.
The following were the starters : —

Mrs. Cook's ... ... ... ... Saunteress.

Major Cook's ... ... .. Zil.

Mr. Irwin's .. ... ... ... Star.

lord W. beresford's ... ... ... Premier.

Mr. W. W. Petrie's ... ... ... SUipper.

Mr. S. A. Apcar's ... .. ... Spec.

Ml. Petrocochino's ... ... ... Telescope.

Captain Haines' ... ... ... Manchester.

Mr. 'P. S. Anderson's ... ... ... Coniniissioner,

Mr. R. G. Carrie's ... ... ... Magpie.

Mr. Toiigall's ... ... ... I-!lackwater.

Mr. Kilburn's ... ... ... Red Knight.

Mr, Lavvrie's ... ... ... ... Pilgrim.

Mr. Probyn's , . ... ... ... Grenadier.

Mr. Walker's ... .. ... ... Cinders.

As far as condition went. Premier, Manchester, Saun-
teress, and Pilgrim, were the pick of the lot, Blackwater and
Red Knight looked short of work, while Zil and Skipper
were bags of bones.

At the call of time Blackwater dashed off with the
lead over a low wall and a hurdle. The course now
went in full view of the gallery, the jumps being a big
ditch in front of a wall and a hurdle with a drop just
beyond. Blackwater here had a long lead with Saunteress,
Premier, and Red Knight behind. The field now wound
round to the right, the going being rather heavy. The
next jumps were a hurdle, a wall, and the double, all the

45

horses fencing admirably. After negotiating these leps, we
turned to the left, and up the road for a short distance.
Saunteress about these parts slipped up and destroyed what
appeared a very good chance, Star followed her example,
and Mr. Irwin rolled out of reach of his legs with a celerity
that showed he had not forgotten the rap he got in the
first chase. We now went through some open ground
with tanks on each side, the water jump being taken by
all without a mistake, though some of the riders landed
well on their horses' necks. The going now was very good,
and Blackwater was still leading the field at a strong pace.
A big mud wall here proved disastrous to Mr. Currie ; his
mount jumped very big, but his owner was in such a hurry
to reach terra jirma that he dismounted in the air. We
now turned our heads towards home, and Premier rushed
up to the leaders. The Tougall's face now showed great
anxiety, as he boldly spurred his gallant black over the
next two jumps, after which he pulled back as his mount
was done. The last wall now appeared, and Premier led
over it by about a length. He, however, was tiring fast,
and Skipper and Pilgrim gained rapidly upon him. The
welcome red flags now appear, and Premier and Skipper
rose at the last hurdle together. Mr. Petrie now appeared
to have the race at his mercy. The Irish Lord, however,
was not to be done, and, applying his shillelagh with
whacks that might have been heard at Government House,
he shot Premier to the front and won a magnificent race
all out by three quarters of a length, Pilgrim close up
third, and if her young owner had only come sooner,
he must have nearly secured the coveted trophy. Red
Knight was fourth, Manchester fifth, Zil and Cinders
next. Much regret was expressed at the Mem Sahib's
misfortune, as, at the time of her fall, Saunteress was
going so strong and well that it appeared as if the popular
win of last year was about to be repeated.

1884.

"' Let those now ride who never rode before.
' • And those who always rode row ride the more."'

The contest for the Cup which took place yesterday
brought to a close what has, undoubtedly, been one of
the best paperchasing seasons we have ever witnessed. In

46

former years if a man was mounted on a sure jumper, he
was pretty certain to be well up at the finish, but now a
change has come over the state of affairs, and it requires
a very fast horse to live with the flyers who compose the
foremost division in these chases. Many of the horses
who have been running this season knew very little about
jumping when they arrived in this country, but with a
little practice Walers soon pick up the art, and owners
cannot complain that they have no opportunity of school-
ing their nags, as that popular and obliging sportsman,
Dr. Morgan, is always glad to see any one on Sundays
during the rains at his well-constructed jumping course,
Ballygunge, and is also ready to let any horse have a
trial over his fences whose owner may wish it ; some of
the finest fencers in India have received their education in
this school, and an owner may be sure that if a horse can
successfully negotiate the stiff obstacles placed here to
test his abilities, he will have no difficulty in getting over
any steeplechase or paperchase course in India. It must
be very gratifying to Dr. Morgan to find that this
idea of his educating horses has turned out such a com-
plete success.

The weather, yesterday morning, was very pleasant,
being much cooler than what we have lately experienced.
The main road at about a quarter to seven presented a
very lively aspect, there being a numerous throng of
vehicles proceeding in the direction of the Jodhpore
Thannah, to say nothing of a motley collection of horse-
men, amongst whom we noticed many who apparently had
not ridden for many a long day. However, they appeared
to thoroughly enjoy their unwonted exertions, as clad in
curious and wonderful garments, and mounted generally
on fearful mokes, they pounded gaily along, colliding with
everything and everybody they could possibily get near
in the most impartial manner. The number of spectators
was greater than we have ever seen at the Cup Chase, the
ladies especially appearing in great force, and their
appreciation of the fun was amply demonstrated by the
game way in which they tramped bravely through
ploughed fields, in order to catch glimpses of the field
as it swept by on its exciting journey. The course
was undoubtedly the best of the many good courses
we have had this year, the going was good, and the
jumps stiff without being dangerous. The Calcutta

..TheTougaU"(M^-t-C.McLecd)onJacU.

47

M IS

. Cook's

Mr.

T. S. Anderson's

Mr.

S. A. A pear's

Mr.

W. M. Beresfoid's

Mr.

A. \\ G. Gough's

Mr.

H. Ilelyar's

Mr.

W. D. Kilburn's

Mr.

E. C. Apostolides Lazzaretto's

Mr.

C. D. Learoyd's

Mr.

Lawries

Mr.

D. B. Myer's

Mr.

K. Murray's

Mr.

A. T. Rawlinson's

Mr.

P Sandiland's

Mr.

L. Walker's

Mr.

G. W. Walker's

public are greatly indebted to Messrs. Carlisle, Perman,
Walker, and several other gentlemen, who by the trouble
they have taken in making- courses have offered so much
sport during the past season.

The paper was carried by Mr. Perman and
Mr. Latham, the start taking place to the left of the road
just bevond the Jodhpore Thannah.

The following were the entries for the Cup : —

... Hlack Pearl.

Coi^iinissioner.

Tiimnourine.

Godfrey.

Jim.
... Gladys,

Red Knight.

Sappho.

Handicap.

Pilgrim.
... Zulu.
... Zil.

Coronation.

Jimmy.
... Othello.

Squire.

Time was kept by Major Cook in his usual precise
way, and after getting the competitors into line, he
despatched them to a capital start. Red Knight, Godfrey,
and Pilgrim led over the first hurdle, and then over two
ditches, and on to a big mud wall with a ditch in front of
it. After clearing this obstacle, the paper lay to the right
over a hurdle and across the road. Pilgrim, Zulu, Zil,
and Handicap were now leading, with Black Pearl,
Godfrey, Jim, and the Squire next. The leading division
raised the dust so much on the road that the drop ditch
just beyond it disappeared from view ; the consequence
was that Godfrey, Jim. and the Squire all rolled together
on their backs, their riders luckily escaping without broken
bones. Jim bolted and left Mr. Gough standing with a
stirrup leather in one hand and broken bridle in the other.
Mr. Beresford's saddle was broken in the scrimmage, and
he was seen looking very much like a mud lark, leading
his horse homewards. Mr. Walker managed to continue
the journey, but could never make up the ground he had
lost. After crossing the road, the field was led by Zil over
a double. Zulu, Handicap, and Pilgrim lying close up.
The paper now lay over a hurdle and into the open bund-

48

country, straight away, for about ^ mile over a mud walU
a hurdle, a big bank, another hurdle and mud wall, and
into the jungle on the right. Zil, Zulu, Handicap now had
a o-ood lead, while Commissioner began to forge to the
front, and Black Pearl and Coronation held out signs of
distress. On leaving the jungle the course went over
some rough ground and then curved round in the direction
of the Thannah with a straight run in over a mud wall
and two hurdles. Zulu and Handicap now raced up to
Zil, who shut up like a telescope, and the other two took
the mud wall almost together. Zulu now appeared to
have slightly the best of it, but Handicap caught him at
the last jump, and they raced past the winning post
locked together, the Judge's verdict being a dead heat.
Commissioner was third, Red Knight fourth, Sappho fifth.

1885.

Yesterday (Thursday) morning broke with a dense fog
over all things at Ballygunge, and up to 8 o'clock, it
seemed probable that the race for the Cup would have to be
postponed. At the hour, however, the fog suddenly lifted
and the hares, Messrs. Latham and Walker, after three or
four most determined refusals at the first wall, started on
their journey. The Viceroy and Lady Dufferin were un-
able to be present, but the gallery was one that must have
exceeded all expectations. We cannot say that the race
was an unalloyed success. Four or five of the first flight,
including the favourites, missed one of the jumps, and were
disqualified. The Cup in consequence went to Pilgrim,
who was first in of the batch that went the whole course.
The contretemps was a pity, for Pilgrim was going so strong
and well at the finish, and but for the mistake we should
probably have seen a good race for first place.

Thirteen started, Mr. Apcar's Tambourine, Mr. Mur-
ray's Zil, Mr. Anderson's Commissioner, Mr. Myer's Zulu,
Mr. Buder's Rabbit, Mr. Apostolides' Sappho, Mr. Nairn's
Red Gauntlet, Captain Burn's Tanderook, Mr. Alston's Pil-
grim, Mr. Evelyn's Black Ace, Mr. Dunne's Peggy, Mr.
Petersen's Scandinavia, and Mn Johnstone's Master
McGrath. Tambourine was decidedly the favourite, and
justified the confidence placed in him by winning pretty
easily from Zulu, with Captain Burn third, and; Mr.

r

V":

-TM-

<^'

l>^

^f"

^

Paperchase Dinner Menu, 1892.

49

Apostolides fourth. As however, the whole of the leading-
division had missed one of the jumps, honours fell, as we
have said, to Pilgrim. Mr. Murray on Zil was second and
Mr. Anderson on Commissioner third, Mr. Johnstone's situ-
ation of tenth was transformed into fourth, Mr. Dunne fifth
owing to the mishap ; spills were numerous ; Mr. Stanley,
Mr. Butler, and Mr. Nairn succeeded in parting company
with their mounts ; Scandinavia caused some excitement
by careering wildly amongst the spectators ; and as coats
had been discarded, owing to the heat, and the course led
through some thick jungle, there was a good deal of torn
linen floating on the breeze at the finish. This event
brings to a close the Paperchase Season of 1884-85.

An informal meeting of the subscribers to the paper-
chase fund was held at the Old Race Stand yesterday
morning, to consider the terms upon which the Paper-
chase Cup should be competed for next season.

The attendance was small. The proposal which found
most favour was, that, in order to give the welter weights
a chance, two Cups should be given, one for catch weights
over lost, ylbs., and the other for catch weierhts over i^
stone, other conditions to be the same as this year.

The winner of the Cup in 1882 has generously offered
to give a Cup to the rider who comes in first on the same
horse oftenest during the season, and the offer, we need
hardly say, was accepted with many thanks to the donor.
[There is no record of this Cup having been competed
for. It was however the original Average Cup — a trophy
that came into existence at a later period. Eci.\ Pros-
pects for next season, look bad, as a branch line from
the Port Canning Railway to the New Docks is to be
constructed through the best of the country.

1886

The Paperchase Cup run on Saturday was won by
Mr. Butler's b. w. g. Rabbit, Mr. R. Murray's Zil second,
Mr. C. Richardson's Crinolette third.

1887.

The result for the Cup is disputed, the decision lying-
between Cocktail and Commissioner. With the Cup the

B, CPR

50

season is now a thing of the past. Though the season was
late in starting there have been no less than twelve meets,
and the average number of starters shows that paperchas-
ing is in no danger of dying out in Calcutta just yet. A
few new riders have come to the front, but the class of
the horses is not quite so good as it used to be, probably
owing, not to the depreciation in horse flesh, but to the
vagaries of the fickle rupee. The gallery yesterday morn-
ing was quite as large as we have ever seen it. The
road was crowded with vehicles of every description from
four-in-hand teams to single horse ticca gharries.
The following is a list of the starters : —

Mrs. Sanders' ... ... ... Footlights.

Lord W, Beresford's ... ... ... Tortoise.

Mr. Acworth's ... ... ... Blackstone.

Mr. Anderson's ., ... ... Commissioner.

Mr. Apostolides' .. ... ... Cocktail.

Mr. Douglas' ... .. ... Pygmalion.

Mr. Euler's .. ... ... Shamrock.

Mr. Gerlich's ... ... ... Grane.

Mr. Gregory's .„ ... ... Sterling.

Mr Orrell's ... .- .. Toby.

Mr. Petrie's ... ... ... Beeswing.

Capt. Worlledge's ... ... ... Black Prince.

The course started with a hurdle on the high ground
on the left of Jodhpore Thannah and wound round by the
railway line over the mud wall and bank across the Station
Road to another mud wall in front of a ditch, then over a
hurdle to the Gurriah Hat Road. Turning to the leftover
two mud walls, it took a straight cut towards the '' Bunds,"
but turned again sharp to the left through a village and
wound out by the Tollygunge Garden, coming back over
the high ground, where three ditches were crossed,- then
over two of the " Bund " jumps and back over the high
ground to the right of the tank down the low ground to
the Gurriah Hat Road opposite the station, and finally
finished over a hurdle close to the start. The going was
fairly good throughout, although the dust greatly inter-
fered with the riders in following the paper, and they were
all very much dependent on the eyesight of the leaders.
Mr. J. R. Thomas kindly officiated as Judge with the
help of Mr. Walker.

Punctually at 7-15 the paper w^as started by Messrs.
Walker and the Tougall, mounted on Malta and Red
Rover. Both horses fenced splendidly. With regard to

51

some remarks made that the scarcity of paper accounted
for the horses missing the course, we are asked to state
that such was not the case as the scent was laid plentifully
and with extra care.

Twelve minutes' grace having been granted, Mr.
Thomas despatched them precisely at 7-27 to a perfect
start. Shamrock gave the gallery a treat in jumping the
first two mud walls in the grand style followed by Toby
and Sterling. A big 'Mep " by Pygmalion very nearly
put Mr. Douglas out of the chase, but he found his way
back into the pigskin in time to negotiate the second one.
Crossing the Gurriah Hat Road the leaders were unchancr-
•ed, Shamrock and Toby alternately leading at a strong
pace, with Sterling and Tortoise close behind. After
passing through the village lane to the left, the leaders lost
the paper and galloped on, picking it up further on in
the wrong place, and raced home under a wrong impres-
sion. Shamrock was the first to come in sight, followed
by Tortoise and Toby who passed him in turn before
getting to the last hurdle. Tortoise was under the whip
most of the way back and came in first past the post by a
head in front of Toby, who was half a length in front of
Shamrock. Then came poor Sterling who jumped the
last hurdle on three legs having slipped his stifle joint
shortly before. Pygmalion brought up the rear of the
first division.

After a considerable interval Cocktail appeared
followed by Commissioner and Beeswing. It appears
that Cocktail also missed a portion of the course, and if
'this turns out to be the case, Commissioner will, in all
probability, get the Cup. The matter is, however, not
quite settled. The last of the field came in after Beeswing
in the following order : — Blackstone, Footlights, Black
Prince and Grane. We much regret to add that poor
Sterling fell down and died while being led away, and
Mr. Gregory has our sincere sympathy.

This brings the season to an end, and the gentle
Ballygunge peasant will have peace for the next nine
months to come. No riderless horses or mud bespattered
sportsmen to disturb him in his rural pursuits, and make
him wonder at the eccentricities of the sahib log. We
might add, no more hiicksheesh for spoiling his already
over-plucked pea fields, but we will leave" that to next
year.

52

A meeting was held at the Old Race Stand on Satur-
day morning at 7 A.M. to discuss the question as to \vho>
was entitled to the Cup. Among those present were Lord
William Beresford, Messrs. Walker, Petrie, Apostolides,
Douglas, Currie, Sinclair, Orrell, Acuorth, McLeod,
Gregory, Thompson, and a few others.

The different reports having been fully discussed, it
was found that Mr. T. S. Anderson on Commissioner was
the only starter who completed the course, and it was
unanimously agreed that he was fairly entitled to the Cup,
a decision which will, no doubt, meet with the approval of
the entire paperchasing community.

It is universally acknowledged that the paperchases
this season have been an unqualified success and the
warmest thanks of the sporting fraternity are due to
Messrs. McLeod and Walker for their untiring efforts in
brinofinof about this result.

1888.

Another season has come and gone, and yesterday
morning saw the end of these popular meets. That the
meets have been unusually successful is beyond doubt, for
notwithstanding counter-attractions the fields have been
above last year's average, while spectators on each occasion
found their way to the start in larger numbers than usual.
Accidents have been almost nil, which is satisfactory to-
record. This, I am inclined to think, is greatly due to the
fact that the mud walls have been more formidable than in
previous years, both in height and solidity. There have
been fourteen chases altogether, including yesterday_morn-
ing's chase.

Additional interest attached itself to the result of indi-
vidual chases this season on account of the " Average Cup "
presented by the sportsman who will not allow me to
disclose his name. 1 wish we had a lot more of such
sportsmen. The handsome trophy was won by Mr.
Butler on Badminton who came in first in nine out of the
fourteen, a very creditable performance for horse and
rider.

[This, as noted in the chapter on the Average Cup,
was the origin of this contest as no Cup was apparently
run for prior to this. Ed.\

To return to yesterday morning's meet. Long before
the appointed hour the road to Jodhpore was one string of
all sorts of conveyances from the Government House coach
down to the useful ticca. Her Excellency the Countess of
E)ufferin and suite, as also a party from Belvedere were
present.

The course started on the low ground to the left of
the Jodhpore Thannah. The first '' lep " was a hurdle in
the open, then it went on to a mud wall winding round by
the tank to the two ^//cc^ jumps by the railway. Crossing
the Station Road it went down towards the Gurriah Hat
Road where another hurdle was placed, then straight out
to the " Bund " country over the usual mud walls there.
Turning round through a village the course skirted the
Tollygunge Gardens and finally sighted the Gurriah Hat
Road again, alongside of which was placed a very nice
water jump. A little in and out winding and the road was
crossed again, and the line continued close up to the station
where the last corner was rounded, and the flags placed
alongside the Station Road under the bamboos. The
ground was in excellent condition from the recent rains,
and the going throughout was all that could be desired.
There were 22 jumps in all.

The followmg were the entries : —

Mrs. Murray's ... ... ••• Maud.

Mr. Murray's ... ... -. ... Zil.

Lord William Beresford's ... , .. , Diamond.

Mr- Fuller's ... ... ... Shamrock.

Mr. Gauhe's ... ... ... ... Fatzke.

Mr. Anderson's ... ... Great .Scot.

Mr. Acworth's ... ... ... Blackstone.

Mr. Edward's ... ... ... ... Job Trotter.

Mr. Verschoyle s ... ... - . The Snob.

Mr. Butler's . ... ••. Badminton.

Mr. Barnes's ... ... ... •-• Mustella.

All of these came to the starting post. The horses
looked fit enouo^h takino^ them all round and were a better
class than last year's starters.

The hares, Messrs. Walker and The Tougall, were early
at their work, and mounted on Malta and Jack started with
the paper shortly after 6-30 laying a careful scent from start
to finish. At seven minutes past seven o'clock the race was
started. Mustella was taken to the front at once and took
them along at a good pace to the railway jumps, where
the gallery had assembled in force. The whole field took

54

these jumps in undeniable style. Job Trotter, Badminton^
and Diamond clearing- fully a foot above the jumps. The
leaders overshot the paper after passing these jumps, but
soon found out their mistake and turned sharp round to the
left without losing much ground. Badminton, who was
lying back, gained a lot here, and led for a little till The
Snob came up and went on with the lead to the " bunds.""
Here Diamond came up and the pace increased to racing
point till the close jungle through the village made them
slow down. Returning homewards Badminton came to the
front with Shamrock running up at intervals. The water
jump was taken by Diamond and Badminton together, and
a little further on the field was in a lump. Lord William
was first out of the " Toddy Shop," and shot across the road
followed by Badminton, Job Trotter, and Great Scot.
Coming round the last corner Diamond held a lead of fully
fifty yards, and although Badminton came within a length
of him near the finish, he won rather easily by about two
lengths, Job Trotter and Great Scot third, and fourth. The
Snob fifth, and the rest close up. Thus ended the Paper-
chase Season of 1887-88.

1889.

" And some for their country and their Queen
Would fight, if the chance they had,
Good sooth, 'twere a sorry world, I ween,
If we all went galloping mad ;
Yet if once we efface the joys of the chase
From the land, and outroot the stud,
Goodbye to the Anglo-Saxon Race !
Farewell to the Norman blood ! "

One of the most successful paperchasing seasons came
to an end yesterday, when the Cup was run for. The
going throughout the chases has been excellent, the jumps
carefully built, and much fewer casualties have occurred
than usual. There have of course been many falls, but in
no instance have the results to man or beast, been of a
serious nature, although several old hands at paper-
chasing have not appeared prominently during the season,
the fields have nearly always been good, and as so many
beginners at the game have appeared and have ridden in
good style, it is not likely that paper-hunting will deterio-
rate in the future. Heads of houses are beginning ta

55

recognise that paperchasing- improves their assistants'"
minds as well as bodies and broken Hmbs are the excep-
tion not the rule. Accidents may occur in the same way
as they occur at Cricket and Football ; but

*' No game was ever yet worth a rap
For a rational man to play —
Into which no accident, no mishap
Could fairly find its way. "

The weather yesterday morning was cooler than we
ever remember iton a Paperchase Cup Day. As a rule, by
this time of year the heat is ghastly. At an early hour
traps of every description, from the Government House
drag to the humble but useful ticca might have been
seen making their way towards the Jodhpore Thannah.
The Gurriah Hat Road w^as crowded with equestrians,
many mounted on animals evidently pulled out for the
occasion. A few, very few, pedestrians tried their stamina
and strength of their shoe leather by footing it. Arrived
at the Thannah, we found that the first jump was situated
on the left hand side of the road in full view of the gallery.
The paper w^as excellently laid by Mr. Walker on the
Squire and Mr. Perman on Little Lady. The going was
good but very dusty, which proved unpleasant to the
hindmost division, who could not very well, in several
instances, get a clear view of the jumps. The following
were the entries for the Cup, all of whom we believe
started : —

" Light Weights. "

Mrs. Murray on Maud, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone^
Mr. Alston on Beacon, Mr. Apostolides on Gazelle, Mr.
Campbell on Norseman, Mr. Gauhe on Fatzke, Mr.
Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Murray on Rocket, Captain
Turner on Britomarte, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob.

'^ Heavies."

Mr. Adye on Her Ladyship, Mr. Cartwright on
Dunavon, Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Mr. Henry on Trea-
son, Mr. Gerlich on Mozel, Mr. Mitchell Innes on NelU
Mr. McLeod on Lola, Mr. Shaw on Marigrold.

Treason got spiked early in the chase, and had to be
pulled up.

The paper was despatched sharp at 7 a.m., and
eighteen minutes later the well-known warning was given

5<5

out by a flute-like voice, " two minutes more gentleman. "
By the manner feet were thrust home in the stirrups and
hats jammed tight it was evident "If ever they meant
it they meant it to-day," and at the word "time" the
field jumped off together, and cleared the first hurdle
in a cluster. The paper led to the Station Lane and on
to the left. On arriving at the lane Blackstone, Maud,
Lola, Fatzke, Britomarte and several others turned to
the right instead of the left, which lost them a lot of
ground. The remainder went on to the second jump
over which Beacon led closely followed by Nell,
Shamrock and Norseman, Marigold hit the jumps
hard, but managed to recover herself. Keeping the
Railway on the left the course lay towards the Jodhpore
Thannah, Beacon still leading while Fatzke, Britomarte,
Lola and Maud were rapidly making up their lost
ground. Leaving the station behind, the paper led
across the Gurriah Hat Road over a beautiful bit of
open country in a westerly direction through a narrow
jungle and on to the open high ground south of Tolly gunge
Gardens. The first lot consisting of Norseman, Fatzke,
Britomarte, Beacon, and Shamrock were now all close
together, followed by Maud, Job Trotter, Rocket and Black-
stone. Skirting the gardens they went over a mile of open
going through the jungle south of the bund, and on in a
direction which looked as if the finish was not far off".
The pace was now very fast, and many horses were hitting
the jumps in the most impartial manner; Shamrock, Beacon,
Norseman, and Britomarte at the time were going the best.
A well-known bit of jungle now appeared with a narrow
lane through it only wide enough for one horse at a time.
Getting first into the lane meant a lot, and Britomarte and
Beacon raced for the leadership, the rider of the former
singing gaily

" Through the jungle lane could I make one dart
I could baffle them all upon Britomarle "

Beacon, however, managed to nip in first and went
ahead at a strong pace. On emerging from the jungle the
paper led home through the brick kilns, and the finish
was found to be about three furlongs distant over two
hurdles. Beacon was now leading by several lengths and
going easily. At the second hurdle from home, Britomarte
on whom Mr. Turner was doing his utmost, began to

57

creep up, and getting on terms with the leader at the
last hurdle, they raced home together, Mr. Turner on
Britomarte finally winning the Paperchase Cup for 1888-89
by two lengths. Mr. Euler on Shamrock was third, thus
securing the Heavy Weight Cup presented by Lord
William Beresford. Mr. Campbell on Norseman and Mr.
Coward on Job Trotter were close up fourth and fifth
respectively. The Average Cup has been won by Mr.
Acworth on Blackstone, who has ridden in the most
consistent manner, 'and has been in the first six in almost
every chase.

Britomarte, the winner of the Cup, is a bay Australian
mare under 15 hands and shows a lot of blood. She is a
very clean jumper, and is as clever as a cat. From the
manner in which she won yesterday it is evident she can
stay better than most of her bigger rivals.

1890.

Go-o-ne away ! Hark forrard to him my beauties !
Yes, I'm afraid it's the case, and all we're got to do is to
^'hark forrard" to next November at the best pace we
can ! Instead of being, as they usually are, the prelude
to a clinking burst over the open, these words now are the
farewell to the grand runs which we have all been enjoy-
ing for the past three months. We all feel a bit sad at
the end of the season, for paperchasing and hunting bind
men together in a way that no other sport under the sun
does. There is a sort of good fellowship created, and a
man w-ho is a straight and plucky rider, and who never
shirks or funks his fences, be they ever so big, is always
sure of a hearty welcome, both in the hunting field and in
our paperchase field here in Calcutta. The Cup yesterday
morning was as well patronised as these functions always
have been.

The carriage people and the rest of the gallery took up
their position at the finish, which was situated on the Bally-
gunge Red Road opposite the first railway crossing. The
field of starters was rather smaller this year owing to
one or two unavoidable circumstances, as, for instance, Jim
Turner's loss of '' Weeks, " both Mr. Butler's mares' acci-
dents, Mr. Prophit's and Mr. V^rschoyle's absence, Lord
William's horse not starting, etc., etc. There were two

58

Cups to be run for as usual, the Light-weight Cup for mert'
walking under iist. ylbs. and the Welter Cup for men.
w^alking over that weight, the latter being presented by^
last year's winner, Mr. Euler, who, I am sorry to say, has
not been out at all this season owing to his having been
broken into double harness ! The list is as follows : —

Light Weight.

I.

Mr

. Alston's

b aust.

g-

Beacon.

2.

Mr.

Coward's

... b. aust.

g-

Job Trotter.

3*

Mr.

West's

b. aust.

g-

Saxonbury.

4.

Mr.

Acworth's

b. aust.

g.

Laddie.

5-

Mr.

Rees'

... br. aust.

m.

Charity.

6.

Mr.

Ross'

... bk. aust.
Heavy Weight.

g-

I.

Mr.

J. M. Petrie's

... bk. aust.

g-

Collard and CoUard

2.

Mr

L. Walker's

bk. aust.

g

Othello.

The point of departure selected was the high ground
to the left front of Jodhpore Thannah, and after our
M. F. H. on good old Malta, and the Tougall on Bad-
minton had gone round with the scent the field got into
line, and after the " Old Man" had just looked them over
to see that all was right, he let them go to a nice even
start. The first obstacle to be negotiated was a flight of
hurdles, and these they all jumped without any trouble.
Mr. Alston now took Beacon to the head of affairs with
Charity, Job Trotter and a few more lying handy. Laddie
being about sixth. The course now went on to right over
the Gurriah Hat Road and skirting the raised field on the
right led over a wall. After jumping this they swung to-
the left down the lane and jumped the wall and drop on
their way. Charity hit this rather hard and landed on her
nose and finally rolled over. Mr. Rees escaped with a few^
scratches and was soon up again. Keeping to the lane and
following it to the right, the Bund country steeplechase
course came into view, and the following fences could be
seen in almost a bee line — a natural bund, a built up
bank, a mud wall, a bund built up into a biggish wall and
a flight of sticks.

As may be imagined with such a nice line of leps
in front of them, it was only natural the field quickened
up and raced over them ; the pace proving too hot for
old Job, he clouted one of the banks, and as the beastly
thing would not give sufficiently, tumbled head over heels.
I do not know which Mep ' it was and Mr. Go-ard could

ri

a,
■3

59

not tell me, as when he got up he saw about a million
mud walls all round him and about three thousand horses'"
hoofs, so I do not think it is quite easy to fix any one
fence in particular !

After jumping the last of the Bund country course
fences the line lay away to the right, heading back tow^ards
the Sandy Lane, and after rocketing over that brace of walls
we rode over some chases ago, and jumping another flight
of hurdles, they went for the old garden gates on the Sandy
Lane, and rattling through the jungle reached the open
country on the other side. Mr. Alston was still leading
with Laddie second, Saxonbury, Charity, Collard and
CoUard and the rest a bit behind. Jumping a bund and
a wall and bending right-handed, the course lay straight
for the railway crossing, and the two leading horses now
began to shove along in real earnest. As they crossed the
' metals, ' Mr. Alston had the best of it by about a couple
of lengths, but Laddie, who seemed as fresh as when he
started, gamely ansv/ering Mr. Acworth's call, went up ta
Beacon and they raced at a pace wonderful to behold over
the next fence, a flight of hurdles. They then disappeared
for a moment behind the small mound of earth which
acted as a grand stand for the gallery, and on coming inta
view^ again at the second last hurdle Laddie was seen in
front, and he held Beacon safe from there to tlie end of the
journey. The general feeling was sorrow that they could
not have both win, as Mr. Alston richly deserved it for
having cut out the work for tlie field the whole way round,
and Mr. Acworth for the plucky and determined way in
which he set to work to beat the champion horseman of the
Calcutta Hunt ! I was very glad to see Laddie win as he
is a very intimate friend of mine. Mr. Acworth told me
that before the start Laddie gave one of those funny little
squeals, and he knew that the little horse then really meant
to win or die in the attempt !

The next arrival after the first two was Mr. West on
Saxonbury. The first of the two w^elter weights to arrive
was Ballygunge Jim, w^ho finished his symphony on the
Grand Piano amidst the tumultuous acclamations of the
populace. The rest of the field all arrived without any
further accident to man or beast, and thus ended the Cup-
Chase.

The distance was about 2^^ miles, with about 15 fences.
*' Good-bye " is a nasty word to have to say even to ark

6o

•enemy, but so it must be until we all meet again at the
•covert side next season.

1891.

" For in his hunting hath he such delight
That it is all his joy and appetite."

Chaucer.

The "(Father of English Poetry" expressed our feelings
at the present moment in a way which I must say was
neat without being effusive ! " All our joy and appetite"
is now gone until next season ; perhaps, it is a rather good
thing for the heavy weights amongst us that the latter is
the case, as, by putting the muzzle on, they may next year
manage to ride lighter !

As I remarked last week, having to chronicle the last
of our cold weather fun is the very reverse of a pleasant
duty, and I really hardly know where and how to begin.

The weather always being a safe sort of topic to talk
about, I think it may be as well to let it come first in this
veracious narrative. After having been already once put
off by the rain, the race for the Cup looked as if it stood a
good chance of again being further postponed, as rain fell
pretty heavily on Monday evening, and gave promise of a
sticky and heavy ride on Tuesday.

As it turned out, however, the going was nothing like
as bad as was expected, and although it was heavv, it was
not sufficiently so to make galloping over fences either
dangerous or impracticable. Tuesday morning was a nice
clear one and fairly cool for the time of the year, and con-
sequently the turn-out was large. All sorts and conditions
of horsemen and riders, and coachmen and people, Avho sit
on coach boxes were there, as well as a good many on foot,

All the elite of Jodhpur Society were out, including
the Paperchase Mali and Mrs. Paperchase Mali, and their
large and handsome family of colts and fillies. Then there
was a strong and fashionable contingent from the police
station — I mean Jodhpur Thannah — headed by that fat and
oily looking native "peeler" who never seems to have
anything to do but sit in the front garden of the lock-up
and take in provisions ! Talking of policemen, it is with
the deepest sorrow that I have to record that that eminent
" Copper Samivil " of Howrah has deserted this part of

6i

the world and gone into the country to practise up for next
year's circus.

The following is the list of the starters : —

Light zveights (walking under list. 7lbs.)
Mr, Butler on Favorite.

Mr. Rees ,, Chnrit}'.

Mr. Colville ,, Eskdale.

Mr. Verschoyle ., Bannagher.

Heavy v'eighis (walkini; over i ist. 7lb?.)
Mr. Taylor on Slim Jim.

Mr. L. Walker ,, Sonapet.
Mr. Bachrach ,, Timp Timmer.

Mr. Shawe ., Marigold.

Mr. Pugli ,, Trumps.

The Squire and the Tougall, as is usual on occasions
like this, were up with the lark and had finished distrib-
uting the extra superfine cream laid long before even the
very earliest w^orm had arrived.

The point of departure on this auspicious occasion was
Jodhpur Station over a hurdle on the station side of the
Gurriah Hat Road. When they had had sufficient time to
get comfortably settled in their saddles, Ballygunge Jim
dropped the flag and despatched them on their way. The
Slim 'un went to the head of affairs, at once followed by
Charity, a Rees-onable distance behind and. Favorite, and
Trumps and Bannagher next, with the rest all convenient
and Eskdale whipping in. Thus they went over the road
and before reaching the jungle came over a small bund and
a wall which they all did in excellent style, bar Eskdale
who stopped. They went on through the jungle and came
in view of the bund country. The order I have oiven
above was maintained here. Cliarity perhaps drawino-
up a little closer. I noticed that this mare ran across
almost all these fences iii a rather disconcertino- way.
They then reached the Tollygunge lane, and turning
to the right about, they commenced their homeward
journey up the stretch of open running alongside the
Sandy Lane. A wall and a flight of hurdles gave none
of the field any trouble and they all then began to put
on the steam, as they came down to the next fence a real
live brook !

"No shallow dug pan with a hurdle to screen it.
That bare-faced imposture a steeple-chase brook,
But a wall and a ' Yawner ' tell all those that mean it
That the less they will like it the longer ihey look."

62

Slim Jim was over and away before you could say
scissors, and Charity came next, pecking a little as she
landed. Favorite and Sonapet followed and the rest all
got over without any mishap. They then swung round
the corner to the right over another mud wall, and after
that went left-handed, leading back for the Gurriah Hat
Road. A hurdle and a ditch on the high ground, and the
road was crossed, the pace was beginning to mend a bit ; up
to this, owing to the heavy going, it had been the reverse
of fast. Slim Jim was still leading with Favorite and
Charity close at his heels. Another flight of hurdles and
a bank was thrown behind them in elegant style, and they
then swung round the corner near the railway line into
that straight run in by Jodhpur Thannah. The Oriental
Bank and a flight of hurdles were the only detrimentals
now remaining, and as they came in sight of these, Favorite
looked to have the best of it, but Charity came with no
«nd of a wet sail, and caught the grey mare over the last
flight of sticks and romped in a winner by about a length.
Mr. Butler lost a lot of ground by going round behind
•Charity, after they had jumped the hurdles. He was on
her off side, and instead of sticking there, he pulled back
and then went up on her near side. We must all con-
gratulate the winner and sympathise with the loser.
Mr. Butler deserves to win after his bad luck last year, but
let us hope he will pull it off next season ! Slim Jim came
in third, and thus won the Heavy Weight Cup, Banna-
^her fourth, Sonapet fifth, and Trumps done to a turn sixth.
1 expect by this time you will all have got tired of reading
this long rigmarole, and so I think I will shut up and say
^ood-bye, or rather au revoir until next season.

1892.

One of the most popular events of the Calcutta
Season is undoubtedly the race for the Paperchase Cup.
Every one in the place turns out to see it, and the crowd
of spectators that swarmed down in the vicinity of Jodh-
pore Thannah on Saturday last showed that the fixture
had lost none of its interest for the inhabitants of the City
of Palaces.

From a comparatively early hour on Saturday morning
the Gurriah Hat Road was blocked with one continuous

63

Stream of carriages and equestrians, fair and otherwise,
the former showing up in a very large proportion. The
road was the worst part of the morning's proceedings, and
to turn out early and have one's chota hazri jolted down
into the heel of one's boots and one's eyes filled with nice
red dust, for which the road is famed, was far from being
pleasant.

Once on the other side of Jodhpore Thannah and
clear of the crowd of led horses under the tree, the
energetic spectators had breathing room and a less dusty
atmosphere to breathe. The start took place about a
quarter of a mile beyond the Thannah, the first hurdle
being placed in the field near Jodhpore Station, and the
line taken by the paper was over the road and straight for
the Bund country, thus giving any very impetuous spirit
a good mile straight within which to cool his ardour or
tumble on to his nose, whichever proceeding he most
fancied.

To return, however, to the beginning of events. The
Tougall and Mr. Bartie arrived punctually to time with
the necessary "scent," and were soon at work on the
responsible task of laying the paper. Little Norah,
Tougal's English mare, found the big fences and the
heavy weight on her back a great tax on her abilities, and
I think she deserves great credit for bringing her sporting
owner round in safety.

The list of starters is as follows : —

Mr. A. J. D Clerk's ... b. aust. g. The Snob.

Mr. W. O. Rees' .. b. aust. g. Kettledrum.

Mr. J. D. West's . b. aust. g. Saxonbury,

Mr. A. S. Barrow's . br. aust. h. Flatcatcher.

Mr. H, G. Warburton's ... gr. aust. m Molly.

Mr. Fred. Smith's ... b. aust. g. The Cob.

Mr. L. Walker's ... b. aust. g. Blazes.

Mr. A. L. Butler's ... gr. aust. g. Grey Dawn.

Mr. G. W. Walker's ... b.^ aust g. Splasher.

Mr. J. S. E Walker's ... blk. aust. g. King Cole.

Mr. A. Kay Muir's ... b. aust. g. First Spear.

After the usual interval they were let go to an even
start, Flatcatcher and Grey Dawn taking up the running
and showing the way over the first few fences which inter-
vened between the start and the Bund country. At the
first big wall — the second fence after crossing the Gurriah
Hat Road — a large crowd of people were collected, and
it was amusing to see how eagerly they watched for a

64

*' downer." They Avere, however, disappointed, as the
only approach to an accident was when Grey Dawn nearly
jumped on top of Flatcatcher. The brown's diminutive
size however stood him in good stead, and he just man-
aged to get away from the fence in time. The chase then
swept on over the Bund country, where Grey Dawn and
Flatcatcher took it in turns to lead over the formidable
fortifications that had been built. One of them very
nearly proved too much for old Blazes, who rapped it
hard and pecked badly on landing. His owner, however,
managed to keep him on his legs, and he sailed on none
the worse. We then took to the Tollygunge Lane, and
going to the right for a short distance the line again took
us across the ridge and furrow over a bank and further on
a hurdle, which being placed in rather an awkward posi-
tion to wheel straight for sent Flatcatcher and Grey Dawn
off the scent.

Kettledrum and The Snob then chipped in and took up
the lead, taking us through a small patch of jungle and
across the Sandy Lane into the covert on the other side.
A scramble over a hurdle and a scurry to the right past
the tank brought us once more into the open at the old
gates with two flights of hurdles in full view and the
mounted vedettes of the gallery visible on the high ground
beyond.

The pace now visibly improved, and Grey Dawn and
Flatcatcher who had made up the ground they had lost
joined the leaders, who with Blazes half a length behind
raced over the next few fences neck and neck. Turning
to the left over a big bank and the water jump Grey Dawn
and Flatcatcher got in front once more, the former landing
over the water about half a length in front of the brown
horse who was separated from the rest of the field by
about five lengths

Mr. Butler and Mr. Barrow, however,- were too
eager to get home, and instead of turning to the right
over the drop fence they shot off the line and went straight
on. Messrs. Rees, Clark and Walker then got in front,
and managing by this accident to secure a long lead they
fought it out over the remaining two hurdles, Mr. Rees
proving too good for Mr. Clark's somewhat inexperienced
jockey ship at the finish, Mr. Lamond Walker well up
third, Grey Dawn fourth, Saxonbury fifth and Flatcatcher
sixth. The rest arrived at intervals in more or less a

??"

I

^

k4

.i^-

»fe*

♦>^. .>^ ' u>

-^ff^

p^ o^

.^

. ?^f^

A

i^"

-«t/*"

G^

?i

li«/^-

.-^■'

^

\j^'

^^

'^

Paperchase Dinner Menu, 1892.

65

pumped-OLit condition, the distance and the big fences
having proved a somewhat severe tax on the horses.

Mr. Rees is to be congratulated on thus winning the
Paperchase Cup for the second year in succession. The
resuh was somewhat a fluky one, as I fancy Grey Dawn
would have made them all lie down if he had not been
so unlucky as to get off the rails. Flatcatcher was going
strong when we ran out, but I fancy Grey Dawn's stride
would have smothered little Flatcatcher when it came to
a hammer and tongs finish.

Mr. Lamond Walker deserves all praise for the way
in which he has ridden Blazes this season, and he received
many congratulations on winning the Heavy Weight
Cup.

1893.

•• In the van nf the battle, we heard the rails rattle,
Says he : 'though I don't care for shunning
My share of the raps, I shall look out for gaps,
AVhen the light weight's away with the running."

The above lines themselves tell vou almost as much
as there is to know about the Cup Chase, thoug"h not quite
all, as the light weight, although he was well away with
the running, couldn't manage to stick there, for the last
Saturda^■'s fences it was a case of —

" Oh the devil I a gap, she went into it slap,
And she and her jock took a header."

Never I suppose has the Calcutta Paperchase Cup been
so brimful of surprises as was last Saturday's. Two
favourites down in the first half mile, and the outsider,
who was making the running and who looked to be able
to win in a common canter, went down when she was
within three or four fences of home. And what a luckv
thing it is for some of us that this event does not receive
the attention of the knights of the Pencil. Last year
calculation was a bit upset, and the third favourite got
home, both the first selections running off the paper when
only three fences from home, and this year the race is won
by a horse whose price with any intelligent ringman would
have been written at " twenties. ' Trulv was the '' glorious
uncertainty " verified.

B, CPR 5

66

Out of an entry of nineteen, thirteen accepted, and of
these the only ones considered to be really dang-erous were
Ratafia, Lady Flo, and The Drummer. Lady Flo's
chances for the Light Weight Cup looked particularly
rosy, as her owner has found the recipe to ride this
mare successfully over a country, namely, to let the rest
go on and knock holes in them for her, and then trust
to her fine turn of speed at the finish to bring her home.
Ratafia was a moral for the Heavy Cup, and had a great
many supporters to win the chase outright. The Drum-
mer was known to be a bit green and on occasion inclined
to be headstrong, but with so good a horseman as his owner
up was allowed to be by no means one that his opponents
could afford to overlook.

Of the others little notice was taken. Dinah was
known to be a nice little mare, and a grand fencer, but
against the class she had to meet was deemed to be
harmless. In my private opinion this mare would have
won, and won easily had she not jumped carelessly over
one of the smallest fences on the whole course and come
down. Her feather weight was of course all in her
favour, and as she is as fit as a fiddle and a lot cleverer
than the ordinary cat, she would have taken a lot of beat-
ing if — but then it was "if" and the fences all seemed a bit
inclined to be ''if," and had a disconcerting way of turn-
ing people over. Blazes and Flatcatcher, although honest
hunters, could not be expected to really live with the class
that Ratafia and Lady Flo represented. Tantalus is a
very nicely bred horse, but has never shown up in the first
three places all the season, though we knew^ him for a
horse clever at his fences and a good stayer.

To come down to the cold facts, never in the memory
of man has such a crowd foregathered to see a Cup'Chase,
and not only did all Calcutta turn out, but the w^hole
•country side for miles around was '' up " to see the fun.

Our Aryan brethren mustered in shoals and posted
themselves at every likely looking place. I always know
when I am out paperchasing when we are coming up to a
rasper from the expectant crowd of '' critics " who congre-
gate to wait for the collar bones. The trampled-on tiller
of the soil has an uncommonly good eye for an accident,
and when he sees two or three sahibs down in a heap with
loose horses and "language" flying all over the place,
he feels his day has not been wasted and goes on his way

67

rejoicing". Help they never will give beyond catching your
horse in anticipation of the douceur !

The trysting" place was Jodhpore Station, and the
starting point from the same field as last year's Cup over a
hurdle, and then on over the bund country and interven-
ing fences.

Our M. F. H. and Captain Grimston laid the paper.

The field were speedily despatched, and on the word
being given, Dinah at once rushed away to the front and
led from The Drummer, Lady Flo and Ratafia, Snowdon
coming- next with the remainder in a cluster.

The first fence after the road was a bank with bush on
top of it, and then a wall, and then some more hurdles all
coming in quick succession. After these over which all
bar Ratafia jumped well, the line went on to the celebrated
*' bunds.''

These solid fences take all the jumping that a horse
can give them, and liberties cannot be taken with them in
any wav. It's either jump or fall as they wont give an
inch. Dinah was bringing them along a cracker as they
swung into the open and came over these raspers fencing
like a book. The first of them gave no one any trouble,
but at the second the grief began. The Drummer rushed
at it, hit it hard and turned over on top of his rider. Lady
Flo coming next, got over the fence right enough, but
cannoned into the fallen Drummer and came down also,
pinning Mr. Butler to the ground. At the next one Snowdon
turned a most imperial turtle and knocked his sporting-
owner out of time. Flatcatcher with a cleverness that did
him credit stopped dead when he saw that he could not
jump without landing right on top of the fallen horse and
man. Ratafia now went up into second place, attended by
Half Pay, Blazes, and Tantalus ; Flatcatcher refused the
fence followinsf the third bund ^nd lost further orround.
This fence was another strongly banked bund and the one
after it a very healthy thing in mud walls standing at the
very least four feet. This last was the ninth fence in the
first mile of the distance, and this severe tax on the jumping
powers of the horses had visibly thinned the field and
choked off all but the real '' customers." Dinah still spun
along in front best pace, and after crossing the Tollygunge
Lane led her field through some extremely narrow and
cramped lanes to the Molla Hat Road. The turn on to
the pucca from this jungle lane was a wicked one, a narrow

68

little culvert with a tank on the near side to accommodate
any restless ones. It is, perhaps, as well that the severe
fencing had tailed them off a bit, for had there been a crush
at this corner, serious grief must have ensued. For the
half mile, the course was the same as last Thursday's,
namely, down the Tollygunge Garden Lane through the
hole in the wall and away again in the open over three
walls.

Kailana took one of these a foot too low, and Mr. Green
Wilkinson took a crumpler, landing in some of that pretty
evergreen foliage commonly known as cactus. The paper
then went straight on '' forrard " over a hurdle, and then
right-handed to a small wall heading back to the Molla
Hat Road once more. It was at this obstacle that clever
little Dinah came to grief. The little mare misjudged the
distance, took off too close ; clouted it and turned head
over heels on top of her feather-weight owner. Mr. King
was dazed for a minute or two, and unfortunately the mare
got away from him. Had he managed to keep hold of
her, he would even then had been well in it, as when he
fell, the second man was not in sight. Ratafia now came
on attended by Tantalus, Half Pav, Sir Colin, Blazes,
Bannagher lying next, with Flatcatcher some distance in
rear, being ridden as hard as his sporting mistress could
shove him along, and making up his lost ground very
fast. In the plough to the north of the Molla Hat Road
was placed a diminutive water jump, one of the few small
fences on the course.

Landing over this Banshee pecked and rolled over, the
sticky plough being mainlv responsible. Some hurdles
came next and then on the other side of the high ground a
wall. When thev had reached this point, thev were within
measurable distance of their journey's end and after jumping
the drop fence at Pilgrim's corner, they swung left-handed
and headed straight for the Gurriah Hat Road and the
finish. When they came in view of the spectators. Ratafia
was seen to hold a slight advantage from Tantalus, and
over the next two fences (hurdles) the positions remained
unchanged. Coming over the road, however, Tantalus
drew level, and racing up level at the last hurdle, he landed
with a slight lead. Both horses hit them hard, but Tan-
talus was quickest away, and drawing to the front in the last
few strides won a most sensational race by a very short
length. Half Pay done to a turn was third two lengths

69

off, and Sir Colin a length off, fourth. Blazes cooked to
ribend fifth, and Flatcatcher sixth, Mrs. Barrow receiv-
ing a well-earned round of applause as she passed the
flags.

In my opinion. Ratafia could have won, done as
he was, but Lord William very sportingly contented
himself with the Heavy Weight Cup.

Air. Dring rode a plucky and well-ridden race
throughout, and thoroughly deserves the Cup which he
and his clever little nag have won.

Had the others not fallen, 1 should have expected to
see the order as follows : — Dinah home by the skin of
her teeth from either Lady Flo or Ratafia, the latter for
choice.

Below is the record : —

Mr. W. A. Dring's

* Lord William l^eresford's

* Capt. Jenkin's

* Dr. Forsyth's

* Mr. E. Ezra's
Mrs. Barrow's
Mr. H. D. Cartvvright's

* Mr. Wilkinson's
Mr. A. L. Butler's
Mr. L. Walker's
Mr. Rees'
Mr. Von Schmidt's
Mr. L. King's

Tantalus '

I

Ratafia

2

Half Pay

•■• 3

Sir Colin

.. 4

Hlazes

••• 5

Flatcatcher

... 6

Saionara

C)

Kailana

... fell

Lady Flo

... M\

Banshee

... fdl

The Drummer

... fell

Snowdon

... fell

Dinah

... fell

Heavy weights.

1894.

The Blue Riband of Amateur cross-country sport
in Calcutta was run off last Saturday, and certainly may
claim to have resulted in one of the best contested races
of its kind that have occurred.

The Cup is always a popular fixture, and as it is one
of those sporting events which is totally devoid of the
allurements of ''filthy lucre," and is purely an honour-
and-glory competition, the attraction to the hunting
section of the community is always greater. It is true
that to-day a horse that aspires to win the Paperchase
■Cup must be a considerably better class animal than even
so short a time ago as seven years he had to be, and as

•o

good as little fourteen-hand Rabbit was when INIr. Butler
used to cut out the work in such style, he would have
but little chance against what goes now-a-days. Not
only must a horse be a clever and consistent fencer, but
he must be very nearly clean-bred or even quite so, and
able to gallop and to stay. The course over which the
Cup is run is as big as ToUygunge, and if anything stiffer,.
as there all the fences are solid, whereas at ToUygunge
bar the banks, the fences can be chanced and the distance
is a good deal (about a mile and a half) further than any
race that is run at the steeplechase meeting.

Therefore it is perfectly patent that to win the Cup
both horse and man require to be in very good trim indeed.

The tax on horse and man is alwavs rendered more
severe on account of the state of the thermometer in the
month in which the Cup is as a rule run, and last Satur-
day proved no exception as the heat was quite as manifest
as was comfortable, though it certainly was not over-power-
ing. Notwithstanding, a large crowd of spectators, both
on wheels and on horseback, turned out, and from a
quarter to seven to close upon the half hour the road from
Calcutta to Jodhpore was thronged with carriages and
presented the spectacle of a moving pillar of dust, such
as would have put the Israelites' pilot cloud to shame.

The start was from Jodhpore, and after the paper had
gone, Mr. McLeod riding a new bay horse and Mr. West
on Old Saxonbury, the following put in an appearance
under Mr. Petrie's charge, almost all, bar Rosette, having
accepted.

Light

W

eights.

Miss King

on

Dinah.

Mrs. Norman

,j

Marigold.

Mr. Boden

jackdaw.

Mr. Campbell

Miss Theo.

Mr. Von Schmidt

Hard face.

Mr. Moore

Merryboy.

Cnpt. Turner

Khalid.

Mr. Rees

The Drummer

Heavy

Weights.

Mr. Green Wilkinson

on

Kailana.

Mr. Cowie

5'

Artaxerxes.

Mr. A. J. Pugh

M

Tafly.

Mr. Robson-Scott

1?

Aurora.

Mr. La-nond Wall,

:er

) )

Otheilo.

Mr. G. Walker

»»

Splasher.

Mr. Smith

J»

Nellie.

Mr. Cartwright

1<

Saionara.

71

The course being" a long one and the fences stiff, fuH
law was allowed, and it was close upon a quarter to eight
before Mr. Petrie let them go. The first fence was a
hurdle, and when the signal was given, Mr. Robson-
Scott jumped Aurora away to the front and went out a
nice pace, leading his field over the hurdles, and then up
alongside the railway line across the Monsoon Road, and
further on across the Gurriah Hat Road. On both sides
of the road were some deep narrow little ditches, which it
is almost impossible for horses to see until they are right
on top of them, the one at the Gurriah Hat accounted for
three of the Welter Division.

Othello came down first, then Nellie and on top of
the pair Saionara. The last-named was remounted, but
both the riders of the others were more or less severely
hurt. Mr. Lamond Walker sustained injuries about the
head and was knocked out of time for a bit. The next
obstacle was a wall this side of Pilgrim's corner over
which Aurora still led from Jackdaw, Miss Theo, Kailana,
Artaxerxes, Hardface and The Drummer, the rest close
up ; Dinah and Marigold whipping in with Saionara a
long" way in rear.

They w^ent round the corner and ringed back towards
the Gurriah Hat Road again, and then turned right-handed
and were set going with an almost clear run of over a mile
with the stiffest of fences in front of them. As they got
into the open. Miss Theo, Jackdaw, and Kailana all ranged
up to Aurora, and the quartette showed the wav over the
stiff fences almost neck and neck. Hardface, the Drummer,
Merriboy, Khalid and Tafty coming next all close to-
gether, and Dinah and Marigold some lengths in rear.
Merriboy hit the top of the first bund badly, and as they
are not noted for much give-and-take, it sent him on
to his head, and as he recovered very quickly, he shot
Mr. Moore several feet into^ the air. There was not
another disaster registered over these fences, and the field
then drove straight ahead over two more big walls and
across the Toll}'gunge Lane. After jumping a flight of
hurdles, they ringed back on to it, and then crossed the
Molla Hat Road, near the old bridge, and Avent on into the
railway country. The Drummer had by this considerably
improved his position and the order in the lane was :
Aurora, Jackdaw^, The Drummer, Miss Theo, Khalid, and
Hardface, next to them coming Artaxerxes, Kailana, Taffy

72

and Dinah. Khalid ran up third immediately they got
clear of the jungle and Jackdaw led at the next fence. It
was a solid wall, and Khalid overjumped himself, touched
the top of it, and the gallant Arab pony turned head over
heels ; Artaxerxes jumped crooked at it, and also rolled
over ; and Kailana's chances were also destroyed by a fall,
his owner getting somewhat ironed out. Jackdaw was
now left in command, and as the paper went right-about-
wheel back to the Molla Hat Road, his sporting owner was
somewhat slow at picking up the line, and though he held
a considerable advantage through the cramped country
where Jackdaw's handiness served him in good stead, he
allowed The Drummer and Miss Theo to catch him before
he got to the Molla Hat Road again. A ding-dong race
home in the plough below the road then took place,
Jackdaw holding the advantage right away up to the last
hurdle where he fell heavily, being too cooked to rise.
The Drummer and Miss Theo kept spinning, and after a
good race. The Drummer won by a bare length all out.
Hardface was a good third.

The official record is as follows : —

I

... 2

... 4

5
... 6

1895.

When the '* Squire " characterised the Calcutta Paper-
chase Cup as one of the prizes that was best worth
winning in the whole of India at the recent Paperchase
Dinner, he went marvellously near the mark, for I know
of no more sporting institution in the whole of India than
the Calcutta Hunt, nor of a trophy that takes more win-
ning than does the Paperchase Cup. The course over
which the Cup is run is in good sooth as heavv a job to
cross as any man might wish to meet with, and for a
downright hard ride there is nothing to beat it. It is a
steeplechase from start to finish, and one of the best chases
to watch that any one could wish to see. The fastest burst
with hounds or after pig is not as fast as they go in the

Mr.

Rees's

The Drummer

Mr.

C. C. Campbell's

Miss Theo

Mr.

Von Schmidt's

Hardface

Mr.

Pugh's

Taffy

Mr.

G. W. Walker's

Splasher

Mr.

Robson-Scott's

Aurora

Miss King's

Dinah

6

<

73

Paperchase Cup of Calcutta, and considering the distance
is three to four miles as a rule and sometimes more, it may-
be well understood that it takes both a fit horse and a
fit man to win it. The race for the Cup kills anything
that is "soft, " and a slow onealso has very little chance,
though there is of course always the chance of the leader
over-shooting the mark, and one that to all appearances
is '' beaten to the world " coming home, as happened when
Mr. W. O. Rees cut in and won on Kettledrum when to
all appearances two fences from home Grey Dawn and
Flatcatcher were the only two left in. The race last
Saturday mornin^^ Avas a good one, and the course ditto,
but I thought somewhat on the small side, for none of the
fences were so big as we have had them in former years.
To I\Ir. C. C. Campbell we must all combine in offering
•our heartiest congratulations, for he has nobly deserved
all the Cups he has won. Miss Theo in my opinion could
have gone clean away from the field at any portion of the
journey, as I consider she was lolbs. in front of anything
that started; Mr. Campbell nevertheless drew it dangerously
fine and might well have lost it had Miss Theo blundered
at all when she hit the last hurdle, but as it was, she
cleverly recovered herself and galloped on without chang-
ing her stride — and got home. The mare, 1 am sorry to
hear, has since the Cup been laid up with a lump on her
knee as a result of that last hurdle, and it is a wonderful
piece of luck that her one and only mistake should have
•come after she had won the Cup, for which her hard-riding
owner had been keeping her. The course started from the
bank bv Pilgrim's Corner taking a bee-line for the Tolly-
gunge Lane, the fences intervening being a fair-sized wall
to start over, an open ditch, a flight of hurdles, and the
big wall, on to the bund, a very fair bill of fare in so short
a distance as you will admit. Then it went to the left down
the lane till it came to the break in the underwood which
lets us through into the lesser bund country and travelling
over a flight of hurdles and a wall it eventually went to
the left over the high ground, and through the short lanes
to the bund country proper, jumping en route from the
drop side, the fence by the Mahomedan graves. The bund
country was taken from the Jodhpore side as usual, and
after jumping it the line lay round the jungle belt for
MoUa Hat, the two walls in the hollow being the last of
the mud fences. The finish was in the plough alongside

74

the Molla Hat Road over two flights of hurdles, and the
run in must have been close on a quarter of a mile.

The Squire and Mr. Blackmore jumped the course on
Splasher and Nellie, and the field were not kept long in sus-
pense before Ballygunge jim gave them the office, and those
who went down to the first fence all so gallant and gay
were the followino- : —

C5

Light

Weights.

Mr. Barnett

on

El]er.<;lie.

Mr. Campbell

5 ■

Miss Theo.

Mr. Gresson

n

Asthore.

Mr. H. O. King

•1

Storm.

Mr. Builer

J J

The Cat.

Mr. Glasgow

Blink Bonny,

Mrs. Barrow

>•

Flatcatcher.

Mr. Barrow

r 9

Melton.

Capt. Agnew

)>

Carlton.

Mr. Wbiiby Smith

, ,

Jericho.

Capt. Turner

Damages.

Heavy

U'\

eights.

Mr. Piigh

on

Tafify.

Capt. Fuller

Queen.

Mr. Toy n bee

April Fool.

Mr. Laniond Walker

Dick.

Mr. Blair

Boolka.

Melton jumped the first fence in front of everything,,
the only time by the way he was in front, behind him coming
Queen, Blink Bonny and Asthore, next Queen, Ellerslie,
Damages, The Cat, Storm, Flatcatcher, and a bunch of
them all close up. At the big wall Blink Bonny took a
clod off for anyone behind, but it was no time for picking
and choosing as the straightest way was undoubtedly the
shortest, with such a field of thrusters out.

They soon got to the road when Jim Turner by a judi-
cious cut got in front of Miss Theo into the lane, but was
passed by her as they debouched into the open once more.
This was the onl)^ dusty bit of the whole ride, and anyone
lying close up to the leading division could not see his
hand in front of his face, but I know that Miss Theo,
Ellerslie, The Cat and Damages were all doing their little
bit in front, and led in turns, the pace being almost too
good to enquire for any one else. 1 saw Capt. Fuller
going in a style that did one's heart good, and Mr. Toynbee
was riding^ as if fourteen^ — or is it fifteen Mr. T. ? — stone
was a " feather ! " As we shaped back to the bunds. Miss
Theo got in front, with Ellerslie and The Cat lying

75

closeup to her, and Captain Turner, Mr. Glasgow and Mr.
King- and Mr. Gresson all well in it, they went over this bit
of country in great form. Over the two walls in the hollow
The Cat and Ellerslie held a slight lead of everything else,.
Miss Theo lying clear of them with a line of her own on
the inside, and at the corner Mr. Campbell came to the
front hands down, Ellerslie and Damages being sent along,
and The Cat done with — all the rest dead to the world.

The three came on, Miss Theo waiting on them and
many were the yells to Mr. Campbell to " go on." Damages
came every time he was asked, but he had done at the last
hurdle, where for a moment it looked as if the ominous
rattle was going to spell a r-o-1-1 as Miss Theo made the
top rail sing, but she quickly recovered herself, and though
Mr. Barnettand Captain Turner persevered to the end, and
rode every ounce out of their horses, Miss Theo won three-
quarters extended bv a short head ; a length off Damages.

The Official order was : — ■

Mr. Campbell en Miss Theo ... ... i

Mr. Barnelt .. KUerslie ... ... 2

Capt. Turner .. Damat;;es ... ... 3

Mr. Glasgow .. Blink bonny ... •••4

Mr. H. O. Kini,' ., Storm ... ... 5

Mr, Butler ., The Cat ... ... 6

.Mr. Gresson ., Asthore ... ... 7

Capt. Agnew .. Carlton ... ... 8

Capt. Fuller .. Queen ... ... 9*

* Heavy Weight Cup.

1896.

That an unfortunate contretemps should have marred
what would undoubtedly have been a very hardly contested
finish for the Calcutta Paperchase Cup of 1896 will ever
be a matter of regret. Yet so it^ was, all the leaders miss-
ing the second last fence and one of the heavies, Colonel
Hunt to wit, who had quietly been cantering behind
in company with Postboy and a bad attack of the '' floo "
got home without so much as having to extend his
hunter. The various reasons assigned for the leaders
missing the paper are now stale news ; but for the sake of
making the records complete, I may put my private
opinion down, and it was, 1 think, a combination of dust,
impetuosity and scantiness of paper which caused the

76

leaders to go astray, but it is all over now, so the least said
about it the better, the more so I hear that a generous
sportsman is going to give the Calcuttaites an opportunity
of doing it all over again under similar conditions :
provided, of course, I suppose, there is rain to soften the
ofround withal.

The morning was particularly hot by comparison, but
the going was, with the exception of about half a mile,
hard as brick-bats, and the dust something too awful ;
on the roads it was impossible to see one's horse's ears,
let alone one's next door neighbour, the only indication of
whose whereabouts was the bump and the jostle which
one received from all points of the compass. The dis-
tance was four miles, and the i'ences fully both large and
numerous, the bund walls and the big wall being enough
to tax the ingenuity of the most accomplished fencers.

The country chosen was the line from the Gurriah
Hat Road across to the Tollygunge Lane, t'/c, the bund
country, then across the Alolla Hat Road right-handed, a
big ring in the railway country with a real big supply of
jumping on hand, and home to a finish across the Molla
Hat leading up to the Rifle Brigade /heel !

I was too full of dust and anxiety to remain to really
count how many fences I jumped, but I've a vague idea
that it was something inside of twentv, and they were
most of them — as high as one would wish to meet so early
in the morning.

The following is a list of the starters : —

Heavy JVeighis.
Capt. Grimston on Queen.

Col. Hunt ,, I'ostboy.

Maj. Lyle ,, Midnight.

Mr A. J. Pugh ,, Sir Ga'reth.

Mr. L. A. Smith ,, Woad.

Light Weights.

Miss King on School-girl.

Mr. l^arrow ,, Flatcatcher.

Mr C. Campbell ,, Miss Theo.

Lord Fincastle ,, Freebooter.

Mr. Lauder ,, Barmaid.

Mr. Rawlinson ,, Snapshot.

Mr. Rees ,, Caliban.

Mr. Swanstf-n ,, Leila.

Maj. Turner ,, Damages.

Mr. R. Westmacoll ,, Maori.

Mr. A. L. Butler ,, Unity.

Capt. Agnew ., Carlton.

Mr. Whitby Smith ,, Jericho.

77

The paper was laid by Messrs. Blackmoreand Gresson,
but owing to its being such a long journey, it did not last
out properly, so "scent" was fairly lost in the last mile.

Shortly after the advertised hour, 7-30 a.m., the field
were let go, and the hurry everyone was in to get first over
the preliminary fence showed there was no lack of keen-
ness in the field, and there Avas an equal crush over the
second fence, the drop. It was not until the bund countrv
was reached that they had really shaken down into their
places, and it was then seen that Leila, Damages, Miss
Theo, and Flatcatcher were cutting out the work from
Sir Gareth, Freebooter, Unity, Queen, Caliban, Carlton,
and a few more all close up, the body of the field also in
close order.

There Avere two big walls and an open ditch here, and
further on the big wall on the bund and a water jump.
Over the big wall, the jumping all round was very good,
though Unitv hit it prettv hard. At the water, which came
as a bit of a surprise, Carlton fell on landing, though Capt.
Agnew was not hurt. A hurdle only intervened between
the lanes into the Molla Hat Road, and then we beg-an
putting up the average of that peck of dirt that it is the
fate of us all to gobble. Mr. Rees came with a rattle on
the road, and Unitv and Freebooter also got nearer the
front. Oft' the road into the raihvay country Miss Theo
led. Damages second, then Freebooter, Leila. Caliban,
Unity, Sir Gareth, Flatcatcher and Queen, and thev
jumped two more big walls before they cast up at the lane
by the '' Old Man's Crossing." At the corner here both
Miss Theo and Leila were nearlv down.

There was not much lane hunting before we again
scrambled through the covert on our right, and got at the
jumping game again, the order at the drop fence, the two
walls, and the bush and ditch this side of the Molla Hat
being Miss Theo, Damages, Freebooter, Flatcatcher,
Unity, Leila, Caliban, Sir Gareth and Queen. At the ditch
on to the road, the dust was so bad that those behind could
not see it, and Flatcatcher and Unity both narrowly saved
a fall. Then came the mistake, as owing to the dust and
the angle at which they left the road all the leading divi-
sion ran aside of the second last fence and only jumped
the concluding hurdle. The actual order in which they
passed the post seems in dispute ; but when the mistake was
discovered. Sir Gareth, Miss Theo, Flatcatcher, Freebooter

78

and Leila turned round and went back to correct their
error, but in the meantime Colonel Hunt had come up and
sailed home a very easy winner.

Mr. Rawlinson on Snapshot ought to have won, had
he been able to get his horse straight in time, but he
jumped only the left wing of the second-last hurdle, and
was therefore disqualified.

The official order was given as follows : —

* Col. Hunt on Postboy ... i

t Mr. A. J. Pugh ,, Sir G«reth ... 2

Mr. C. Campbell ,, Miss Theo ... 3

Mr. A. S. Harrow ,, Flatcatcher ... 4

Lord Fincasile ,, P'reebooter ... 5

Capt. Swanston ,, Leila ... 6

* Winner of Paperchase Cup.
t Winner of Heavy Weight Cup.

1897.

The Paperchase season in Calcutta came to a con-
clusion on Saturday last, the 30th March, with the Cup
Chase. This is the most sporting steeplechase in India,
and probably a more severe test so far as the jumping
ofoes than even the Indian Grand National, for the fences
are decidedly more formidable and the distance greater ;
the pace for the class of horse that competes is also very
sound. Saturday's race w^as considered to be the most
open of all competitions of recent years, for. with Miss
Theo absent, it looked as if quite half a dozen of them
had a chance of winning. The race, however, is not
always to the swift, especially over such country as is
before the Paperchase Cup candidates, for there are a
great manv more chances against a horse in a competition
of this kind than there are in a steeplechase over an open
flagged course ; he may find the turns and rough ground
take more out of him than he contemplates, the fences
probably are not so kind to him as the flying bush fences
of Tollygunge and elsewhere, and he may make a wrong
turn and run off the paper track and lose ground that he
will find it very hard to regain. Aconite, the winner, is
a big up-standing bay, who, were it not that he is as
handy as a cat and very temperate, would be the very
reverse of what one would pick for a pattern paperchaser.
He is, however, an undeniable fencer and possessed of a

surprising amount of pace, and he was, without a shadow
of doubt, the fittest horse that started on Saturday, as when
he finished he was ahndst as fresh as when he started.

The line taken lay from Jodhpore Thannah over a
night of hurdles in the field to the left of the road, then
along by the railway over a deep drop, and so on over
some hurdles, the station road, an open ditch and some
more hurdles to the Gurriah Hat Road. From here the
line lay over the natural bund and a flight of hurdles as
far as the drop fence, but it was not jumped, at that time
the paper going away to the left and taking a turn in the
open country before it returned to the drop, which had to
be jumped from the reverse way up, and was a very big
fence indeed. The bund country was then crossed, three
bunds, the big wall on the bund and the water jump being
the fences before the Tollygunge Lane : after this the
course turned right-handed in the direction of Molla Hat,
and the wall by the brick kilns was jumped, the straight
run in after that being over two flights of hurdles and a
bushed wall. The going was very hard for the most of
the way, the bund country as usual being the only soft
bit. The following is a list of the starters : —

aust. g. Saionara.
aust- m. Dolly,
aust. g. Cockell.
aust. m Marguerite,
aust. g. Golden Spray,
aust. g. Barney,

Light Weights.

Lord Fincastle's ... b. aust. g. Islonsay,

Lord Geo. Murray's ... ch. aust. m. Marigold.

Mr. G. C. Benson's ... b. aust, g. T^bberjee.

Mr. D. S. Eraser's ... br. aust. ni. Little Nell.

Major Turner's ... b. -aust. ya . Aconite.

Mr. W. E. Bayley's ... bk. aust. g. Troubadour.

Capt. Q Agnew's ... ch. aust. h. Carlton.

Mr. A. L. Butler's ... b. aust. g. Saturn

Mr. R. H. A. Gresson's ... ch. aust m Eau-de-\'ie.

Mr. H. G. L Panchaud's ... b. aust. g. Leda.

Mr. H. Whitby Smith's ... 1). aust g. Jericho.

Mr. Barrow's ... b. aust. m. Belinda.

Mr. West and Mr. Blackmore laid the paper and Mr.
Petrie started. At a quarter to eight the large field were
got into line, and no time was lost in sending them on
their adventurous journey. The first to anticipate the

Heavy

Wei gilts.

Capt. C

Jou

gh's

,. bay

Mr.

H

. D

. Cartwrig

ht's ".'

.. b.

Mr.

N.

A.

, McLeod'

s

.. br. J

Mr.

I-

W.

Orr's

,. b. J

Mr.

G.

vv

- Walker'^

>

.. b. ;

Mr.

A.

J.

Pugh's

. ch. ;

Mr.

E.

E.

Martin's

,. ch.

8o

signal were Aconite, Marguerite, Belinda, Golden Spray
and Eau-de-Vie, followed by Islonsay, Cockell, Saturn
and Barney. Lord George Murray came down at the drop.
The order remained unchanged till the Gurriah Hat Road
was crossed, and the natural bund and hurdle had been
jumped, but here Aconite missed the paper and let
Marguerite get in front of him in the lane to the
Mahomedan graves. Once in the open again, however.
Aconite led, and was followed by the mare, Islonsay,
Saturn, Eau-de-Vie, Belinda, Cockell, Barney and Golden
Spray. The same order w^as maintained all the way to
the bund country where Cockell improved his position,
and Saturn also lay close up. Marguerite beginning to
tire as they jumped the water. In the Tollygunge Lane
Belinda went up fourth, and at the wall in the corner the
order was : Aconite and Saturn leading, closely followed
bv Islonsay and Belinda, Cockell and Eau-de-Vie next.
Marguerite whipping in. In the straight Aconite galloped
clean away from them all and his field being all badly
beaten two fences from home. Cockell ran out at the
third-last fence, and lost Mr. Orr the Heavy Weight Cup,
Marguerite being the first welter weight in. The follow-
ing was the order : —

Major Turner on Aconite ... i

Mr. Butler ,, Saturn ... 2

Lord Fincastle ,, Islonsay ... 3

Mr Barrow ,. B^-linda ... 4

Mr. GressoM ,, E;Tu-fle-Vie ... 5

Mr. G. W. Walker .. Marguerite (h) ... 6

Major Turner is to be congratulated upon a very
excellent performance, and Mr. Walker's win was also
immensely popular. After the run there was a chota hazri,
at which the members of the hunt v^ere " At Ho'me " to
all their friends.

1898.

He wins all the way, and the rest-- sweet, they say.

Is the smeil of the newly-turned plough, friend ;
But you smell it too close when it stops eyes and nose,

And you can't tell your horse from your cow, friend !

Lindsay Gordon.

1 HAVE a very stale subject to handle and a still staler
stump of a pen. It has been talked of already by three

Mr. G. W. Walker (" The Squire.")

8i

*' competent critics " (copyright), and we have heard ev^ery-
thing there is to be heard in connection with it. The
beaten have been condoled with and the victorious congrat-
ulated ; we have carefully re-ridden every yard of the line,
re-jumped every fence, scratched our faces against the
same thorns, shorn all the shine off our boots at the same
time and re-delivered ourselves of that last effort in the
straight I What, therefore, can I tell you ? Would it
interest your readers to know how some of us W'ished we
had docked smoking earlier in our training, or been more
dilio;"ent with the dumb-bells before our mornino- tub?
How a bad flounder or a peck at the drop shook all the
wind we had remaining out of us, how he tore at his
bridle going at the big wall, and how we thanked our stars
that India had still left us nerve enough not to mind if he
had not measured that last stride right ? How we hugged
ourselves as he landed into the next field, and we looked
between his ears for the next one? I don't know. Your
sporting readers have perhaps felt all these sensations.
In a long gallop across country one gets a whole heap of
them, and it is a lesson in patience such as few other
things are or ever can be. Perhaps he's pulling our arms
out, and we feel he must know better than we can what
pace he ought to go ; perhaps we think the brown horse
in front of us is getting dangerously far away, and we
have to kick ourselves to keep from chasing him when we
take the trouble to remember that he can't help coming
back to us at the pace he is going, or down himself if he
chances any more of them as he did that last wall.

Fortune does not always favour the brave, and after
the gallant Avay The Squire cut out the work on Saturday,
he deserved a better fate than that which awaited him at
the last fence. Even if all had gone well, I feel convinced
Drums Avould never have won, for both he and his rider
were cooked to a turn. Molly Riley was coming the
fastest of the lot, and was no doubt the freshest, but it
would have taken her all her time to beat Ice Cream in
spite of the latters having had all that he wanted. It was
a good finish spoiled by a most unfortunate accident.

" Squire Walker" is doing as Ave 11 as could possibly
be hoped, and we all hope to see him at dinner to-morrow
night.

The course was as good a one as possible. The
middle two miles of it were of the best, but both the start

B, CPR 6

82

and the half nnle just before they re-crossed the JNIolla
Hat were very unpleasant places in which to indulge in a
promenade a clieval! The field ran off the paper iwo or
three times on the return journey, but Mr. McLeod cannot
be blamed for this as there was no country available.

A bigger gallery turned out to witness this race than
I remember to have seen for many years past, and those
who rode were not disappointed ; for, owing to its being
such a long course, they were able to see the start and then
gallop across to the lower country where all the heaviest
jumping had to be done, and then go on and be in plenty
of time to see the finish. I suppose the distance was well
over 4 miles.

Messrs. Mayne and Pugh carried the paper, and
after it had got round in safety, Mr. McLeod martial-
led the field of ten runners and after a caution as to the
broken ground let them go. Ice Cream and Molly Riley
led from Drums, Mavourneen, Hammer and Tongs, the
C.-in-C.'s staff, Barney and Jericho. After the first two
fences the ground was very bad — that holey bit along by
the railway. We missed looth the ditch and the drop and
only jumped a flight of hurdles before reaching the Station
Road. Here a bullock cart got in the way and Molly
Riley charged it and then bolted. Ice Cream led them
into the bund country followed by Drums, Mavourneen,
Hammer and Tongs, Barney, the staff, Jericho. Trombone
and Molly Riley. At the first of the bunds Mavourneen
went down, and getting away from her rider she accom-
panied the field for a long way on. At the big wall
Molly Riley had regained a good deal of ground and
over the Tollygunge Lane the first six were all close to-
gether. Ice Cream still leading. Down the Tollygunge
(Gardens Lane the order was : \c^ Cream, Drum:!;, Ham-
mer and Tongs, Good Heavens, Molly Riley, Barney,
Bushranger and Jericho ; but as they got into the open
country again Molly Riley went up alongside Ice Cream
and the pair jumped the next fence level. A flight of
hurdles at an awkward angle caused them all to run oft'
the paper, and again this happened at the new embank-
ment, Ice Cream and Drums getting away quickest after
this mistake and securing a long lead from Hammer and
Tongs and Molly Riley.

As they came into the straight Drums looked to be
cooked, and Mr. Walker had hard work to keep Ice Cream

8,1

going", while Molly Riley, once she got a clear run, made up
her lost ground very fast. At the last fence Drums was so
cooked that he ran out and carried Ice Cream with him,
Mr. Walker getting knocked off b}^ the wing of the fence
and taking a somewhat severe fall. Molly Riley was from
four to five lengths off when this happened, but after it

•^vas

i nothing

to

do

but canter home.

The

order

Mr. Barrow

on

Molly Riley

... 1

Mr. Hayden

Hammer and Tongs

.. 2

Mr. Martin

l^arney (11)

J

Capt. Taylor

Bushranger (H)

•• 4

Capt. Atrnew

Good Heavens

•• 5

Mr. Whitby Smith

lericho

.. 6

Mr. G. VV. Walker

ice Cream (fell) fll)

.. o

Mr. Gresson

Mavourneen (fell)

.... o

Mr. Souttar

Trombone (H)

,- o

Mr. Birkmyre

Drums (ran out)
H=: heavy \s eight.

... 0

1899.

That the greatest interest centred in the Cup race
Avas evidenced by the numbers who turned out to wit-
ness the struggle for this trophy. From Ball3^gunge to
the Red Road on Saturday morning a continuous stream
of vehicles of every imaginable description poured along
the route ; two four-in-hands were out, one bringing the
Government House party, the other a nice team of bays
represented Dr. Spooner Hart's stable ; tandems, pairs and
tum-tums galore spun along towards the " The Old Man's
Crossing," whilst bicyclists wended their way warily
through the crowds of carriages. And last but not least
Her Excellencv Lady Curzon drove up in a barouche under
escort of the Viceroy's Body-Guafd. Her Excellency was
accompanied by Lady Lonsdale, and both ladies evinced
the greatest interest in the proceedings.

The start for the Cup was in the field to the left of the
lane leading to the '' Old Man's Crossing," and a field of
seven onlv faced the starter, the diminished number from
that of previous years being very noticeable. Those who
lined up waiting for the flag to drop were : Mr. G. Walkei
on Ice Cream, Mr. Mayne on Baal, Mrs. Barrow on
Flatcatcher, ]\Ir. Barrow on Molly Riley, Captain Beatty
•on Reflector, Mr. Wheeler on Eau-de-Vie, Mr. Russell on

84

Cossack. Unfortunately the two other entries, Mr. Martin's-
Consequence and Mr. Birkmyre's Drums, were unable to-
fulfil their engagements. After crossing a hurdle in the
starting field, the course took a sharp turn to the right
over a mud wall and back through the open jungle
over the " Old Man's Crossing.'' Mr. Mayne immediately
went to the front, followed by Mr. Walker, Mr.-
Wheeler, Captain Beatty, Mr. Russell, Mr. and Mrs.
Barrow bringing up the tail. This order was maintained
through the jungle and across the Molla Hat Road into
the Jodhpore country, and so on into the bund country.
Here Molly Rilev and Flatcatcher began to draw up,
and over the big mud walls passed Cossack and Reflector.
After jumping the bund country in magnificent style
Eau-de-Vie stumbled over some very rough ground on the
take-off side of a hurdle, and striking the hurdle turned
turtle and broke her neck. The greatest sympathy is felt
for her owner, Mr. \\^heeler, over the loss of a mare which
he had taken the greatest pains with to bring fit to the
post, and would have been there or thereabouts at the
finish but for this untimely accident. After this the
course again turned towards the Molla Hat Road, and
here Molly Riley got up to the leaders. Crossing the
Molla Hat Road the course lay through the jungle, and
then out alongside the railroad. Here the real racing-
began, and Mr. Mayne keeping up a strong steady pace
maintained the lead with Mr. Walker lying some four
lengths behind, the same distance separating the latter
from Mr. Barrow. Sweeping in a half circle to the
right over Sandy Lane Crossing, the course lay parallel
with the railroad towards the finish at the "Old Man's-
Crossing," through the broken bit of jungle and over
the intervening rough ground, Mr. Mayne kept his
mount w^ell together, and swinging over the last two
hurdles in fine style won from Mr. Barrow after a grand
finish by about a neck, half a length separating the
latter from Mr. Walker, whose heayy weight had told
on his mount considerably. After the first three there
came a gap, and then Captain Beatty on Reflector, who-
went through the last two fences in a most marvellous
fashion, appeared on the scene followed by Mrs. Barrow
and Mr. Russell.

The course was an extra long one, being, we should
say, from our ride round after close on to fiye miles, and.

85

tricky in the extreme, there being one or two places in
which going at a pace the straightest riders must have
taken an extra grip. The course was made by Mr.
T. Anderson, whose thorough knowledge of the country
enabled him to select a course which passed through a lot
of country hitherto unknown to the riders. The paper was
laid by Lord Suffolk and Mr. Gresson, and there was
nothing to complain of in the way in which the paper was
evenly scattered. At the finish Mr. Mayne, whose success
was quite unanticipated, was overwhelmed with congratula-
tions, and we can only say that Mr. Mayne has proved
iiimself a cross-country rider of exceptional merits ; the
way in which he nursed his horse and brought him
along at the right time would have done credit to any
iprofessional.

1900.

The great event of the season is now a thing of the
past, though the ride for the Cup must still bring many
pleasant recollections to those whose good fortune it was
to take part in what was admittedly one of the nicest rides
for the year. The paucity of entries was, however, a great
disappointment to the executive. The start was immediately
to the left of Jodhpore Thannah, and after a hurdle and mud
wall turned to the right and ran parallel with the railway
tfence. Turning to the right the course led over a
hurdle across the Gurriah Hat Road, over a mud wall,
and round to the left through the lane straight to the bund
country, but here, instead of going down the line of mud
walls, the course continued on the lane over a small drop
jump into another lane over a big drop of about five feet
-with a three-foot wall on the near side. Then an entirely
new bit of country was opened up, in which was a nice
double and another hurdle, then through a path cut
straight through the jungle behind the Durzi's busti, and so
on across the Tollygunge Lane, on the far side of which
was a hurdle, and bending to the right a mud wall ; then
•back over the lane through the new tank chota gully and
a straight run home over a water jump of lo feet with
a nice bushed wall on the take off side, the finish being
close up to the bund lane parallel with the Molla Hat
Koad.

86

The field which lined up at the call of Sir Patrick Play-
fair was, as we have said before, a small one, the heavy
weights being represented by Mr. Lamond Walker on
Islander, Captain Tyrrell on Idolator and Mr. J. W. Orr
on Blue Boy ; the light weights made a better show, and
cohiprised Mrs. Lamond Walker on Lilac, Mr. R. Pugh
on Lady Bird, Lord Suffolk on Franciscan, Mr. Stokes on
The Wreck, and Mr. Catto on Glentilt. At the word '' go"
Mr. Catto was the first away, followed by Captain Tyrrell
and Mr. Stokes, Blue Boy lying last close behind
Franciscan. This order was maintained to the Gurriah
Hat Road where The Wreck assumed the lead, making the
pace very hot. From this point as far as the in and out,
The Wreck and Glentilt led alternately, the pace still'
continuing fast. In the straight bit of going after this
jump Lady Bird came up with a rush with Franciscan on
her heels ; crossing the Tollygunge Lane and into the chota
gully Franciscan made the running, and seeing the flag
ahead both Lord Suffolk and Mr. Pugh sat down to ride.
It was one of the prettiest things we have seen this season.
Neck and neck they came on together, and then the water
jump appeared ahead. Many thought that Franciscan
would outjump Lady Bird, but on the contrary the mare
cleared it by several feet more than the grey who could not
make up the distance, and so left Lady Bird the winner
by half a length. A slight gap, and then The Wreck with
Glentilt close up passed the flags, and after this the heavy
weights put in an appearance, but some considerable dis-
tance behind the others. Coming through the chota gully
Idolator led from Islander, but Mr. Walker putting on the
pace quickly diminished the distance between himself and
Captain Tyrrell, but he had left it too late, and the latter
was declared the winner of the Heavy Weight Cup- by two
or three lengths. Mrs. Lamond Walker then followed on
Lilac, that gallant old charger Blue Boy carrying topmost
weight bringing up the rear.

The following is the official order : —

I.

Mr. R. A. C.

Pugh

on

Lady Bird.

2.

Lord Suffolk

) ,

Franciscan.

J-

Mr. Stokes

j>

The Wreck.

4.

Mr. Catto

ji

Glentilt.

5-

Capt. Tyrrell

11

Idolator.

6.

Mr. Lamond Wa

Iker

• »

Islander.

7.

Mrs Lamond W

alker

?)

Lilac.

8.

Mr. J. W. Orr

!)

Blue Boy.

o

c
o

c
o

o

87

1901.

The Calcutta Paperchase Club brought their 1900-
1901 season to a close on Saturday last, the 2nd March,
by that ever popular fixture, the chase for the Cup, or
rather, I should say Cups, as there are two given, one for
Heavy Weights and one for Light Weights.

Although it has been warming up very rapidly
during the last week, the weather on Saturday morning
was very enjoyable, the sun being hidden by clouds and
hardly shewing himself at all until the chase was prac-
tically over.

There was a very large gathering at the meet of
spectators both on horseback and on foot. Her
Excellency Lady Curzon graced the occasion with her
presence, on horseback, attended by Lieut. -Col. Baring
and Captain de Crespigny, and the members of the
Viceregal Staff most hospitably entertained the field and
spectators after the finish, under the shelter of a shainiana,
\n which choia ha :::;}' i \\2is provided, including cool liquid
refreshment most grateful especially to those that had.
been riding in and after the chase.

The field was composed of the following : —

Heavy Weight.

Major Ferrar on Protection.

Capr. Martin ,, B. P.

Mr. George Walker ,, Ice Cream.

Li^ht WeigJit,
Miss Hemingway on None Nicer,

Major Kenny ,

, Taiikar.

Capt. H olden ,

, Eldorado.

Mr. Gresson ,

, Sligo.

Mr. Stokes • ,

, Matchlock.

Mr. Deakin ,

, Colebrook.

Mr. C. Cowie ,

, Balmain.

Mr. Turner ,

, Bacchus.

Mr. (^riffith ,

, Topsail.

Mr. Piigh

, Ladybird,

In the chase for the Cup last year, there were the-
same number of heavy weights, but only five light
weights. Of the riders that competed then, only two
entered this year, Messrs. Stokes and Pugh, and of the
horses, only one, Ladybird.

This year's Cup course was chosen by Mr. Wheeler,,
to whom great credit is due for providing about four

88

and-a-quarter miles of very excellent going. From start
to finish, the course bore evidence that a very great deal
of care had been bestowed upon it.

In many places the ground had been carefully
levelled, corners cut away, several trappy little ditches
filled up, awkwardly protruding branches of trees cut
away, and at one point a new ride had been cut through
a belt of jungle to avoid an awkward bend. In the sandy
lane leading from the "hole in the wall" to the Molla
Hat Road a mail had been employed to fill in the deep
cart ruts, making the lane fairly good going for the
occasion.

Starting near Jodhpur station at the end of the
Monsoon ride, after the first hurdle the course led across
the Gurriah Hat Road, and away due west in the direction
of Tollygunge. Crossing a mud wall in the open, it
turned sharply to the right to the "gates," where a
couple of mud walls had been erected, forming a very
neat " in and out " jump. From there the line bent to
the left parallel to the Molla Hat Road. A hurdle was
jumped, and then the Molla Hat Road was crossed by
the brick pillars, and then a drop jump and bank. From
this point the direction was first towards the Old Man's
Crossing, but there was soon a slight bend to the left
which suggested the next level crossing as the objective.
But after passing the high banked tank on the left a
mud Avail had to be negotiated, and the course ran over
a raised patch of peas to the "hole in the wall," and
so into the sandy lane leading to the Molla Hat Road.
Eastwards along the Molla Hat Road for about fiftv
yards, and then up a lane to the right, past an extension
of the durzee'shws^.^^y and out to the open where a rather
big mud wall brought Topsail to grief, depriving Mr.
Griffith of the lead which he had just gained at this point.
Crossing the Tollygunge Lane a new cutting through a
belt of jungle led into a nice stretch of open country
running parallel to the bund country, the latter having
been found too heavy to gallop over. Crossing the end of
the bund country homewards the chase led close down to
the Gurriah Hat Road, then through a cutting back again to
circumnavigate a patch of jungle, past the small tank
associated with Mr. Verschoyle's name, and over the
Gurriah Hat Road in the direction of the railway, over
-a hurdle, and then bending to the left it ran parallel,

89

and to the railway, over two drop jumps and a bank,
and round a bend to the left to the finish beside Jodhpur
Than n ah.

Lord Suffolk on Jericho and Mr. Magor on Return
laid the paper, piloted by Mr. Wheeler on Hailstorm. The
supply of paper ran out about two hundred yards from
the finish, and to complete the course some of the paper
laid at the start had to be hastily gathered up after the field
had gone away.

Lord wSuffoik officiated as starter, and despatched the
field on fairly level terms. Sligo and Ladybird were the
first to show in front, but after crossing the Gurriah Hat
Road for the first time, Mr. Stokes took the lead on
Matchlock, and showed them the w^ay over the "in and
out" jump. A number of the spectators had gone on ahead
and were waiting at this point to see the field take these
jumps, and a verv pretty sight it was, as the thirteen horses
negotiated the obstacles in fairly close order. The style
shown by None Nicer and his fair rider was greatly
admired, but on the other hand one or tw^o of the other
riders shewed a considerable amount of daylight between
them and their saddles at the second of the two walls. After
crossing the Molla Hat Road, Colebrook came down
heavily at a mud wall. Mr. Deakin escaped without any
■damage, and w^as quickly in the saddle again, but Colebrook
appeared to be a bit winded by the fall, and thereafter
seemed unable to gallop in his usual style. Matchlock,
Sligo, Protection and Ladybird formed the leading division
until near the durzee's village Mr. Griffith went to the front
with Topsail. On reaching the open the first mud w^all
brought Topsail down a regular buster, but no bones were
broken. Mr. Griffith having dropped out of the chase,
Major Ferrar essayed the lead, but presently overran the
paper, and somewhere hereabouts Miss Hemingway also
got off the trail and had to give it up. Matchlock began to
shew signs of having had enough of it, and Mr. Gresson
on Sligo assumed the command, increasing the pace
consideraly, hotly pursued by Ladybird. Across the
Gurriah Hat Road, towards and parallel to the railway,
Mr. Pugh on Ladybird tried to get on terms, but in vain,
and Mr. Gresson went awav from him at the finish, passing
the post an easy winner. Ladvbird second, and then came
Major Ferrar on Protection third, giving a lot of weight to
the two in front of him.

90
The official order at the finish was as follows : —

I .

Mr. Gresscm

on

Sligo.

2.

Mr. tuiih

Ladybird.

3-

Major Ferrar

Protection.

4-

Major Kenny

Tankar.

5.

Captain Holden

Eldorado.

6.

Mr. Stokes

Matchlock.

Mr. Gresson, tlierefore, wins the Light Weight and
Major Ferrar the Heavy Weight Cup.

Mr. Wheeler officiated as judge at the finish, and in
the absence of writing paper was obliged to borrow the
nearest white topee on whicli to officially record the names
of the placed riders as they came past the post.

1902.

The Final Meet of the Season was held last Saturday
morning, and the record " gallery," which assembled to
watch the finish of the Cup chase, must have gladdened the
hearts of all paperchasing enthusiasts. The surest signs of
the condition of any sport is the amount of popular support
which it receives, and judging from the big turn-out at
Jodhpore on Saturday paperchasing would seem to be in a
very flourishing state.

Sir John Woodburn rode out to see the chase, and
the Viceroy's Staff being " At Home" for c/ioia /lazri
afterwards the company included nearly all the social
stars who the exigencies of the public service and other
attractions have left in Calcutta, so late in the year.

The first thing I noticed on arriving at the Meet was
the beam scale at which the competitors were being
industriously weighed out; the operation did not appear,
however, to be so difficult or tedious, as some supposed it
would be, and the result of the race showed the wisdom of
the new rules, which have been established this season
regarding the Cup weights. The field was brought together
in a remarkable way and the eleventh horse passed the
post within a very respectable distance of the winner ; in
past years there has often been a quarter of a mile between
the first and last horses with those intervening strung out
into an almost ridiculous line.

I rode round the course, which was not nearly so long
as last year, and could have been very little more thar^

o

c
o

CL

o

91

three and a half miles ; the going was good nearly all the
way, and a track had been made through the plough land
bv beatinp- out the bi^;- clods which are so distressincf to a
beaten horse. The course ran from the Gurriah Hat Road
down the well-known *' Bund country," and then crossing
the Molla Hat Road reached out as far as the railway by
an old but little known route. Swinging round opposite
the Red Road crossing, the paper led back across the
Molla Hat and out into the open stretch of country opposite
the "Gates;" the finish lying to the right beyond to
the Bund country. There were fourteen fences, of which
six were plain mud walls though good big ones, five were
hurdles, the water-jump, an open ditch, and a wall with
a ditch on the landing side completing the somewhat
formidable list.

Mr. Weston on Jericho and Mr. Stokes on Rufus laid
both the course and the paper.

There was some Avaiting at the start- before the paper
got round, and the air in the immediate neighbourhood
was full of excitement, suppressed and otherwise; I
recognised several familiar faces in the line of thirteen
thrusters who so dauntlessly awaited Mr. Bankier's parting
words of sympathy, but I feel that this is no place to jest
and settle myself to give you a true and solemn account of
the deadly and serious contest which then ensued.

They crashed over the first hurdle in close order and
Morocco Bound was first into the lane followed by The
Wreck, Eldorado and Ladybird. Coming out into the bund
country Mr. Warburton gave rein to his ambition and to
his gallant steed, leading the entire chase over four orrim
fences, under the admiring eyes of a sympathetic gallery.
Next to him came Eldorado, Ladybird, Bush Girl, and
Morocco Bound, with the rest in a bunch close behind,
Nancy Lee and Colebrook whipping in.

The Wreck led over two more fences, but missed the
turn off the Tollygunge Lane, letting up Eldorado,
Ladybird and Bush Girl; these three led all through the
jungle and round by the railway, the pace not being
particularly hot. On the way home a narrow lane put them
into single file and allowed the stragglers to close their
distance ; by the time the open w^as reached, the horses
had got a breather and as they spread out over the plough.
Ladybird had a bit the best of it with Bush Girl and
Eldorado close on her girths. Dunnabie, who had been

92

l3'ing- back for a lead throughout, was here set going- in
•earnest, and began to overhaul the leaders rapidly, these
four drawing- away from the second division which was
headed by Morocco Bound, The Wreck and Lucy Glitters.
Coming up to the water the crowd of spectators including a
lady with a red parasol, misled Messrs, ReesandPugh, who
started to " finish" forthwith ; the result was that the pace
over the Avater was simply terrific and resulted in a disaster
to Lucy Glitters, who under eleven stone must have had
about enough of it by that time. The sharp turn to the
right over the Ladies Wall must have been a severe strain
on the aliriost exhausted leaders, and Dunnabie turning in
behind them drew level as they swung into the straight.
Bush Girl was the first to give in, having expended her last
ounce in the desperate set-to with Ladybird over the water,
and Mr. Rees mercifully eased her ; Ladybird game as
ever struggled on desperately, but Dunnabie carried far
too many guns altogether and striding on over the plough
in fine fashion won handsomely by about four lengths, the
next horses being thoroughly beaten. Eldorado, who had
been outpaced when the leaders began to race, gradually
wore them down in the run in and despite a shocking
careless jump at the last hurdle, he managed to beat
Ladybird and secured second place. Bacchus beat
Bush Girl by a bare head and old Morocco Bound was the
same distance behind Mr. Rees sixth; Franciscan was
close up and Dundonald came next, then The Wreck
followed by Colebrook and Paleface; Nancy Lee was well
up until the last wall, which brought her heavily to earth;
fortunately neither of the two falls was really serious.

In congratulating Mr. Bell-Irving on his victory, it is
not too much to say that he rode with the greatest
determination and with excellent judgment ; the grey is by
no means an easy horse to steer round a twisting
paperchase course, and only a good man could have done it.

1903.

A MOST successful paperchase season was brought to a
•close on Thursday morning last, when the run for the Cup,
postponed from the previous Tuesday on account of the
heavy going, took place. A large crowd of spectators on
horse, foot and bicj^cles went out to see the fun, and the

a,

a,

CL,

S3

a

a

93

course was so arranged that they were able to see the start
half a mile of the course about half wcLj round and the finish,
without any trouble. Quite a feature of the day was the
number of old hands who went out to tell the present
o^eneration how it oug^htto be done. It was worth groine to
see alone, without the additional attraction of the
chase, such a gathering of the lights of other days as
■\lr. C. C. McLeod, Mr. *' Jock" Mclnnes, Mr. Anderson,
Mr. West, Mr. Butler, Mr. Justice Henderson, Mr. Lamond
Walker, Mr. " Squire" Walker, Mr. Apostolides and
Mr. Reg. Murray.

Though the air was quite clear in Calcutta, beyond
the Red Road there was a slight fog, not thick enough to
delay the start, but sufficient to make it far from easy to
pick up the paper and to make the jumps look even more
formidable than they were. Thanks to the showers of the
past few days, the going was very good, and better than^
has been the case for the Cup run for some rears.

The entries this year were fewer than usual, and w^ith
three of the entrants not starting, the field was reduced to
a dozen, of whom six entered as light weights and six
as heavy weights. Beeswing started favourite for the
Challenge Cup and Sylvia for the Heavy Weight Cup, and
for once the Prophets were right, and Mr. Pugh on Bees-
wing and Mr. Curtis-Hay ward on Sylvia are to be congrat-
ulated on their victories. Mr. Pugh especially has done
well with Beeswing who, under his management, has been
converted from a flighty cross-grained and currish performer
on a race course and over a regulation steeplechase country
into as nice a paperchaser as one could wish to ride. Her
first appearance at a Paperchase, when she put Mr. Pugrh
down twice in one morning, was not promising, but since
then skill and patience have worked wonders. On Thursday
she jumped perfectly, and carried list, over five miles of
difficult country in as bold a manner as could be wished.
The winner of the Heavy Weight Cup, Mr. Curtis-
Hay ward's Sylvia, is a small thouoh well bred mare, and
the way in w^hich she has cairied i3st. all through the
season is one more proof of the old adage that blood will
tell. She jumps in rather lisky fashion at times, but
is all heart and as bold as the}^ make them. Mr. Curtis-
Hayward is fortunate to own such a mare, and also
deserves great credit for the way in which he rode her on
Thursday.

94

Mr. AlloO must have taken a great deal of trouble over
ithe course which was as good as could be wished from
either a rider's or a spectator's point of view. It was about
five miles long over fourteen jumps. The walls had been
slightly built up for the occasion and were solid formidable
looking obstacles which permitted no liberties and had to
be jumped. The start was in the open by the Railway
Lane to the west of the Guriah Hat Road. The paper led
•over a hurdle before it crossed the Guriah Hat Road and
circled round by the station back to the road which it
followed for nearl)^ half a mile. It then turned to the west
and followed a very tricky line along a number of lanes
between raised gardens and through tree jungle with any
number of unpleasantly low hanging branches. To
negotiate this part of the course safely the horses had to be
well in hand, and it was here, unfortunately, that
Dundonald got the better of his rider and spoilt all chance
of his finishing in front by running clean off the paper and
wiping his owner off against a tree. Then came the Bund
Country. One of the jumps here — a drop which was
approached from the reverse side — was the stiffest one in
the course to get over. It must have been a good five feet
of solid earth, but coming at it round a sharp corner and
in the slight fog, it looked about seven. However, there
were no accidents there. Leaving the Bund Country the
line crossed the Tollygunge Lane^ led through the gully to
the open by the MoUa Hat Road, over a hurdle and two
walls round the corner, and over the Ladies' wall to a
finish in the Bund Valley.

Mr. Allen on Jimmy and Mr. Gresson on Skewey
carried the paper, both horses, particularly Skewey, jump-
ing perfectly. At 7-30 Mr. ''Squire" Walker lined up
the starters, Lucy Glitters and Sylvia giving some trouble.
Mr. Turner on Mascot led over the first hurdle followed by
Bush Girl and Dundonald, Sylvia lying last. Where the
paper rejoined the Guriah Hat Road were three awkwardly
placed trees and there was some bumping, in which Vixen
came off badly. Mascot still kept in front, but soon after
leaving the road, Dundonald iDolted and went past the
leaders with a rush like an express trnin. His owner could
not keep him on the paper and did not finish. Entering the
bund country, the order was, Mascot, Sylvia, Bush Girl,
Beeswing and Lucy Glitters, with the rest following in
very extended order. At the second wall in the bund

95

•country Sylvia pecked badly, unseated her rider, and all
but came down. This threw her back to nearly last, but by
the time the gully Avas reached, she was again third. In the
open by the Molla Hat Road Beeswing and Bush Girl came
up, and over the Ladies Wall Beeswing was in front, with
Bush Girl and Mascot second and third. This order was
maintained to the finish where Mr. Apostolides placed
them as foUows:^ —

Mr. R. A. C. Pugh

on

Beeswing II ...

... I

Mr. W. O. Rees

• »

Bush Girl

..'. 2

Mr. M. Turner

'J

Mascot

• • " J

Mr. T Curtis-Hayward

Sylvia

... 4

Dr. Hossack

5>

Lucy Glitters

••• 5

Mr. bring

; J

Douglas

... 6

Mr. Warburton

>>

The Wreck ...

.. o

Mr. Birkmyre

M

Drunis

... o

Mr. Iladow

))

Yarn

... o

Mr. Pike

n

Vixen

... o

Mr. Macdonald

!)

A bay

... o

1904.

The Thirtieth Anniversary of this now famous contest
came to pass last Tuesday, when an excellent race was
witnessed over the best of going and in open country,
where an excellent view of the morning's proceedino-s was
obtainable. The first Paperchase Cup was run in 1874,
though the game itself had started four years earlier, and
looking back over the old records one finds that the ground
•over which this race has been yearly fought out has been
very much the same year in year out. For instance, the first
Paperchase Cup finished at the " Red Road " — nowadays
known by the aid of a Municipal signboard as Dhakuria
Road. This year, however, for the first time on record
the scene of operations was shrfted to the sixth milestone
country, i.e., about a mile and a half beyond Jodhpore
Thannah, because owing to the recent rain all the country
round Jodhpore itself was too deep to ride.

In spite of this, however, a very excellent course was
obtained, though it was slightly shorter than the averao-e
Cup course which is anything between 4 miles and 4j/< —
the course on Tuesday must have been well under the four.
The fences were decidedly stiff ones and there were about
fourteen of them, mostly walls about 3 ft. 9 to 4 ft. high.
The pace was brisk all through and there was a fair

96

amount of grief, one of the most dangerous horses to the
chances of English Lord, who was the popular favourite,
namely, Mr. Deakin's Blue Bell, falling four fences from
home, whilst Captain Rennie's accident with Rivalry
interfered with the chances of several of them as it occurred
quite close home, in fact at the third last fence. The
attendance of the spectators was not as big as usual, though
H. E. The Viceroy's Staff were hospitably " At Home" to
chota hazriy and amongst the distinguished onlookers was
Lord Kitchener, who rode, and Lady Eraser was also
present, having driven over from Belvedere. The course
started on the left of the Gurriah Hat Road and went
out as far as the Tollygunge Lane, and then came back
again across the Road to a finish hard by the start.
There was no delay in getting the twelve competitors
down to the post, and they jumped the first two fences
in full view of the gallery ; the last three were also in
view^ to those on foot, but the mounted division were
able to see almost the entire run. The following were
the starters : Light Weights— Mr. Hadow's Yarn, Mr.
Deakin's Blue Bell, Major Maxwell's English Lord, Mr.
Ralli's Othello, Mr. Mile's Bacchus, and Mr. Wheeler's
The judge. Heavy Weights — Mr. Dring's Douglas,
Captain Keighley's Marquis, Mr. Macpherson's Rufus,
Mr. Curtis-Hayward's Sylvia, Mr. wSheriff's Kinchin-
junga. Captain Rennie's Rivalry, and Captain Brooke's
Paleface.

When the word was given, English Lord at once took
up the running and was followed by Blue Bell, Marquis,
Othello, Yarn, The Judge, Bacchus, Rivalry, Sylvia,
Kufus, Paleface, Kinchinjunga and Douglas, and they
went out of sight in to the lanein this order. There was very
little change as they went away beyond the road, English
Lord still cutting out the work, and nearest to him lay Blue
Bell, Yarn, Bacchus, Rivalry, The Judge and Othello.
At the last fence before the road, which was at rather an
awkward angle, Blue Bell came to grief, and The Judge
then worked up second, but English Lord had still a very
solid lead and was going very well. Three fences from
home Rivalry got down over a bushed wall and interfered
seriously with Svlvia, Yarn, Rufus also, Bacchus, Othello
and Marquis. The Judge made an effort to catch the
leader and came down heavily at the last fence and
Bacchus refused the second last one, so that English Lord'

97

cantered in virtually unchallenged, Othello being next
and Marquis third, the first heavy weight up.
The following was the official verdict : —

Major Maxwell

on

English Lord

... I

Mr. Ralli

i >

Othello

... 2

Capt. Keighley

jj

Marquis (H. W.)

- 3

Mr. Hadovv

»•

Yarn

... 4

Mr. Curiis-Hay

wnx

■d M

Sylvia (H. W.)

- 5

Mr. Macpherson

1

? J

Rufus (H. W.)

... 6

Mr. Dring

i>

Douglas (H. VV.)

... o

Mr. Miles

r»

Bacchus

... (ref.)

Mr. Wheeler

>5

The Judge

... (fell.)

Capt, Brooke

; »

Paleface (H. W.)

... o

Capt Rennie

•>

Rivalry (H. W.)

... (fell.)

Mr. Sheriff

5»

Kinchinjunga (H W )

... (fell.)

H.

W.-

•Heavy W^eight.

Major Maxwell's win was a very popular one, and he
rode an excellent race all through. Both he and Captain
Keighley, the winner of the Heavy Weight Cup, belong
to the i8th Bengal Lancers, and this gallant corps has
every reason to be proud of the achievements of its
representatives.

1905.

This year's race nobly sustained the traditions of its
past : there was a good field, an exciting race and a
fine finish. The fences were big and numerous, and
the course excellent in all respects, save and except
that it would be better in future years to make the fences
much wider so as to give more room. The line selected
was from a point at the foot of what is known to the paper-
chasing community as "the Bund Country," and both
start and finish were close together. After jumping a
hurdle which faced back towards the Gurriah Hat Road
and Jodhpore, the line lay right-handed across the Gurriah
Hat and out again into the open, arriving at the Bund
Country via the old drop fence. Here there were five big-
walls in succession. The line then lay over the Tolly-
gunge Lane, and again recrossed it this side of the Molla
Hat Road, and came up the plough below that road over
a couple of very stiff walls round to the right over the
" Ladies' Wall," which was the second last fence on the
course, and home to a finish over a hurdle. The course
was an excellent one for the sight-seers, and there was

R, CPR 7

98

consequei'itly an enormous crowd the stiffest part of the
-course, the Bund Country being lined on both sides by a
strong cavalry force, ^vhilst the high ground on both sides
was positively black with spectators of the Aryan per-
suasion. Our friends out Ballygunge-way, despite the
heavy hiicksheesh in which they inulct the Paperchase Fund
for damages to crops, are sportsmen to the backbone and
keenly interested in all that goes forward or backward, *
or end over end, as the case may be ! The paper was
laid by Mr. J. H. Allen, the Honorary Secretary, and
Mr. J. M. Turner, and shortly after the advertised hour
the field were sent on their journey by Mr. "Squire"
Walker, who had also seen them all weighed out. There
were fifteen runners, ten light and five heavy weights, and
the following is the correct card : —

Light Weights.

1. Mr. E. A. Watson's Snowdon.

2. Mr. G. B. Deakin's Blue Bell II.

3. Mr. D. B. Myers' Commerce.

4. Mr T. H. Wheeler's Jacinth.

5. Capt. H. N. Kolden's Lord Harry.

6. Mr. E W. Antrani's Myrene.

7. Mr. T. G Evers' Forlorn Plope.

8. Mr. J. G. Ballantyne's Fairy.

9. Mr. A. L. Butler's Lady Marjorie.
10. Mr. R. A. C. Pugh's Mistletoe.

Heavy Weights,

11. Mr. C. B. Bailey's Monsoon.

12. Dr. Forsyth's Corydon.

13. Capt. Rennie's Rivalry.

14. Mr. A. G. H. Macpherson's Rufus.

15. Capt. Lambert's Wandering Willie.

There was no time cut to waste in starting them, and
when they got off, Myrene led the field over the first
obstacle. Jacinth lying second, Rivalry, Forlorn Hope,
Lady Marjorie, Mistletoe, Corydon, Fairy, Wandering
Willie, Blue Bell II, Lord Harry, Commerce, Manson,
Rufus, Snowdon next. Forlorn Hope went up to the front
at the second fence and Jacinth was steadied. Lady
Marjorie and Myrene lying next. Fairy, Corydon,
Rivalry, Blue Bell II, Mistletoe, Lord Harry, Wandering
Willie, Rufus, Commerce, etc., next, and there was little
•or no alteration till they began to get to the Bund Country,
when Lady Marjorie Vvcnt through the field and got first
into the lane, holding a slight lead from Forlorn Hope,
Myrene and Fairy. At the first wall in the Bund Country

99

Lady Marjorie fell and Forlorn Hope shared her disaster,
jumping on top of the fallen mare but luckily missing-
Mr. Butler. This left Myrene in front with Fairy, Corydon,
Rivalry, Blue Bell II, Mistletoe, Lord Harry, Rufus,
Commerce, and Jacinth next. The fences seemed to take
a lot of doing as there were several of them pecking and
dipping at them in a most alarming manner, and Myrene
finally compounded at the big wall which is the last of the
series, and turned head over heels, but was quickly
remounted. Fairy then led with Corydon and Rivalry,
the two heavy weights next, Blue Bell and Mistletoe next,
Lord Harrv, Rufus and Commerce being all that were
close up of the rest. After turning for home the second
fence from the Tollygunge Lane turned Blue Bell over,
and Mistletoe then went up second to Fairy, and Corydon
Avas third, Lord Harry and Rivalry next. Over the second
last fence, the " Ladies' Wall," Mistletoe drew level, and
^oon had Fairy beaten, but Corydon was by no means
done with, and coming up hand over fist, looked to be
going to catch the winner at the last fence. Mistletoe,
-however, stayed it out and won by a length. The
following is the official record : —

Mr. R. A. C. Pugh on Mistletoe ... i

l)r. Forsyth ,, Corydon (Heavy)

Weight Cup ... 2

Mr. Ballantyne ., Fairy ... ... 3

Captain Holden ,, Lord Harry ... 4

Captain Rennie ., Rivalry ... 5

Mr. A. G. H. Macpherson ,, Rufus (H) .. 6

Mr. D. B. Meyers ,, Commerce ... 7

Mr. Antram ,, Myrene (fell) ... 8

Captain Lambert ,, Wandering Willie (H) 9

Mr. Wheeler ,, Jacinth ... ... o

Mr. Evers ,, Forlorn Hope (fell) ... c

Mr. Butler ,, Lady Marjorie (fell) ... o

Mr. Deakin „ Blue Bell II (fell) ... o

Mr. Watson ,, Snowdon (fell) ... o

Mr. C. B. Bailey ,, Monsoon ... ... o

While tendering INL*. Pugh our congratulations, the
big performance of the day was Corydon's. Dr. Forsyth
weighed out i3st. ylb., and to carry this weight right up to
the front all the way in a four and-a-half mile steeplechase
is a creditable achievement indeed. The old horse never
laid an iron on one of them, so the Doctor says. Mistletoe
the winner is a big four-year-old colt over-grown and by
no means at his best yet. He is bred by Grafton —

lOO

Liberty and was purchased by Mr. Pugh from Dr. R.
Spooner Hart at the beginning of the season. He must
be a rare good game bit of stuff to go as he has done half
fit, and Mr. Pugh will probably steer him to victory many
and many a time in the future.

1906.

This year the race was run over the Salt Lake country
for the first time on record, as all the rest of the Bally-
gunge country is, owing to the recent rain, practically
unrideable or at any rate far too deep to make it feasible to
go over the old " Bund Country," where so many a good
hunter has been floored and so many a good man has
sighed a sigh of relief when he finds himself landing
safely over the last of this formidable series of big
banks. It is a part of the world in which one may say
there have been a large number of " bank failures." The
venue chosen for this year's contest enabled an excellent
view of almost the entire course to be obtained and the
mounted spectators were able to gallop from point to point
and see the best of it. The distance must have been a
bit over four miles and there were about fifteen fences,
most of them big walls, also a water jump and the usual
complement of hurdles. The crowd was a large one and
H. E. the Viceroy's Staff were " At Home " after the race
to chota hazri^ the Paperchase Club also dispensing
hospitality to all and sundry. The road was crammed
with carriages and there were a couple of drags, the
Government House coach and the Bodyguard one, the for-
mer tooled by Captain Bulkeley and the latter by Captain
Holden. A party from Government House also came out,
but H. E. the A'^iceroy was unfortunately unable to be
present, much to the regret of everyone. The course was
planned and built by Mr. Pauntley, one of the Joint
Hon. Secretaries and he and Mr. Antram laid the paper.
Mr. J. H. Allen presided at the scales and the field of
twelve were weio^hed out in ofood time. The followinpf is
the list of starters : —

Light JVeig/Us.

Mr. Gresson's ... ch. anst. g. Nevermore, ii-o.

Mr. Turner's ... b. ?ust £]; Fusilier, ii-o.

Mr. Evers' ... b. anst. g. Cain, ii-o.

Mr. Myers' ... bk. aust. g. Commercej i i-o.

lOI

"Mt F. C. Halliday's ... cli. aust. g. Kuddij^oie, ll-o.

Mr. Shearme's ... b. aust. m. Little Kay, ii-o.

Mr. Macdonell's ... ]b. aust. g. Orphan Boy. ii-o.

Major Brooke's ... b. aust. m. Gaiety Girl, u-o (car. II-7),

Heavy Weights.

Mr. K. M.MacdonaKl's .. bk. aust. g. Belfast, 13-0.

Mr. Butler's ... b aust. g. Sultan, 13-0.

Mr. Eulei's ... ch. aust. g. Alarm, 13-O.

Mr. Peterson's ^ bk. aust. g. The Nigger. 13-0.

Very shortly after 7-30 a.m. they were got into line
and Mr. Pauntley gave them the office to get forward
without any delay. At the first fence Nevermore led,
followed closely by Alarm, Sultan, Cain, and Fusilier.
At the second fence Alarm led, but at the third, Cain took
command and was followed by Alarm, Nevermore, Sultan,
Little Ray, Fusilier, Orphan Boy, and Gaiety Girl next,
Commerce and Belfast next. The Nigger whipping in, and
they went on over the brick-kiln road and on to the water
jump in this order. As they turned back to recross the
road and traverse the open parallel with the Monsoon
Ride, Cain, Little Ray and Sultan were level, then Never-
more and Fusilier close up, Gaiety Girl and Orphan Boy
next ; the rest as already mentioned. The pace as they
came over this fortification was very hot indeed, and both
Sultan and Little Ray were slipping along. as if there was
only another furlong to go instead of the better part of
another mile. At the next one Sultan came down very
heavily, breaking his own neck and his rider's collar-bone.
They then swung right-handed to go on to the Monsoon
Road and there was a wall to be crossed before they got
into the lane. This one settled Orphan Boy who toppled
over but did no damage fortunately to either himself or
his owner. On the road Cain, Little Ray, Fusilier, Never-
more, and Gaiety Girl were the only ones left in it. In
the scramble to get into the lower ground again Fusilier
got knocked into a ditch and took no further part in the
proceedings. Nevermore then went up alongside Cain
and waited off him till the second last fence from home — a
wall — had been negotiated, and coming away over the
.^nal obstacle, won it in very good style by one and-a-half
lengths ; a good third.

The following is the official award : —

Mr. Giesson

on Nevermore

Light weight

... I

Mr. Evers

,, Cain

M

... 2

Mr. Shearme

„ Little Ray

»>

- 3

I02

Maj

or Brooke

on

Gaiety Girl

Light weight

... 4

Mr.

Dudley Myers

Commerce

)«

••• 5

Mr.

Halliday

M

Ruddigore

J »

... 6

Mr,

K. M. Macdonr

lid ..

Belfast

Heavy weight

... 7

Mr.

Euler

Alarm

? >

... 8

Mr.

Peterson

•t

The Nigger

>•

... 9

Mr.

Turner

Fusilier

Light weight

(fell)

... o

Mr.

Macdonnell

Orphan Boy

»>

(fell)

... o

Mr.

Butler

.,

Sultan

Heavy weight

(fell)

... o

Mr. Gresson rode in excellent style and thoroughly
deserved his success. Nevermore is a horse he purchased
late on in the season from Mr. B. Allen and had never
jumped a fence before Mr. Gresson took him in hand, so
that his success in such a severe race as this is all the more
creditable. Mr. K. M. Macdonald is a new-comer and
rode with great patience. Mr. Butler was very unlucky to
get down as he had the Heavy Weight Cup absolutely
in his pocket, but it was evident that his ambition soared
to defeating the light weights also, and who knows how
things might not have gone had Sultan stood up. He has
all our sympathy for the loss of such a good one, and
we hope that his own hurts will soon be healed.

1907.

The Calcutta Paperchase Cup has now reached its
33rd anniversary, and was this year decided over the
well-known happy bunting grounds in the neighbourhood
of Jodhpore, the scene of such a number of cross-country
battles. The race drew a capital field, the majority
of which crossed the fences in safety, and it was won by a
good sportsman. Captain H. N. Holden, of the Viceroy's
Bodyguard. This makes the sixth Paperchase Cup which
has gone to officers of H. E. the Viceroy's Bodyguard.
Captain Muir won it three times on Warwickshire Lad,
1878, 1879 and 1880, and Colonel '' Jim" Turner has won it
twice, namely, in 1889 on Britomarte, and 1897 on Aconite.
Captain Holden has had a good many tries for it, as is
usually the case with those who have aspired to victory in
this hard, rough ride, and on Eldorado, Eric and again on
Lord Harry he has made strenuous efforts to get there.
Fortune has at last smiled, as she invariably does, upon
the brave, and Captain Holden's perseverance has been
rewarded by a season of record success. He won both the
Hunters' Steeplechases at Tollygunge with Lord Harry ;;

lo;

he won a Pony Hunters' Flat with Pathfinder II, the Pony
Paperchase Cup with the same animal, and now he has^
got away with the Paperchase Cup itself on Lord Harry,.
the invincible ! It is a really good record to have put up in
one season, and has never been equalled in the annals of
Calcutta Paperchasing. Captain Holden rides a very good
race, and yesterday morning gave us yet another taste of
his quality by pursuing waiting tactics with the greatest
possible success, and yet he did not commit the fault of
Iving too far out of his ground, but was within easy striking
distance of the leaders all the way, and handy at the
crucial moment when it became necessary to finally settle
all tlie opposition. This Lord Harry did very eft'ectually
the moment he was called upon, and a good three-quarters
of a mile from home he had Cain beaten and Fairy, who was
leading at theTollygunge lane three fences from home, could
never have lasted even if she had not run off the paper. As
to Corydon, the Heavy Weight Cup winner, the 21 lbs.,,
approximate difference in the weights was more than even>
so good a horse as Dr. Forsyth's was quite able to concede.
Lord Harry is a great stayer, a magnificent jumper and--
handy as a cat, all three things which go to make a
perfect ride for this trappy country over which our paper-
chases are run. The Cup is usually a good five-mile point
with anything from 16 to 20 fences of all sorts, but mostly
strongly-built mud walls ranging from 3 feet 9 inches to
about 4 feet 6 inches, bamboo fences of the hurdle
description, natural banks, narrow raised roads, about 3
feet 9 inches to a foot from the level, and which are
particularly upsetting to a horse who does not " double"
them properly; whilst under foot the going is usually of the
roughest, plough, hard stubble land and every field is inter-
sected with narrow little bunds, which sometimes are as
high as 3 feet, but average about 1 1/2 feet to 2 feet and are very
apt to throw a horse that is not used to them out of his stride.
Then there are the lanes, narrow places with sharp and often
slippery corners, jungle paths, where the rider stands a
very good chance of emulating the hirsute Absalom ; drops
out of high fields into low ones, blind ditches, dust, heat,
and thorns, to scratch the face off you: these are some of the
little items that are encountered in a ride over the Ballygunge
country. In the Cup, of course, it is every man for himself
and the 'deil tak' the hindermost, and very often at a cramped
place, or if it is a case of getting first into a narrow lane,.

I04

you stand a fairly average chance of being sent spinning
into the middle of next week by a bump from a rival. There
is also not a great deal of room sometimes at tlte fences,
especially near the start, and you see men charging a stiff
line of walls in line with the rear rank treading the heels
off the leaders — a fall would mean 20 or 30 of them in the
small of your back for a moral certainty. So that if you
would win, you must be prepared for a real good old rough
and tumble (with the tumble left out if possible) with no
quarter from even your dearest friend. The course yesterday
was a goodj five-mile, a trifle over, if anything, as on the
map, as the crow flies, it is five, and allowing at least
another half to three-quarters for the way in which it was
ridden and the many twists and turns in the lanes we
should estimate that it was nearer six than five. It started
from the foot of the Bund Country, went up in the direction
of Gurriah Hat Road for about three-quarters of a mile,
then back over the Bund Valley, left-handed into the
Tollygunge Gardens direction, gradually working back
with many twistings and turnings to the Gurriah Hat Road,
which was crossed just above the Jodhpore station, and
recrossed just below it; then round over the Ladies' Wall
up the long strip of plough below Molla Hat and into the
Tollygunge Lane, coming back finally to the starting point.
A good sporting course with a bit of country to suit all
sorts and descriptions of horses, but entirely unsuited to
any horse that could not both jump and stay. It soon
found out the weak spots, and in the last mile there were
only three horses who looked to have any puff left in them
at all, namely. Lord Harry, Corydon and Fairy. The
gallery was a huge one, as a convenient fixture, and the
knowledge that it was a good course for spectators was
bound to draw a big attendance. H. E. the Viceroy and
Lady Minto, the Ladies Elliott, H. R. H. Princess
Patricia of Connaught, H. H. the Maharajah Scindia of
Gwalior, were amongst the distinguished crowd, and Their
Excellencies, who both rode, took the keenest interest in the
proceedings and galloped from point to point to see as
much as possible of the race. The following is the list of
starters : —

Light Weights.

Mr. Evers ... ... on Cain.

Mr. Antram ... ... ,, Myrene.

Mr. Tanner ... Ruby.

1^5

Capt. Holden ...

on

Lord Harry.

Mr. Deakin

>»

Trilby.

Dr. Hossack ...

J,

Lady Gold.

Mr. Levetus

J)

Jorrocks.

Mr. Ballantyne

... ••

Fairy.

Mr. Pierson

,,

Queen of Hearts

Heavy Wcig

hts.

Mr. Radmore ...

... on

Toastrack.

Capt. Webber ...

!>

Hijli.

Mr. Halliday ...

... .,

Ruddigore.

Dr. Forsyth ...

• ■ j»

Cory don.

Mr. D. B. Myer.s

... ,,

Sir Walter.

Capt, Fitzgerald

,,

Fermoy.

Mr. Ralli

lona.

Mr. Pauntley and Mr. Holmes laid the paper on
Ledbury and Nevermore and all the competitors were
weighed out in oood time. There was no difficulty
in getting them away on their journey, and over
the first two obstacles they were all in close order, Cain
leading with Lord Harry, Fairy, Corydon, Jorrocks and
Trilby, in line behind him, Lady Gold, Sir Walter,
Ruddigore next. The order remained unchanged over
the Bund Countr}^ and as they went single file through a
plantation. Lord Harry was lying second. Fairy, Corydon,
Jorrocks, Trilby, Lady Gold next. They then dis-
appeared from view^ and were not again seen till they
•came over the Gurriah Hat Road, and were going
towards the Ladies' Wall. Lady Gold was then missing,
liaving slipped up and rolled into a tank. Cain still
led with Lord Harry and Fairy, next Corydon, Jorrocks
and Trilby, next Queen of Hearts, Fermoy, Ruddigore
next. At the Ladies' Wall, Queen of Hearts fell and
Fairy then took the lead. Lord Harry ranged up along-
side Cain, ^vho was showing signs of the pace and
labouring badlv in his gallop, Corydon was close up
next, Trilby next, the remainder practically beaten off.
At the Tollygunge Lane, Fairy had a good lead, but at the
turn to the left, a very sharp and awkward one, she over-
shot the paper and charging into a tree, Mr. Ballantyne
Avas knocked off but quickly remounted. Lord Harry then
had his field well beaten and going on won by between 7
and 8 lengths, Corydon passing Cain going to the last fence
was second, thus for the second time on record securing
the Heavy Weight Cup — his previous victory having been

io6

in 1905, when he was second to Mistletoe. The following-
is the official record : —

Capt. Holden

on Lord Harry

r

Dr. Forsyth

.. .. Corydon(H. W.) ...

2

Mr. Evers

,. Cain

t
0

Mr. Deakin

Trilby

4

Mr. Ballantvne

., Fairy

5

Mr. Halliday

.. ,. Ruddigore (H. W.)...

0

Capt. Fitzgerald

Fermoy (H. W.)

7

Mr. Leveius

,. TorrocKS

8

Mr. Radmore

.. .. Toastrack (H. W.) ...

9

Capt. Webber

.. .. Bijli (H W.)

10

Mr. D. B, Myers

.. ., Sir Walter (H. W.) .

II

Mr. Tanner

Ruby

12

Mr. Antram

., Myrene ...

i;>

Mr. Ralli

.. .. lonalH.W.)

14

Dr. Hossack

.. „ Lady Gold (fell)

0

Mr. Pierson

,, Queen of Hearts (fell)

0

H. W

- Heavy Weight.

1908.

The PAPERCHASt: Cup of 190S was in every way
worthy of its own past, for it was a hard knock-out
light all the wav, over very rough country with plenty
of heavy fencing calculated to test the ability of the
best of hunters. The course w^as laid in the Jodhpore
country, and included all the regulation spots over
which Cups have been run and won from time immem-
orial. It started and finished at the end of the Bund
Country, took in that strip, and then went on over the
IMolla Hat Road, down to the railway and back again via
Tollygunge Gardens Lane, up parallel with the Molla
Hat Road to a finish over the Ladies' Wall and the final
hurdle. There was an enormous crowd of spectators, both
mounted and on foot, and as a very large number offences
were in full view, it was an ideal course for the gallery,
who, needless to say, took every advantage offered them
and galloped from point to point to see as much as it was
possible to see of the contest. The morning w^as a very
hot and dusty one, and there being neither rain nor dew to
lay the dust, the people riding in the chase were absolutely
choked before they got to the finish, and at least two
of the three falls which occurred were undoubtedly due
to horses not being able to see where they were going.
Ermine came down jumping off a road, and Tired Tim

107

fell at a fence where the dust was very bad. The
other accident was the worst, as Mr. Pierson got kicked in
the face when Queen of Hearts toppled over close home
when going well, and we learn that one of his cheek bones
has been broken. It is extremely fortunate that the eye
escaped, and we hope that he soon will be nimself again.
The chase was won by Captain Holden on Lord Harry,
his victory beinpf a foreofone conclusion, and the horse
cantered home unchallenged. It is the second year in
succession that Captain Holden has won this Cup on the
same horse, and he has done the same thing as regards
the Pony Cup also : two records that will take some
beating. Lord Harry is, of course, a class above the
ordinary hunter, and we place him at least a 2 stone better
horse than anything that started in yesterday's chase. No
one, however, grudges Captain Holden his successes, as he
is a straight, plucky rider, a most excellent horseman, and
he has his full share of the hard knocks in the shape of
several very bad falls in days gone by.

The performance, however, of the whole race was
Dr. Forsyth's win on Corydon for the Heavy Weight Cup.
This is the third time that the Doctor has carried away this
Cup, the first year having been 1905, when Corydon
carried i3st. ylbs., the next, 1907, with i3st. 5lbs. up, and
yesterday's success with i3St. 3lbs., and he w^as never further
away from the front than third and finished a orood second
to a first-class horse like Lord Harry, to whom he was
giving away a great deal of weie^ht. Our heartiest con-
gratulations to both winners, and it is unquestionable that
the best men and best horses got these.

The field was a good one and contrary to what we
usually see ; the Heavy Weights predominated. The
following is the list of the starters : —

Light Weights.

Capt. Holden on Lord Harry.

Mr. Pierson ,, (^)ueen of Henrts.

Cnpt. Fraser ., iJiablo.

iNIr, Hamilton ., Pretender.

JMr. Turner „ Blue Bell H.

Heavy Weights,

Mr. Haliiday on Rainbow.

Mr. Macrae ,, Arsenal.

Mr. D. Myers ,, Sir Walter.

Capt. P'itzgerald ,, Fermoy.

Mr, Radmore ,, Agamemnon

io8

Mr Winckvvoilh

Mr. Hill

Dr. Forsyth

Mr. Curiis-Havward

Ermine.
Tired Tim.
Corydon.
Pardon.

They were quickly despatched by Mr. Allen, Blue
Bell II leading from Corydon, Sir Walter, Lord Harry,
Queen of Hearts and Diablo. They came on over the
Bund Country in this order, Arsenal nearly coming down
at the second of these fences, but the rest all fenced well.
Over the Tollygunge Lane, as they passed the Slaughter
House, Ermine toppled over but was not damaged. After
this Sir Walter led with Queen of Hearts, Corydon and
Lord Harry close up to him. At a fence, a bit farther on,
Tired Tim fell and three fences from home Queen of Hearts
came down Mr. Mvers was leading- over the second last
fence, but here Sir Walter pecked very badly, making
however a wonderful recovery, though losing his chance of
the Heavy Weight Cup. Lord Harry and Corydon then
sailed aw'ay to the front. Lord Harry winning very easily.
Corydon hit the last one hard, but w^as not in any danger
of falling as he is far too clever. The following was the
Judge's verdict : —

Capt. Iloldeii

on

Lord Harry

I

Dr. Forsytli

»>

Corydon

2

Capt. FVaser

• »

Diablo

3

Mr. Turner

)f

JSlue Hell n

4

Mr. Myers

5 J

Sir Waller

5

Mr. Macrae

» "

Arsenal

6

Mr. Hamilton

M

Pretender

7

Capt. Fitzgernl

1

) »

Fermoy

S

Mr. Curl is- Hay

wai

d,.

Pardon

9

VI r. Radmore

» 1

Agamemnon

10

^Tr. Halliday

>»

Rainbow

II

Mr, Pierson

55

Queen of Hearts

(fell) '.'.

o

Mr. Hill

J)

Tired Tim (fell)

o

Mr. Winckwor

Ih

»i

Ermine (fell)

o

THE PAPERCHASE CUP.

The following is the complete list of winners and placed
horses since the date of the Cup's inauguration : —

O'lVners.

1874 Mr. Roberts ...
Mr. Fox

1876 Mr.Bartlett ...
Capt. Wallace
Mr. C. H. Moore

1877 Mr. G. W. F. Buckland

1875 Capt. Muir ...
1879 Capt. Muir
iSSo Capt. Muir
iSSi Mr. Hopkins ...

Lord William Reresford

Mr. Traill
1882 Mrs. Cook

Major Cook

Lord V/illiam Beresford
iSS^ Lord William Beresford

Mr. W. W. Petrie

Mr. Lawrie (Alston)
1SS4 Mr. D. B. Myers

Mr Learoyd ...

Mr. T. S. Anderson

1885 Mr. Alston

Mr. Murray ...
Mr. T S. Anderson

1886 Mr. Butler ...
Mr. Murray
Mr. Richardson

18S7 Mr. T, 5. Anderson

Mr. J. M. Petrie

Mr, Acworth ...
18SS Lord William Beresford

Mr. Butler

Mr. Goward ...
18S0 Capt. Turner ...

Mr. Alston

Mr. Euler

Hot ses.

Red Deer
The Marquis
... Jolly Boy
Mariner
Duchess

... I

.. 2

I

.. 2

" ■ 3

Mignonette
Warwickshire Lad

.. I

Warwickshire Lad
Warwickshire Lad

... Telegram ■

... Oliver Twist
Di \'ernon

.. I

I

... I

.. 2

>• . J

... Champion
... Claret

.. I

.. 2

Mariner

*5

Premier

1

Skipper

Pilgrim

Zulu ... \
... Handicap ... j
... Commissioner ...

Pilgrim
...' Zil ...

2

Dead

beat.

•• 3
I

.. 2

Commissioner ..
... Rabbit
... Zil ...
... Crinolette

•• 3
.. I

.. 2

• • ^

Commissioner ...

.. I

Beeswing
Blackstone
Diamond
Badminton
... Job Trotter

.. 2

.■>
.. I
.. 2

• • ■^

Britomarte

r

... Beacon
... Shamrock

.. 2

I lO

Oxuncrs,

11890 Mr. Acworlh ...
Mr. Alston
Mr. West

1891 ISIr. Kees
Mr. Butler
Mr. Taylor

1892 Mr. Kees

Mr. A. 1. Clark
Mr. L. Walker

1893 Mr W. A Dring
Lord William Beresfor
Capt. Jenkins

1894 Mi. Rees

Mr. C. C. Cnmphell
Mr. Von Schmidt
J895 Mr. C. C. Campbell

Mr. Barneil (Mr. Deal
Capt. Turner ...

1896 Col. Hunt
Mr. A. J. Pugh
Mr. C. C. Campbell

1897 Maj. Turner ...
Mr. Butler
Lord Fincastle

1898 Mr Barrow ...
Mr. Hayden ...
Mr. Martin

1899 Mr. Mayne
Mr. Barrow
Mr. G. Walker

1900 Mr. R. A. C. Pugh
Lord Suffolk ...
Mr. Stokes

1901 Mr. Gresson ...
Mr. P. A. C. Pugh
Maj. Ferrar

1902 Mr. Bell Irving
Capt. Holden ...
Mr. R. A. C. Pugh

1903 Mr. R. A. C. Pugh
Mr. Rees

Mr. M. Turner
'I904 Maj. Maxwell
Mr. Ralli
Capt. Keighley

1905 Mr. R. A. C. Pugh
Dr. Forsyth

Mr Ballantyne

1906 Mr. Gresson ...
Mr. Evers

Mr. Shearme ...

1907 Capt, Holden ...
Dr. Forsyth ...
Mr. Evers

1908 Capt. Holden
Dr. F'orsyth ...
Capt. Fiaser ...

<:in)

Horses.

Laddie

Beacon

Saxonbury

Charity

Favorite

Slim Jim

Kettledrum

The Snob

Blazes

Tantalus

Rataha

Half Pay

The Drummer ...

Miss Theo

Hard face

Miss Theo

I'^llerslie

Damages

Post Boy

Sir Gareth

^1iss Theo

Aconiie

Saturn

I si on say

Molly Kiley

Hammer and Tongs

Barney

Baal

Molly Riley

Icf Cream

Lady Bird

Franciscan

The Wreck

Sligo

Lady Bird

Protection

Dunnabie

Eldorado

Lady Bird

P>eeswing H

P)ushgirl

Mascot

English Lord

Othello

Marquis

Mistletoe

Cor yd on

Fairy

Nevermore

Cain

Little Ray

Lord Harry

Corydon

Cain

Lord Harry

Corydon

Diablo

CHAPTER IV.
The Heavy Weight Cup.

The 'Mife history" of this Cup is so interwoven with
that of the Paperchase Cup itself that it leaves very little
to be said concerning it than has already appeared in the
foregoing chapter. It is nevertheless a subject that is
more than well deserving of a chapter all to itself, for if
the would-be possessor of the Paperchase Cup has to work
hard for his prize, the man who would win the Heavy
Weight Cup has to go one better. In the list of Cups and
conditions which is published in Chapter III, those for the
Heavy Weight Cup are set out, and it will be observed
that the competitor must stand list, ylbs., and ride I3st.
Compared to the weights that hunters are compelled to
carry in Heavy Weight Point-to-Point races in England,
i3St. is not at first glance out of the way, but in considering
this matter surrounding circumstances have to be taken
into the calculation. The first important difficulty is that
the I3st. and I4st. T.-B. hunter is by no means plentiful
in India, and in fact, is extremely difficult to come by, even
at an immodest price : whereas in every hunt at home
and certainly in the " cut 'em downs," horses of this stamp,
clean-bred, and masters of their I4st. and more over big
country, are plentiful. Then, again, there is the question,
and a very serious one, of the going under foot. At
home they would think a man mad to ask a horse to
gallop and jump with I3st. odd in the saddle upon such
ground as we get in India, and one doubts whether the

I 12

brittle-hoofed English horse would have any foot left if he
did much paperchasing in India, ridden by a heavy weight.
The little matter of the difference between the tempera-
ture at home and that in which, this Cup is contested
need scarcely be enlarged upon. Every one — even your
stay-at-home Briton, who knows that India is a place where
we have our *' chutney " and "brandy pawnee," filling
in the time with a short drink called a " gin-mill" — knows
that Padgett, M. P., ivas a liar ! Then, again, there is the
question of pace to be taken into consideration, for to win
the Heavy Weight Cup, our intrepid Mr. Welter must
go far faster over that very rough and tiring 4^ to 5
miles than he would have to do if he were out pur-
suing " bowd Reynards," and under no obligation to
defeat half a score more of hard-riding i3st. men. It
will, therefore, readily be understood that the Heavy
Weight Cup of the Calcutta Hunt takes a power of get-
ting, and once got, is a thing to be uncommonly proud
of. You do not want a Cloister or a Manifesto to win it,
but you do require a horse that is as near clean-bred as
can be, and that is up to at least i4st. That he must be a
thorough master of his profession so far as jumping is
concerned, goes without saying. As will be observed
from the conditions of the Paperchase Cup, if a heavy
weight wins, he has his choice of Cups, that is to
say, he is entitled to the Paperchase Cup itself, -and the
Heavy Cup then goes to the next heavy : but if the
winner elects to take the Heavy Weight Cup, then no
one else gets the Paperchase Cup. The victory of a
heavy weight has only happened once, namely, in 1896,
when Colonel Hunt on Postboy won the Paperchase Cup,
as already described in Chapter III, and left the Heavy
trophy for Mr. A. J. Pugh, who was in the first six
and a heavy weight. Gallant Welters have often had
a great dash at the Paperchase Cup to mention two

1 1

most determined men only, the late Lord William Beres-
ford and Dr. W. Forsyth, but they have always found
that weight told when it came to a ding-dong finish
against the light-weights and have only succeeded in, on
several occasions, finishing close up second — greatly to
their credit and renown. The Calcutta Hunt is extreme-
ly proud of its welter weights, for in glancing through
the list of winners, which appears at the foot of this chap-
ter, the names of many a good man and many a good
horse occur. The Heavy Weight Cup, as a properly
organised going concern, was instituted in 1889, and the
first man to win it was Mr. Killian Euler on a very fine
chestnut horse named Shamrock. Mr. Euler's name appears
frequently in the old records as "Mr. Killian," "Mr.
Killhus" and various other "contortions" dear to the
heart of the sporting scribe of those days. Mr. Euler
was never a horseman, but he v/as a desperately hard rider,
and knew no fear. His nerve, as witness a comparatively
recent performance in tlie Paperchase Cup of two years ago,
is almost as good as ever, for he rode the course and nearly
got the cup of which he was the first winner. Our friend
hails from the Vaterland, and like many others of his
hard-riding compatriots has always been a very popular
figure in the world of sport in Calcutta. Mr. Eck, Mr.
Apostolides, Mr. Rees, Mr. Euler are representatives
of other nations, of whom Calcutta, British and insular to
the core as she is, has every reason to be extremely proud.
vShe is glad to think, we feel sure, that she has a vested
interest in such good men and true as these hard-riding
sportsmen. Shamrock was a beautiful horse and a clink-
ing good jumper. He used to score very frequently over
hurdles and in all his races almost, and most certainly in
all his wins, he was piloted by the late Mr. Lawrie Alston.
He also had, if we remember aright, the honour of carry-
ing "The Mem Sahib " (Mrs. Jim Cook) in the very last
B, CPR 8

114

•paperchase in which she rode in Calcutta, when on a return
visit just prior to her saying good-bye to India for ever
and a day. He was a golden chestnut, full of quality, and
as clever as they are made, but, like all those of his colour, a
bit what they sometimes call " high-couraged," or in other
words a trifle keen. Mr. Euler and Shamrock were
however fast friends, even if at times it looked as
though a dissolution of partnership was imminent.
The next man to win the Heavy Weight Cup was Mr.
*' Jim" Petrie, one of the two brothers who used to ride as
if they had several spare necks in their pockets. Mr.
*' Jim, " known to everyone in the old times as " Bally-
gunge Jim, " used to perform prodigies of valour on a
clever bay mare named Beeswing, and Mr. " Will " rode a
bier raw-boned brown named The Snark, and would
undoubtedly have won a heavy weight cup on him, if such
a thing had been in existence in the days when he
used to go so hard. Collard and Collard, the horse upon
which Mr. Jim Petrie won the Heavy Weight Cup, was a
rare-shaped one, and if only you put a rug over bis head,
you would think him extremely good-looking — but his
head spoilt it. It was because of it that he got his name,
for it was as long and about the same shape as a grand
piano. *' Ballygunge Jim " used to say that old Collard
=had a strong dash of the Panic blood in him, and perhaps
.he was right. He was an undeniably good hoTse how-
ever he \vas bred, a great fumper and as honest as
the day. He lasted for miany years after he won this
distinction, but now both horse and owner have,
-alas! gone to the happy hunting grounds, both regretted
sincerely by all who knew them. Dr. Taylor who won
in 1891 on Slim Jim was a hard-riding P. W. D. man,
and took to horse exercise of a serious nature late in life.
Hq ^vas — and for aught one knows still is — a man who
was absolutely dauntless and he had a real good one

Dr. W. Forsyth oa Corydon.

under him in Slim Jim. This horse was clean-bred and
he performed many a time with distinction in the hurdle
races in the open class at the Calcutta Monsoon Races.
He was another big horse and a very fine jumper.
Mr. Lamond Walker's winner in 1892 was old Blazes, a
very well known character out paperchasing, and one that
Mr. Walker bought from the late Mr. Lawrie Alston if
memory serves us aright. He was named because of his
great big white face, and on a foggy morning you could
see him coming through the gloom a long way off.

Mr. Walker rode him for many years and the horse
•never, so far as we remember, gave him a fall. In 1893, the
late Lord William Beresford won on an English hunter
•of a very nice stamp, named Ratafia. He was a beautiful
brow^n horse, showing a lot of quality, but we do not
remember how he was bred. He was good enough class
for steeplechasing and Lord William ran him at Tolly-
gunge several times. In the Paperchase Cup of the year
he was a close second to the light-weight victor Mr. W.
A. Dring, who rode Tantalus. Lord William came like
a hurricane over the last fence, but his adversary had still
a bit to come and go upon and stalled off his onslaught.
Mr. A. J. Pugh won this Cup the next year on a horse
appropriately named Taffy since the owner hailed from
Wales and, as already narrated, he got it a second time on
Sir Gareth in 1896, the year of Colonel Hunt's victory in
the Paperchase Cup. In 1895, Captain John Fuller, who
was on Lord Lansdowne's staff, won on a mare named
Queen — a very good stamp of weight-carrying thorough-
bred. In 1897, Mr. "Squire" Walker scored a most
popular win on Marguerite, a victory he repeated in 1899
on Ice Cream, certainly one of the nicest paperchase horses
of this class that we have ever seen out and a perfect
gentleman to ride. Mr. Martin of the A. V. D. had won
in the intervening year 1898 on a chestnut gelding named

ii6

Barney, who was one of the slow and sure order. In 1900,.
Captain Tyrrell, who was on the Commander-in-Chiefs
staff, won on Idolator, a horse that is still to the fore in
Calcutta, and now and again carries Mr. William Dods
out hunting with his cousin's foxhounds, and a mighty
nice jumper he used to be. In 1901, a hard-riding gunner
officer, Major Ferrar, won on a remarkably fine stamp of
horse named Protection who had plenty of speed and also
in that year won the Hunter's Steeplechase at Tollygunge,
ridden by Mr. Harry Stokes. Major Ferrar afterwards took
this o"ood Australian horse home and hunted him for several
seasons. In 1902 there was no Heavy Weight Cup as
no one riding the qualifying weight finished in the first
six. It was the year Mr. Bell-Irving won the Paperchase
Cup on Dunnabie. In 1903, Mr. Curtis-Hay ward scored on
Sylvia, a thoroughbred mare who was often very rash and
gave her courageous owner a tremendous number of falls,
but stood up over the Cup course alright. Captain
Keighley, who is still with the Bodyguard, won in 1904, on
a great raking chestnut named Marquis, and the following
year saw the " arrival " of Dr. Forsyth and Corydon who
have between them put up the biggest record, in connec-
tion with this event that has ever been achieved. To win
it three times is a good enough record, but to win it on
each occasion after making a big fight with the winner ot
the Paperchase Cup a still greater one. Mr7 N. M.
Macdonald of the Bank of Bengal ''intervened" in 1906,
but in 1907 and last year the indomitable pair — The Doctor
and Corydon — won after the hottest of hot fights. If this
book could include the record of season 1908-9, we have
no doubt that we should have the privilege of placing yet
another notch in this good horse's score ! This, however,
will be left to the historian of the future when the time
arrives for the next edition of this already very bulky
tome. All that now remains to be done is to publish the

117

following table, a perusal of which may, doubtless, recall
many an incident that the present scribe has inadvertently
missed out : —

Winners of Heavy Weight Cup.

1889 ... Mr. K. Euler's

1890 ... Mr. J. Petrie

1 89 1 ... Mr. Taylor

1892 ... Mr. L Walker

1893 ... Lord Wm. Beresford

1894 ... Mr. A T. Piigh

1895 ... Capt. Fuller

1896 ... Mr. A. T. Pugh

1897 .. Mr. G. Walker

1898 ... Mr. Martin

1899 ... Mr. ft. Walker

1900 ... Capt. Tyrrell

190 1 ... Major Ferrar

1902 ... No Cup presented

1903 ... Mr. Curtis- Hay ward

1904 ... Capt Keighley

1905 ... Dr. Forsyth

1906 ... Mr. N. M- Macdonald
11907 ... Dr. Forsyth

J 908 ... Dr. Forsyth

... Sha'orock.

... Collard and Collard.

... Slim Jim.

... Blazes.

... Katafia.

.. Taffy.

... Queen.

... Sir Gareth.

... Marguerite.

... Barney.

... Ice Cream.

... Idolator.

... Protection.

... as no H. W. in first six.

... Sylvia.

... Marquis.

... Corydon.

... Belfast.

... Corydon,

.«. Corydon =

CHAPTER V.

The Average Cup.

So much has already been said concerning the con-
ditions and the nature of the Cup contests in the chapter on
the Paperchase Cup itself, that it leaves us very little else
in the present one than the task of a running comment
on the bare records of the Average Cup. The horse
that is wanted for the Paperchase Cup is very often
the same stamp of animal that a man must have for
the Average Cup — though not always ; for, in its way, the
latter is a trophy that takes a great deal more winning. The
conditions are that the same horse must be ridden by his
owner all the way through the season, and when it is
considered that there are usually about a dozen chases —
equal to a bucketting steeple-chase once a week, in which a
horse has to be ridden well up to the front — it will be
realised that to get this Cup the horse must be a stout
and a sound one, and the sort that does not know how
to fall. How many race-horses would come out once
a week and gfo a strenuous four to five mile chase over
stiffish obstacles, and extremely hard, rough countr}^,
and survive to tell the tale ! Three days a fortnight is
not supposed to be too much to ask of a hunter at home,
but the conditions are so widely different between India and
England that it is scarcely possible to draw any parallel.
The average hunting man would call us all lunatics to
gallop and jump on the ground that we do here, and at
home they would not expect their horses to last a week, let

119

alone three to four months hard at it, as ours are expected
to do out here. The Average Cup winner, therefore, must
be a good-footed and good-legged one, a horse that will
carry a fair weight and jump a fair fence, a good doer
at home, a brave hero in the field ; otherwise he is of no
manner of use for the enterprise. As a rule, we find that
it is the handy, clever sort, possessing no great pace, but
at the same time foot enough to get into the first qualifying
six each week that wins this Cup, and not your race-
horse. The galloper is an excellent machine to have when
it is all fairly open sailing, as it sometimes is in a Paper-
chase Cup, but for an all-round, general utility, sort for
obtaining the Average Cup, give us the horse that will
turn in his own length, will crawl where he cannot jump
and yet will stride at and fly a good big fence when he is
asked to do so. The pulling, rowdy, impetuous sort is
not the oyster for this contest, and as we glance through
the list of the winners, which we print at the foot of this
chapter, we do not see a single horse amongst them off
whom at a pinch it would not have been possible to play
polo. Another noteworthy fact also is that the majority of
the winners have been little ones, for the big sort have
only scored on rare occasions. Bannagher was a horse
about 15-3, Kettledrum ditto, Eau de Vie probably a bit
more. Lilac 16 hands, Monte Carlo just under that. Rivalry
and Diablo also about that height ; but all the rest have
been between 14-3 and 15-2 at the outside — some of them.
absolute ponies.

The conditions of this Cup have been set out in
the third chapter, and it is, therefore, unnecessary for
us to recapitulate them here, the only point to be noted
concerning them now being that they do not permit of
an owner's qualifying a second horse specially for the
Paperchase Cup, and going for the Average Cup as
well, as the rules now insist that the Paperchase Cup horse

I20

must be ridden a good few times by the owner and do not
permit him to be qualified by any G. R. This we think
is a sensible provision and blocks the way of the '' pot
hunter," — always a desirable thing. Many people held
when the Average Cup was first introduced that it was a
mistake, because it induced men — and fair women also — to
ride harder than ever ; but as the thrusting brigade will go
whether there is a cup or whether there is not, it was
thought just as well to allow an institution that added a
considerable amount of interest to the season, to continue.

If we set down all the many stories of deeds of derring-
do performed at various times by various people who
have made a big effort to get this Cup, we should cause
this already far too corpulent volume to swell to positively
indecent dimensions, and we might also, we fear, justly
incur our publisher's ire and business-like displeasure by
adversely influencing the sales !

Some things are too deeply tragic for tears and it is
often the best stories that must remain untold !

If this chapter were written by the Paperchase viali^ it
would be vastly entertaining, for he is a person whose
candour often verges upon brutality. He and his mother
— who we believe dies, on an average, once a year when
the malt's banking account is rather low and requires
replenishing by a solatium for his grief out of the Paper-
chase Fund — could give us more of the real " meat " of
the history of Paperchasing than the present scribe, or
anyone else, could, or would, be so venturesome as to do !
He could tell us how '* Brasspot Saheb ka Juggah " came
by it's name ; how once he saw " Epistol Sahib ^zW«, girta,
girta — Wall Wahgirgia! " he could tell us exactly what
are the bad words that Lat Sahibs^ who swarm out on
coaches to the Xmas meets, use when they "fallarf" ; he
could tell us how '' Variskile Sahib" looked when he
came out of th^jheel hanging round Collard and CoHard's

@^

Paperchase Dinner Menu, 1892.

S5^@^

i

121

fieck ; he could even (we believe, but we do not know) tell
us what ladies say in their best '' velvet " voices when they
cross one another at a fence, or do a bit of riding-off in a
greasy lane ! We do not say that we are not in possession
•of a orood deal of this information o^leaned at various times
from the viali and his aforesaid mother : all that we say is
that we doubt the wisdom of using it. The most merciful
ithing is we think, on more sober consideration, to draw a
veil over the many ''tragedies," and let them wait until
the Paperchase mali publishes his book, or reprints his
speeches made at the annual Gurriah Hat Paperchase
Dinner given to the " peasant farmers," or otherwise those
•over Avhose land we pay to ride as each season comes
round. We intend to suggest it to the viali that he brings
out a book something on the lines of The Dolly Dialogues ^
as a sequel and a supplement to this bare record which
ive now present.

The Average Cup proper came into existence in 1888,
although, as recorded elsewhere, the idea originated some
years before this but did not fructify. It has, therefore,
now almost reached its twenty-first birthday and seems
to be as lusty an institution as it was at the time of its
birth and to be the incentive to as much hard-riding- as
of old. The first winner of this Cup was a gentleman who
is still in Calcutta, Mr. A. L. Butler, the pilot of Rabbit,
Avinner of the Paperchase Cup of 1886, and who, in those
•days, was as hard a man as ever got on a horse. Bad
accidents, bad luck, and often bad horses never stopped
•our friend, and, as mentioned in a previous chapter, it was
not so very long ago that he was going very close to
winning the Heavy Weight Cup, when his horse came
•down, broke its neck and smashed Mr. Butler's collar-
bone. Few of us who are nearing that ccBsura in middle
age which Mr. Jorrocks has aptly termed " an easy 'arf
'underd " will find ourselves with nerve as undiminished

122

and seat as firm as Mr. Butler's. He was one of the ^'stars'*
in the racing firmament in the old days, and was a rattling^
good man between the flags in times when the G. R.
Brigade was very strong indeed. He has always been keen.
on " the great game " and usually has something pretty
good to carry his well-known black and white jacket. He
is the present owner of one or two promising chasers and is
never so pleased as when a horse of his scores a win between
the flags. An ex-steward of the C. T. C, a Member of
the Paperchase Committee for many years, and a keen
supporter of all forms of sport in which the noble animal
takes a part, ''Grandpa" is a man of whom Calcutta
sportsmen may well be proud. Badminton, the horse on
which he won the first Average Cup, was once known as
Toby, and was owned by Mr. Orrell, '* Max O'Rell," as
he is known as in the old records, and subsequently by
Mr. Butler who afterwards sold him to Mr. Prophit, and he
used on various occasions to be ridden with great success
and skill by '* Mr. Jerry. ' Badminton was a compact little
bay horse that could do everything almost, except play the
piano, and he would have had a great try at that also
we verily believe, if he had at any time been put to it I
He was the beau ideal of a horse for the Average Cup ;
handy, a good jumper, excellent mouth and manners, and
quite fast enough to go well up to the front and win out-
right, when there were no Diamonds or other big fish of
that description in the field. He was a regular ''cut and
come again " little sort, and, as will be seen from his record
published in the Appendix, he was home first a very great
number of times the year he got the Average Cup, and in
other seasons also. In this year he put up a great race
for the Paperchase Cup against Lord William Beresford*s
Diamond, but size and stride told at the end of that long
and tiring journey and he had to be content with second
place. Beaten he was but certainly not disgraced !

u

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12

The winner of 1889 was another well-known customer
of the old days, the late Mr. A. O. Acvvorth's Blackstone—
a very well-named horse for a barrister to own, reminiscent
as the name is of those voluminous Commentaries written
by that great and erudite man. If only one could repro-
duce Blackstone's *' commentaries " on Paperchasing, we
should indeed have an entertaining record ! Blackstone
was as knowing as a wagon-load of monkeys, and we
believe never once put Mr. Acworth down ! He was a very
ordinary little' black Australian to look at, and probably his
sort would not live with them the pace the horses of
to-day go : but he was an honest, plodding sort, that never
put a foot wrong, and had always an extra leg to spare
when there was a bad place. He and Mr. Acworth were
devoted to one another and thoroughly understood one
another's idiosyncrasies. Mr. Acworth had many a try
to get the Paperchase Cup on Blackstone, but the
little horse never had pace enough for that adventure,
and his owner finally bought Laddie with which
horse he was, as already recorded elsewhere, in the end
successful.

In 1890 Mr. W. O. Rees, who was then a new-comer
to Calcutta, won on that *' notorious character" CoUard
and Collard, a horse whose name figures more than
once during this history of paperchasing. He was a
great old customer and a strong persevering sort. We
think that bar his old fiddle-head he was one of the best-
shaped horses we have ever seen. Grand shoulders, a
great long rein, quarters that would lift him over a township
and he was let down behind like a grey-hound. He was far
from slow and in the between whiles, when there was no
paperchasing, used to carry a silk jacket with much success.
Mr. Rees was, and is, one of the hardest and most daunt-
less horsemen we have ever had in Calcutta, " a good 'un
to follow, a bad 'un to beat." He is a man we would far

124

sooner dine with any day than fight, a pocket edition
of Hercules and quite one of the "show" men of the
Calcutta Hunt. Like many another of us, however, he has
passed his salad days! ''Alas .... that Youth's
sweet-scented manuscript should close!" and that like
Faust our beaux joiirs should inevitably have their
period !

In 1891, that cheery sportsman, Mr. Stuart Verschoyle,
won this Cup on Bannagher, a horse that suited our friend
a great deal better than old CoUard and Collard which horse
he once owned. " Mr. V." hailed from the Emerald Isle
and his always exceedingly bright eye was brighter than
ever when he landed his nice bay Bannagher a winner of
this event. Mr. Verschoyle is now in London, but no
doubt he often wishes himself back again in the old
Ballygunge country where he spent so many happy hours
of his Indian existence. Bannagher stood about 15-2^ to
15-3 and was a nicely-bred, dark bay Australian showing
plenty of quality and a very nice horse to ride. He
was a clever jumper, and, like most of the others who
have won this Cup, very handy and nippy. The winner
of 1892 was another well-known equine character, Mr.
A. S. Barrow's Flatcatcher, the only entire that has ever
won a Cup in the Calcutta Paperchases. He was a very
temperate little horse and undoubtedly one of the very
finest fencers that ever was seen out. He was' a clean
thorough-bred, though we have no record of how he
was bred. He was first owned by Mr. G. B. Paris and
then by Mr. Dudley Myers and last of all by Mr. Barrow,
and he died some time later full of years and of honours
at the green old age of something like 20 !

In 1893, Mr. W. O. Rees scored his second win in
this event on a horse named Kettledrum, a very excellent
type of paperchaser, and the winner of the previous year's
Paperchase Cup. Kettledrum was not a small one like

o

I

I

125

most of the other winners, but he was of the sort that
never made a mistake and he and Mr. Rees scored
many victories in company, both out paperchasing and
between the flags at the Monsoon Races. In 1894 and
1895, the United States in the person of ]\Ir. C. C.
Campbell were "all over us," and Miss Theo, who was
a mare that at one time was almost unrideable, simply
made hacks of everything that went out. Mr. Campbell
was not a great artist in the pigskin, but what he lacked
in knowledge he more than made up for in pluck and
dash. He and the little bay mare were — literally — in-
separable, and they had a great time of it in the years in
which all these brilliant victories were scored. Miss Theo
was another small one — scarcely over 15-1 and of the
compact handy sort. She w^as absolutely clean-bred and
Mr. Campbell got her from Dr. Spooner Hart, who let
her go comparatively cheap because she w^as such a vixen
and most uniractable. Mr. Campbell, however, seemed to
exercise a magnetic influence over her, foi'she became quite
a reformed character and quite obliterated the memory of
her lurid past by the exemplary manner in W'hich she
behaved, when under the ''protection" of the hard-
riding American. The year 1896 saw a lady for the first,
but by no means the last time successful in this event,
and Mrs. Lamond Walker won on little Dick — a horse
whose exploits in the Ladies' Cup are referred to in the
chapter dealing with that interesting event. Mrs. Walker
has won this Cup three times, a record that has not been
equalled in the whole history of the event, and bearing
in mind all that this entails, it is an achievement of which
she may be very justly proud. Mrs. Walker learnt to
ride in India, and her first horse of any note was a big
bay named " Benjy, " a great customer over a fence
and one that suited his courageous little mistress
immensely well. " Benjy, " we think, may justly lay

126

claim to having been instrumental in making Mrs. Walker
Avhat she is to-day, one of the best light-weight horsewomen
in India. If in the equine Nirvana the contents of
this book ever become known, we hope good, honest,
old "Benjy's" heart will be rejoiced to read that the
historian has not forgotten him. May be we shall, if the
reviewers cut up this book, be some time consoled by a
*' horse" whisper coming to us through the fog of a
paperchase morning saying, *' Never mind — you did your
best and I, Benjy, am pleased with you — and your
nonsense I"

Mrs. Lamond Walker's other two successes Avere in
1900 on Lilac, a big brown mare entirely schooled and
taught her business by her owner, and in 1906 on
Detective, a little thorough-bred horse who was at one time
far from a safe conveyance and by no means "anyone's
ride." Mrs. Walker, however, took immense pains with
him and in the end turned him into a first-class paperchase
horse. The horse is still to the fore, and though in-
exorable Time has taken his toll, he still, we hope, will
carry his plucky owner well to the front for some time to
come. In 1897, Mr. R. H. A. Gresson, Avho was then, and
still is, one of the best of the Corinthians, won this Cup on
a big chestnut mare named Eau de Vie, probably so-called
because she was rather of the same tint as the old brandy
of Justerini and Brooks ! She was a big, powerful mare
up to a bit more weight than Mr. Gresson wanted, but
a good sort, though at times none too careful. She was
eventually sold to Mr. T. H. Wheeler, and she came to a
violent end when being ridden by him in a Paperchase
Cup. In 1898, Mrs. Barrow won on Molly Riley who
was not the easiest thing in the world to steer over our
cramped Ballygunge country and with a less capable
pilot would probably never have got there. In 1899, there
was no Cup, as it was discontinued for a season with a

u

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c
o

127

view to stopping the " racing, " which meant that the
way some of them went was getting a bit too reckless.
It had no real effect, and so next year the Cup was
reinstated. If there had been a Cup in 1S99, a lady
would probably have won it, but the records were not
■carefully kept and cannot therefore during that season be
taken to be absolutely reliable. In 1900, as already
recorded, Mrs. Lamond Walker won it for the second time.
In 1901, Mr. G. B. Deakin, who had not had much luck
in these contests and had several times made a big effort
to win the Paperchase Cup, got the Average Cup on a
very nice horse named Colebrook. He was another of
your " steady and stolidy, jolly-bank-holiday " every-day
horses, and he carried his light-weight owner with much
success throughout the season. In 1902, Mr. Gresson
won for the second time, his horse in that year being
a beautiful grey named Monte Carlo. Our photographic
artist has done him fair justice, as those who knew the
horse will admit. He was a perfect ride, and as clever and
tractable as could be wished ; the acme of a light weio-ht
blood hunter. In 1903, Dr. W. C. Hossack was the
successful candidate on a little chestnut mare named
Lucy Glitters. She was a thorough-bred mare and was
originally imported by Mr. R. B. Lamotte, who sold her
to the Earl of Suffolk. His Lordship hoped that she
might measure 14-2 and so be a little gold-mine for
pony steeplechases, but she just missed it and eventually
<:ame into the possession of Dr. Hossack, of whom she
took great care, never once, we believe, giving him a
fall. In 1904, Captain Frank Maxwell, V. C, won on
English Lord. This horse was an Australian and not
an Englishman as his name rather suggests. He was
a clinker — there is no other word for him — and one
of the best-looking ones that has ever been seen out
paperchasing. He was so handy that you could have

128

played him at polo, and was a beautifully broken and
mouthed one. His success, however, was no little aided
by Captain (now Major) Maxwell who was a most
finished horseman, and was at that time on H. E. the
C.-in-C.'s staff. In 1905, Captain Rennie, of the 19th
Hussars, won on a big plain-looking horse named Rivalry.
He was a wonderfully consistent performer, and as Captain
Rennie rode every ounce of i2st. ylbs., we believe, if not
a bit more, he was giving away a good deal of weight
to the majority of the field. Mrs. Walker's win on Detec-
tive in 1906 intervenes next, and the last two winners
have been Mr. Ballantyne on Fairy in 1907, and Captain
H. L. Fraser on Diablo in 1908. Mr. Ballantyne is still
with us, and is a very plucky rider and a keen supporter
of the hunters' races both at Tollygunge and Calcutta.
He always goes as straight as a die, and he and old Fairy,
who is still far from past her best, are the very closest of
friends. We shall, no doubt, see them in successful part-
nership for some time to come. Captain Fraser who won
last year, had a tremendous battle with Captain Fitzgerald
who rode Fermoy for this Cup, and up to almost the last
chase the chances seemed very level. Then Fermoy made
a mistake and fell, and Captain Fraser adding yet another
point to his score the week after that, eventually won with
a small margin. That Captain Fraser deserved his win
no one can deny, for he rode very hard and with excellent
nerve. On one occasion he got a fall two fences from
home, but picked himself up and managed, even then, to
finish second. Captain Fraser is a son of our late
Lieutenant Governor, Sir Andrew Fraser, and was formerly
in the loth Hussars, but has now gone to the Indian Army
and joined the 33rd Cavalry. His good horse Diablo, on
whom he once won the Rawal Pindi Grand National, is
certain to be heard of again ere long in soldiers' steeple-
chases, at any rate we sincerely hope so ! This brings us

129

to the end of a very long chapter, and there remains
nothing but the winning record to be appended.

1888.
1889.
1890.
1S91.
1892.

1894.
i8qs.
1896.
1897.
1898.
1899.
1900.
1901.
1902.
1903.
1904.
1905.
1906.
1907.
1908.

AVERAGE CUP WINNERS.

Mr. Butler's

Mr. Acworth's

Mr. Rees'

Mr. Verschoyle's

Mr. Barrows

Mr. Rees'

Mr. C. C. Campbell's

Mr. C. C. Campbell's

Mrs. L. Walker's

Mr. Gresson's

Mrs. Barrow's

No Cup

Mrs. L. Walker's

Mr. G. B. Ueakin's

Mr. Gresson's

Dr. Hossack's

Capt. ^]axwel^s

Capt. Rennie's

Mrs. L. Walker's

Mr. Ballantyne's

Capt. Eraser's

Badminton.

Blackstone.

Collard and Collard.

Bannagher.

Flatcatcher.

Kettledrum

Miss Theo.

Mi>s Theo.

Dick.

Eau de Vie.

Molly Riley.

Lilac.
Colebrook,
Monte Carlo.
Lucy Glitters,
English Lord.
Rivalry.
Detective.
Fairy.
Diablo.

B, CPR

CHAPTER VI.
The Ladies' Cup.

*' Now I wish I were the bridle in the fingers of my idol,

" Now I wish I were the bonny steed that bore her through the run !"

Whyte Melville.

We think our readers will agree with us that we have
now arrived at the real "rasper" of this adventurous
journey, and that we may be forgiven if we confess to a
feeling of something approaching nervousness and trepid-
ation as we take a fresh pen and give it a preliminary
drink of ink, hoping the while that this will not, as is the
case with race-horses when given a bucket of water
before a race, cause it to stop half way and flounder hope-
lessly ! A great — we might almost say the greatest —
authority upon horses and ladies — Mr. John Jorrocks —
has said that there is nothing so uncertain as scent
'^'cept a woman " — he has also ungallantly expressed the
opinion that " wimmen are werry weary warmints !"
Although we may find it possible to subscribe to the first
of these two quoted opinions, we do not go so far as to
entirely endorse the second ! We pride ourselves that
in Calcutta, at any rate, the age of chivalry has not
passed, whatever it may have done in Handley Cross !
It will, however, be readily understood that with the
opinion of such a connoisseur before us we feel that a
heavy weight of responsibility rests upon us in attempting
to do justice to the matter in hand in this present
chapter : if we say too much, we may offend : if we say

131

too little, we may justly incur the censure of the male
members of the Calcutta Hunt, who are notorious as being
at once the most susceptible and gallant body of sportsmen
on the face of the globe. Would that in our present case
we possessed the capacity of the Tuscan poet for saying
the right thing at the right moment, or that of his
Apulian confrere^ one Flaccus, better, and more generally,
known as Horatius, for graceful versification, and odes
''Ad Lydiam," ''Ad Chloen ^' ! and Ad— many others!
For it is borne in upon us that bald prose, such as this is
totally inadequate in such a situation as that in which we
find ourselves. Could w^e discourse in dactylic hexameters
or Iambic trimeters, we should feel ourselves less fore-
doomed to a fall than we do at present.

Odi profanum vulgus et arceo :
Favete Unguis : carmina non prius

Audita Musarum Sacerdos
Virginibus puerisque canto !

We have, as our erudite readers will no doubt at once
discern, been forced after all to get Horace to break
the top-rail of the first fence for us, and no better or more
polite person, hien entendu, could we have selected to ask
our friends to " lend us their ears."

Diana, one is credibly informed, hated all men — bar one
the devoted, the beautiful, the hard-riding and intrepid
Hippolytus. It is usually this way — it is always i,ooo to
3 bar one even with the stoniest hearted ones ! The Dianas
of Ballygunge differ from their patron goddess, we hope,
and, since no authoress has come to our aid to write this
chapter, this little difference may prove to be our salvation.

The Ladies' Paperchase Cup, the most unique event
in the sporting records of, possibly, the entire world dates
back to 1893, the first Ladies' Paperchase Cup having
been run on the 15th of March of that year, and since then
it has become a regular and well-established fixture. The
Ladies of the Calcutta Hunt have numbered amongst

132

them some very first-class performers indeed, and from
the time when ''The Memsahib " (Mrs. ''Jim" Cook)
rode in and won our big Cup outright, down through the
days of Mrs. K. C. Sanders and Mrs. Reg. Murray, to those
of Mrs. Barrow, Mrs. Walker, Miss Prophit, Mrs. Perkins
tolastyear's winner. Lady Violet Elliot, there has always
been some one amongst the " spindle " sex to whom we
can point with pride and truthfully assert would hold her
own in any country in the world. We have always felt
that the reputation of the " Calcutta Hunt" for hard and
straight riding would be entirely safe, even if it were
only left to be defended by the lady members, for the
winning list includes the names of some particularly
brilliant horse-women, than whom it would be difficult
to find any more finished or courageous if we searched
the world over. It is said that upon one occasion a certain
hard-riding soldier arrived at the finish of a paperchase
and imagined he had won, till he saw a lady getting into
her dogf-cart, when he said " How did you get here?" " Get
here?" she said, "why I and (naming four other ladies)
have been here ages and our horses have all been sent home,
and so far from your having won, you are only sixth —
and a bad sixth at that ! ! " The Dianas had entirely given
the rest of the field the slip ! !

The distance of the Ladies' Cup is usually between
2^ and 3 miles, and the fences, although not so
severe as those built up for the big Cup, are no
make-believe obstacles but take jumping. The race
is always a fast one from start to finish, and we
confess to having on occasion felt our heart stand
still to see three or four of the fair competitors racing
abreast over the concluding obstacles, steeple-chasing
pace, and not a thought of a pull or a "steadier,"
even when an extra big obstacle looms up out of the
fog ! To win most jump races one has to treat the

M

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last two obstacles perhaps, with very scant courtesy,
and there are times when it is necessary to ride at them
as if they were not there at all. This is all very well for
men, who have a bigger chance of getting clear in the
event of a fall ; but it is different when the ''jockeys"
happen to be ladies, and one recognises that a roll means
that the crutch of a side-saddle may play a very prominent
part in the damage department. And yet there have been
fortunately very few serious falls in this race and no fatal
ones. Lady Jenkins once broke a collar bone and Mrs.
Collin some ribs, and Mrs. Lamond Walker, if we re-
collect, has not come off scatheless ; Miss Hemingway
also was a victim one year, but no one has ever been
really seriously injured. This we think is a matter for
congratulation, for it has not been " for want of trying " !
The first Ladies' Cup was, as we have already stated,
run on the 15th March 1893, and was inaugurated by Mr.
'G. W. Walker, who was the anonymous donor of the
trophy mentioned in the account of the race which we now
propose to set out, for it may be of more than passing
interest, and forms a convenient preamble to the short
history of the Cup and its winners which we have below
endeavoured to present to our readers. ''The Man on
the Bay," writing in the Asian of the 17th March 1893,
gives the following account of the race : —

A LADIES' PAPERCHASE IN CALCUTTA.

Calcutta may fairly claim to be original in this idea, as I do not know uf
any case in which a point to point race or a paperchase has been ridden by
a field entirely composed of ladies. Some time back one of the home papers
did chronicle some hunt races, in which a few ladits took part, but then it
was only in the wake of the sterner sex. In this instance the " inferior ? "
half of our hunt cut out their own work independent of any male assistance,
and right well they did it.

The function was supposed to be a profound secret, so of course the
whole town turned out — the profounder the secret the greater the number of
people who know about it. It was originally fixed for Tuesday, but the rain
coming down necessitated a postponement till yesterday (Thursday).
I he prizes were a handsome gold bangle to the first lady up, and a very
smart riding whip to the second, the former presented by an unknown bene-
factor whose name cannot be divulged, and the latter by Mr. Justice Norris.

134

The following ladies declared to start: Mrs. Lamond Walker on Othello^
Miss King on Dinah. Mrs. Barrow on Flatcatcher, Mrs. Norman on Marigold,
Mrs. Beverley on Kate, Mrs Sanders on a brown, and Miss Healy on a
black, the conditions being that ladies should ride bond fide paperchasers,
no matter whether they were their own property or not. The course
selected was an open one over the Salt Lake country, the point of departure
being the old place just on the further side of the Jodhpore Station over a
flight of hurdles placed in the ploughed field to the right of the Monsoon
Road.

The morning was a foggy one and the start was therefore somewhat
delayed, but shortly after the advertised hour our M. F. H. (Mr. G. W.
Walker, Ed.) and Captain Grimston got away with the paper and were
accompanied on their journey by H. E. Lord Roberts on a chestnut and Miss
Roberts on Rabbit (formerly the property of Mr. A. L. Butler and the
winner of the Paperchase Cup of 1886, Ed.). When the signal for
departure was given, Othello was at once taken to the front and led from
Marigold and Kate ; Dinah and Flatcatcher, who cannoned badly over the
first fence, coming next in order. The paper bore straight away for the
open over a wall which was placed just on this side of the jungle that skirts
the Salt Lakes. At this fence Matcatcher refused owing to his being crossed
by one of the others, but was quickly set going again, and the lot were soon
in full cry over the open pointing straight for the ditch and wall near the
jungle clump. A flight of hurdles intervened and ove^- them and across all
the open old Othello had the best of it, the next in order being Marigold.
Dinah, Kate and Flatcatcher, the rest whipping in. At the ditch Dinah
refused and took Flatcatcher out with her Othello getting a still bigger
advantage and Marigold and Kate going on second and third respectively ;
Dinah and the black, who manaj.'ed it at the second attempt, in hot pursuit
in rear.

A thumping big wall next had to be negotiated, and Calcutta had need
to be extremely proud of its ladies in the way in which they did it. Every
one of them rode excellently and the form they showed was very first class
indeed. The fences were jumped and ridden at in a way that it would teach
a good many of us a lesson in the art to witness. After the big wall came
some more hurdles, and further on another wall, which Mrs. Sanders' mare
struck very hard. Flatcatcher and Dinah now began to close on the leaders,
and as they emerged from the lane on to the Monsoon Road, which they
crossed, this pair got level with Othello and Marigold, who with Kate in
close company had had the best of the fun hitherto. Over the next flight of
hurdles the first five were all in a cluster, and skirting the Screw Pines they
went right over some more hurdles and then shaped left for a wall. Here
Flatcatcher was set going in earnest, and he and Dinah singled themselves
out from the rest and came over the last fence, a hurdle with only a length
dividing them the dark horse leading. On landing they both ran a bit
wide of the line, but Flatcatcher quickly pulled straight and came away,
leaving Dinah at every stride, eventually winning by ten lengths and more.
Dinah ran second and Othello and Marigold somethini; very like a dead
heat for third honours. Mrs. Beverley on Kate a very close fifth and Mrs.
Sanders sixth.

The winner's performance was a good one, but where all rode so well it is
a very invidious task to particularize. It was quite one of the prettiest sights
I have seen to watch these half dozen or so ladies crossing a country, and
both horses and riders acquitted themselves very honourably. I hope we shall
have another of these chases next season, and that the entry will be twice as
large.

Then, as now, it will be seen the race was a hotly^
contested one all the way over, and there has never yet

135

been a starter for this event, who has not been very much
*^on an engagement." In 1894 ^ lady who was then a
stranger to Calcutta — Mrs. Sinclair Thomson — was
Diana Victrix, and she rode a mare named Polly, by no
means an ideal lady's hunter, very pluckily and well, and
scored her win against some very formidable rivals in Mes-
dames Barrow and Walker. Polly was a thorough-bred
black mare who, provided she got over the fences safely,
held her opponents safe enough on the flat. She jumped
the course without a fall and outpaced Flatcatcher, Dick,
etc., at the finish. In 1895, Mrs. Lamond Walker, one
of the hardest lady riders we have had and the best,
bar two, that India has ever seen, won her first Ladies*^
Cup on Dick. He was not a clean-bred one, but just
an honest little hunter, clever and handy and of the
kind that does not know how to fall. This, however,
was only the first of several victories, for in 1900 Mrs.
Walker won it again on Lilac, a big brown mare, whom
she had to teach to jump, and who in the end proved herself
a really first-class huntress, and in 1904 and 1907 on a great
little customer named Detective, who has a pedigree
as long as Bend Or's and was full-brother to a horse
called Security, who w^as imported from Australia to win
the Viceroy's Cup, but never managed it, though he won
other races. Detective has carried Mrs. Walker for many
seasons and has also been the means of gaining her the
Average Cup as already in a previous chapter related. In
1896, Mrs. Barrow won it for the second time on Flatcatcher,
a horse whose name is famous in paperchasing annals,
and who was probably one of the best jumpers that ever
wore a shoe. He was a beautifully shaped little horse, as
thorough-bred as they are made, and although only a pony
in inches, for he was barely 15 hands, he showed both out
paperchasing, and in races between the flags, that he was
quite fast enough to hold his own against bigger rivals.

136

But whilst paying a just tribute to the horse we must not
forget a far more important duty, our tribute to the lady
who rode him. Mrs. Jim Cook and Mrs. Barrow are
probably the two best horse-women who have ever been in
India, and those who have been so fortunate as to see both
these ladies ride will, we do not doubt, bear us out in our
assertion. For hands, seat, nerve and judgment, Mrs.
Barrow has had no equal in recent years and she was, and
is still, in a class by herself amongst horse-women in India.
Any horse, any country, it all came the same to her, and we
have only to look over the records of this Cup to find suffi-
cient proof for the statement that she was the feminine em-
bodiment of Whyte Melville's man " to whom naught came
amiss." Flatcatcher was not always an easy horse to ride,
but he was the most tractable of all those that Mrs. Barrow
rode. The mare Belinda on which Mrs. Barrow won in the
following year was by no means an easy one to either hold
or steer. She was very impetuous and sometimes very rash
at her fences. The win on her was all the more creditable
as Mrs. Barrow rode her with a finger in a splint, she
^having been so unfortunate as to break it in a fall shortly
before the Ladies' Cup of that year was run. Molly Riley
on whom she won in 1899 was another '' handful," and
yet Mrs. Barrow used to ride her with ease in a snafile,
and she also won the Average Cup on her. The fifth of
Mrs. Barrow's victories was on a very nice little horse she
got from Dr. Spooner Hart — hence his name, Spooner ! !
This was in 1902, and since then Mrs. Barrow has not
seriously attacked the trophy, thinking doubdess, as well
she may, that she can afford to rest upon her laurels.
We must now hark back to 1898, the year intervening
between two of Mrs. Barrow's victories. In that year the
Ladies' Cup was won by Miss Prophit on The Bun, both
rider and mare having learnt most of their business in
Ireland, though the rider is claimed by the *'Land o'Cakes."

It was a most happy combination of the Two Kingdoms,
and rarely, if ever, have a pair been more devoted and
confidential friends than Miss Prophit and " Bunny."
Miss Prophit, as every one who has the honour of her
acquaintanceship knows, is a lady who never knew and
still does not know how to spell the word " fear," and her
exploits in the saddle out paperchasing in Calcutta and
also hunting at home are numerous. The Bun is only a pony
like many another first-rate paperchaser. She is a typical
little Irish hunter, compact, well-balanced and extremely
difficult to fault wherever you take her. In the company
of those who jump and who know all about it she could in
her day be classed A-i at Lloyds. To say that she was
as good and as clever as old Flatcatcher, is, we think, to
pay her the best compliment we can. She is still to the
fore and may be seen looking as well as ever carrying
her charming mistress about hacking. The picture which
we publish of her does not do her all the justice we could
desire. In 1901, Miss Pugh (Mrs. Patterson) won on
her brother's well-known mare Ladybird, who was then
a winner of the Paperchase Cup and many races. Mrs.
Patterson rode her beautifully and the mare made nothing
of her feather-weight. In 1905 and 1906, Mrs. J. C. C.
Perkins was absolutely invincible, and on her good horse
Peep o'Day gave the whole lot of them the " go-by"
in great style. Mrs. Perkins rode on both occasions most
admirably and with excellent judgment and courage.
Last on the whole list comes last year's winner. Lady
Violet Elliot, who rode Captain Holden's Lord Harry
who had never, prior to this race, had a lady on his
back. Lady Violet came to us with a reputation for being
a beautiful horse-woman and it scarcely needed this per-
formance to tell us that those who said so spoke no more
than the truth. She won easily it is true, and was on a
first-class performer, but her young ladyship was new to the

!38

Ballygunge Country, new to the horse, and she had never
ridden in a paperchase before in her life. Her perform-
ance was therefore a most creditable one, and the cheers
that went up as she came home first over the last fence, were
inspired by a genuine admiration for a plucky achievement.
There remains now no more to be said excepting to express
the hope that the recorder of these deeds has not opened
his mouth only to put his foot in it — and to publish the
record of the winners : —

1893.

Mrs. Rarrow

.. Flalcatcher

1894.

Mrs. Sinclair Thomson

.. Polly.

1895.

Mrs. L. W^alker

.. Dick.

1896.

Mrs. Barrow

... Flatcatcher

1897.

Mrs. Barrow

.. Belinda.

1898.

Miss Prophit

The Bun

1899.

Mrs. l^arrow

... Molly Riley.

1900.

Mrs. L. Walker

... Lilac.

1 90 1.

Miss Pugh

... Ladybird.

1902.

Mrs Barrow

... Spooner.

1903.

Miss Pugh

... Ladybird.

1904.

Mrs. L. Walker

... Detective.

1905.

Mrs. Perkins

... Peep o'Day.

1906.

Mrs Perkins

... Peep o'Day.

1907.

Mrs. L. Walker

.„ Detective.

1908.

Lady Violet Elliot

.. Lord Harry.

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CHAPTER VII.

The Pony Cup.
We now arrive at the last Chapter upon the various
Cups that are run for during the Calcutta Paperchase
season, and, though we fear that our readers may by this time
begin to find these fugitive notes upon men and horses (and
also ladies) somewhat tiresome and tinged with sameness
and reiteration, it is our task to present in as readable
a form as possible some short history of each event as it
com.es. A book like ours will probably be "caviare to
the general," but to the individual it may be of some-
thing more than passing interest. Most of us, we fancy,
wish that we could garner the memories of old friends and
old times,

" Even the yarns Jack Hall invented and the songs Teiu Roper sntig I "

and, alas, most of us can add —

'• And where are now Jem Roper and Jack Hall ?*'

And so perchance, this endeavour to compile a some-
what bulky Who's Who of the Calcutta Paperchases may
serve its purpose and help many of those who are here
still, and some of those also who are far away, to recall men
and times that have now passed from the stage, to make
room for other actors and other scenery. These notes are
merely intended to serve as a memento of the old days
to those who come after, and who, in their turn, will have
their share of the corn, and of the oil, and of the wine
that maketh glad the heart of man.

There are some people who think that there are too
many Cups nowadays, and that the very multiplicity of

140

them makes the honour of winning them too cheap. But as
times move onward, it is inevitable that we must move with
them, and, whereas in the old days there were two dozen
men who rode, to-day there are ten times that number.
And so as a natural consequence in due course of time
the ''pony" man was bound to spring up. At first he
was not a very numerous species, and it was not until
1894 that he increased sufficiently to demand that at the
end of the season he should be given a Cup of his own
to run for. That these claims were legitimate ones no
one for a moment will dispute, for although in the
days before the Bally gunge chokra was as deeply
steeped in guile as he is to-day, the ponies only had
to jump the fragments that remained after the horse
chase had swept over the fences, in their own Cup they
had to take on a stiff course with very " live " obstacles to
negotiate. To-day of course it requires far more nerve
and jumping powder to face the pony paperchase every
week, than it does to ride in the horse chase. And we
will proceed to explain why. The advance of education
and the Europeanising of the indigenous brother — partic-
ularly in the department of sport — have shown the Bally-
gunge chokra the possibilities of so-called "fun" to be had
out of pony paperchasing — from purely a spectator's point
of view. So what does he do but carefully rebuild all the
gaps in the fences, which have been made by the hordes, and
then go one better and put the height up a bit on his own
account ! The result is sometimes absolutely monumental !
" Bijli " of the Bustee, and little pug-nosed Habi bullah of
the Durzi's shop, in the mangoe tope, then sit on a bank — and
on that part of their anatomy known as their " hunkers " —
and enjoy the fun ( ! ). The harvest in squashed topis and
the owners thereof, and backsheesh for catching loose ponies,
is sufficiently big to merit the attention of the Collector of
Income Tax, and we respectfully suggest to him that he

o

141

should send one of his emissaries to the Durzi's Bustee and
demand to be told what is the exact figure of this unearned
increment. We think enough has now been said to show
that our friend the " pony man " has every right to claim
that a Cup should be given him, for we have proved to
demonstration that, owing to the circumstances hereinbefore
set out, the dangers that he is weekly called upon to face
are far in excess of those that encompass his bigger rival !
There have so far been eleven Pony Cups run for since
the year 1894 when it was first instituted, the hiatus
having occurred in 1899 when no sufficient encouragement
offering, no Cup was given. It then fell into abeyance
until 1903. Since that year it has been a recognised
fixture, and judging by the large numbers of ponies we see
out in jumping events at the Tollygunge Club and Calcutta
meetings, to say nothing of the Tollygunge Steeplechases,
the pony '' hunter" seems to be increasing and multiply-
ing. In the present year of Grace a Pony Average Cup
has been instituted. Mr. James Hutchison, Secretary to
the C. T. C, is the kind donor, and it bids fair to be as
popular as the big Average Cup.

The first Pony Cup was won by an Arab, one Khalid^
a very shapely little grey, owned, and of course ridden by
Captain (now Lt. -Colonel) ''Jim" Turner, then in com-
mand of H. E. the Viceroy's Bodyguard. This is not the
only occasion upon which an Arab has been successful in
event, as in 1903 Captain Smith won it on a great little
character named Night, a wonderful jumper, as some-
times these Sons of the Desert are when it is born in
them. We also are not certain that the pony upon
which Captain Ross won in 1898 was not an Arab. But
the records were not kept in those years as carefully as
they now are, and in matters connected with pony paper-
chasing the thing was more or less a go-as-you-please.
It is described as " a grey" and if memory serves us

142

was a grey Arab polo pony owned by that gallant and
cheery Gurkha officer ! As is the case in the other
events, the class of pony that wins this Cup now-a-days
is considerably ahead of that of those earlier years, for no
polo pony could now hope to foot it with fliers like Path-
finder, Good Chap, Envious, Reha, etc., to mention a
few names of winners and possible winners of the
immediate past and present. In 1895 the late Mr. Grant
who was a brother of Mrs. J. C. C. Perkins, and of
Lt.-Col. Grant, v.c, won it on Ladybird II, a pony that
at one time was by no means the safest of conveyances,
and upon one occasion handed her owner a very heavy
fall. Poor Grant was subsequently killed in a trap
accident in Rangoon, but it was always said that he
never quite recovered from the effects of the fall he got
paperchasing in Calcutta. In 1896 Mr. Richard Magor,
Avho is now a belted hurra sahib of Messrs. Williamson,
Magor & Co., at home, and who is, so we hear, to be fre-
quently seen out hunting with the Essex packs, got home
on a clever little mare named Redbourne. She was the
apple of her owner's eye and gave him any number of good
rides paperchasing, and also in pony hunter's races at the
Tollygunge Club. In 1897 Mr. David Eraser, then of the
Bank of Bengal, now of the Times staff, a distinguished
war correspondent and traveller, won on Little Nell, a
clean bred chestnut pony that was a class above he? rivals.
Mr. Eraser was as persevering in his pursuit of fame
in the saddle as he has since shown himself to be in the
literary arena. He used to ride in chases up-country
and at one time owned a very smart mare named Irma, but
his weight was rather against his getting all the riding he
desired, and he never quite " arrived " into the front rank
of Indian G. R.^s. There is, however, no doubt about
his success in his present line of business, as all who
have read his very ably-written books and articles will

H3

readily testify. Captain Ross' win in 1898 has already
been referred to. He was then on the staff at Belvedere.
He was a hard man at everything he took on, and besides
being a strong horseman, he had a great penchant for
foot-bali and fighting. He was also blessed with a very
keen sense of humour and in a certain campaign in Tibet
his adventures (as related by himself), whilst commanding
a coolie transport corps, composed of cut-throat Baluchis,
kept the entire little army in roars of laughter. Captain
Smith's win on Night in 1903 has also been referred to. He
is a brother of Mrs. Lamond Walker's and was at one
time in a British Cavalry regiment, subsequently going
to the Indian Cavalry, a force that has turned out such a
large number of first-class horsemen. Mr. G. B. Mackellar
who is still in Calcutta was the winner of 1904 and he
rode a sturdy and very fast mare named Yuletide, who now
and again used to come out and win in hunter's hurdle
races. Mr. Mackellar is one of those whom the hand
of Time has touched lightly, for he still rides races in
Calcutta, and is, we may mention, a G. R. who is a
contemporary of Dr. Spooner Hart's. One would hardly
think of it to look at the two gentlemen side by side !
But in those early days when " the Doctor " was a 10 st.
man, Mr. Mackellar and he used to ride at Dum Dum,
etc. Mr. Mackellar's weight is today, we believe, still
in the region of 8 st. We do not know what his rival's
weight is, for Dr. Hart, like Mr, Jorrocks, usually finds
that he has *'avery 'ticklar engagement" when invited
to go near a scale ! ! !

In 1905 and 1906 Mr. Kenneth Hamilton and Good
Chap were absolutely invincible, and our photographic
artist has managed to present us with a very good
picture of this excellent combination of good pony and
good rider. Mr. Hamilton's reputation as a G. R.
is too well known in India to render it necessary for us to

144

dilate upon his talents. The darling ambition of his
heart is, we believe, to win the big Paperchase Cup, and
he has made one or two great efforts, but has had none
the best of luck. There is still, however, time enough,
and we shall hope that in the next edition of this
volume, the next editor may have the pleasing duty of
adding his name to the scroll of honour. In 1907 and 1908
Captain Holden, who has of recent years simply dusted
the floor with every one in both the horse and pony classes,
won it on Pathfinder II, and no one can possibly grudge
so good a sportsman and so fine a horseman his successes.
Out of the eleven Pony Cups the Body-guard have won
three. This, w^e hear, is to be Captain Holden's last year
in command of that fine body of men, but he may stay
long enough to do the hat-trick in both the Horse and
Pony Cups. At any rate, we should like to see him try.
There remains now little else but the record of the winners
to add to this chapter, and we can find no better tag to to
than the following list : —

1894.

Captain Turner

... Khalid.

1^95.

Mr. Grant

Ladybird U,

1896

Mr. Magor

Red bourne.

1897-

Mr. Fraser

... Little Nell.

1898.

Captain Ross

... (A grey.)

1899.

No Cup.

1900.

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>»

1902.

>»

1903.

Captain Smith

... Night.

1904.

Mr. Mackellar

... Yuletide.

1905.

Mr. K. M. Hamilton

... Good Chap

1906.

Mr. K. M. Hamilton

... Good Chap.

1907.

Captain Holden

... Pathfinder II.

1908.

Captain Holden

... Pathfinder H.

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CHAPTER VIII.
The Hunter's Steeplechase.

In every country, where anything in the shape of a
Hunt Club exists, it is usually found that at some time
during the season the sporting ''bloods" who support it
arrange to have something in the shape of an Olympiad
to find out whose horse is the fastest and which man is the
best jockey. It usually takes the form of a race or two
between the flags and a Hunt Cup, in which all the fliers
are certain to be seen out. In Calcutta our Paperchase Cup
for many years since the commencement of paperchasing
served this purpose, and does still do so to a very great
extent, but as it is not exactly a steeplechase, as that form
of entertainment is ordinarily understood, the sporting
members of this Club in the year 1890 approached the
Turf authorities and got them to vote funds for a race "for
hunters " at the Tollygunge Steeplechases. The first
*' Hunter's Steeplechase," as we know the race to-day, was
run in that year, though prior to that a race entitled the
Amateur Welter had been in existence and was practically
a steeplechase on the same terms as the Hunter's Steeple-
chase to-day : that is to say, it was *' for hunters " and the
conditions required that only G. R.'s should ride. Mr.
Dudley Myers, the president of the Calcutta Paperchase
Club, rode in, and won, this race on Zulu, his Paperchase
Cup winner, and as it was run over the Tollygunge course
as it used to be, and not over the flimsy make-believe
thing we have to-day, it took a good deal more winning.
B, CPR 10

146

The Amateur Welter subsequently degenerated into a flat
race, and it was not until 1890 that a jump race for G. R.'s
was reinstated in the Tollygunge programme. Long prior
to this, however, hunt steeplechases were in full swing,
and, as Mr. Thomas Watson has told us, they were well
supported and usually were held at Dum-Dum. An
account of one of these functions in 1870 is to be found in a
previous chapter. These races, however, date back to a
considerably earlier period than 1870, and we have
managed to unearth from the Oriental Sporting Magazine
of 1834 an account of a memorable race of this order run
at Dum-Dum on the 20th February of that year. The
historian of that period, *' Nim East," gives the following
very graphic account of it : —

Thursday^ February 20th, 1834. — "We met at Dum-Dum, ran to earth
twice — but nothing turned up worth noting save that a gentleman in a flannel
cricketing jacket, to wit, the owner of 1-5. 641. came amongst us again, and his
advent was hailed with much satisfaction. As there is no sport to discuss, perhaps
a few lines regarding the steeple race for all Arabs which came off on the
Tuesday previous, may not prove a bad finale to all these " scribblements," All
Arabs lost. 4lbs. , and as much more as the owners might deem fitting. It had
been intended to make it a race for all horses, but hunting casualties, etc., made
it difficult to find cattle to start at this time of the year. Here they are —

Mr. R.'s ... b, a. h. Marksman, ridden by Mr. Moblate ... 1

Mr. D.'s ... c. a. h. Tiny (late Lobster), ridden by Mr. Oldgoing 2

Mr. M.'s ... g. a. h Duncan Grey, by Mr. L. L. L. D. D. D. .. 3

Mr. B.'s . g. a. h. Skyscraper, hy Mr. McN. C ... 4

The ground was, up to Latchford lane, the same as in the races of previou.s
years, but from that point it diverged to the left, over a country, if anything,
I should say more difficult than that upon the old course. — Off — all altogether
in the little field after crossing the nullah and surmounting the bank on the
opposite side — (by the way we were obliged before starting to have this particular
bank broken down a little but not by a run upon it, — tor nobody but General
Wolfe who was —

" No ways particular,

But march up great rocks which were quite perpendicular,"
could possibly have got over it). Skyscraper hauled his wind here a little
and did not come out of the field with the other three, — who were led by
Tiny, but the gallop (over some small enclosures and up to the stiff rails 4
feet 3 inches high) gave Marksman the lead, and he cleared the rails first
and made strong running on the other side, — the two others got cleverly over,
and Skyscraper was in the clouds and never saw them at all. The field were
altogether again at a large ditch which was cut out evidently for larger cattle,
and the little nags all dropped into it and were some minutes in scrambling up
the other bank, which they did, Marksman leading ; his scramble, however, had
the effect of loosening his girths and down came his rider, the saddle turning
at a jump a few hundred yards off. Tiny now took the lead, and clapped on
€very stitch of canvas with the intent to make au easy job of it. Some thought

'47

that there was a small mistake made here by his rider and that a flag was missed
and he was holloa'd to, but after-events made it unnecessary to bring him back
and it is as well to say that the circumstances had no sort of influence or eff^ect
upon the result of the race, and that whether he went right or wrong it mattered
not as far as the race was concerned. I think, however, he should not have
been stopped ; no umpire being near, and nobody certain as to the fact of his
being on the wrong side of the flag ; he of course got a long start here, but a
very (for the others) ? fortunate bank, brought him up, and all four were aj^ain
together Much time elapsed before the obstacle was overcome and they
followed, an English mare, Felicity, Captain G. over, Marksman leading, and
it was his pace at this critical moment that placed him where he was at the end
of it, for thirty or forty yards off. there was a double ditch, measuring fifteen
feet and upwards, over which he went clear and safe. Tiny who was close at
him, tipping the farther bank and going down a summerset ; Duncan Grey,
next in order, rolled over him. and the third horse Skyscraper, thinking that
arms and legs and bodies were like bundles of straw, and broke a fall consider-
ably, was rattled at it, and of course, went down sprawling among them. There
was, I am glad to say, no mischief done ; there is little use in continuing the
account ; this circumstance sent Marksman in an easy winner —admirably
jockeyed from first to last, — in fact, I never saw better or steadier rining.

Tiny had every chance given him by his rider, but those who fancied he was
the best horse in the race were much out in their reckoning; he is as g lod an
Arab as ever jumped (a capital jumper too), but not one of the youngest, and
his age and size make it ridiculous to think he could travel with the winner, a
large fresh young horse. Perhaps the fastest horse in the race was Duncan Grey,
who, for almost a beginner at this sort of work, went admirably and his rider
looked quite delighted with him, if one might judge from his countenance ; but
as happiness here below is seldom or ever uiialioyed, he was obliged to eat a
little dust before breakfast this morning, which had the effect, as I can testify,
of heightening rather than destroying his appetite, — Skyscraper save that he
disdained the rail (a fact which caused some raillery, of course), was very well
piloted throughout, but as I said before, in my opinion, it was Marksman's pace
before crossing the large ditch which gave him the race. The horses were very
fairly matched, as the race, except here and there, was not fast, but one must
still have one's own idea of things, and I think the winning rider was on the
winning horse, — not but that had Tiny landed well at the double ditch, the race
might have been very near ; but I do not think he could have won not having
the necessary quantity of foot for the company he was in. Did steeple races
oftener occur, I could dite a little upon the comportment fitting for spectators,
who behaved very badly on this occasion, crossing the course in all directions and
at all times which should be remedied in future ; there should also be three
umpires and all disputes settled at once, and on the spot ; they should be well
mounted and always at hand.

In those days the men who rode to hounds were
mostly mounted upon Arabs. ^ We wonder how many
of these little Sons of the Desert or even the above-
mentioned Marksman, would ever see the way the field
goes to-day in even a pony hunter's steeplechase at
Tollygunge ; very few indeed, we fear, would be within hail
of the leaders after the first fence — and yet the obstacles
that they were asked to cross in those old days were a
good deal stiffer than, if they were not so high as, the

148

fences we race over to-day. The hunt steeplechase is,
therefore, by no means a thing of recent creation in
Calcutta, and the race that is annually contested over the
Tollygunge course has, it will be seen, a very fairly long
'' pedigree" as these things go. For many years there
was only one race of this order at Tollygunge, now there
are four, two on each day, one each for horses and ponies,
but the race " on terms " is the real lineal descendant in
" tail-male " of the original event an account of which we
have first set out. Prior to 1903, there was only the one
race for hunters at Tollygunge, but in that year, sufficient
inducement offering, the Stewards of the C. T. C. gave the
Paperchase Club a second race, and it has continued to
hold its place in the card since then and is much apprecia-
ted and very well patronised.

It was about this time also that Pony Hunter's steeple-
chases were instituted, and* a record of them is appended
at foot.

The first Hunter's steeplechase proper, as we have said,
was run in 1890, and the first winner was a bay gelding
named Barrister, owned by "Mr. Lawrence," the noin de
guerre^ adopted by a very popular owner of times gone by,
Mr. C. Lawrie Johnstone, himself at one time a great per-
former at all manner of feats of equitation — race-riding,
pigsticking, paperchasing, polo and any other kind of
" divarshun," in which a horse bore a part. He was one
of the shining lights of the Calcutta Turf Club and also
a well-known figure in the Calcutta Polo Club. He came
from a firm that has always been connected with sport in
India, Messrs. Jardine, Skinner & Co., and in those days
the most potent, grave and reverend signiors did not set their
faces quite so sternly against the Turf as they have in more
recent years. Like other Burra Sahibs of the big firm who
have come after him, "Mr. Lawrence" was also in his
time a Steward of the C. T. C, and everyone who knew him

'49

when he was in India will join us in voting him a prince
of good fellows. Barrister was a genuine paperchaser and
in this race he was to have been ridden by the late Mr.
Lawrie Alston, who used to ride as "Mr. Lawrie " and
was one of the best men between the flags that we have
ever had in India. He and '' Mr. Latham " (Latham
Hamilton) were the bright particular stars of those days,
though "Mr. Lawrie" was considered by some to be the
better man over fences. The late George Robinson how-
ever was put up at the last moment. Robinson was then
a leading cross-country "pro." In 1891, another genuine
paperchase horse won. Slim Jim, owned by Mr. Taylor
of the P. W. D. and also ridden by the late George
Robinson. Next year another distinguished horseman won
Major " Ding" Macdougall, one of the hardest men across
fences India has ever known, and Mr. Barrow, who was
then making almost his maiden appearance in steeplechases,
was a close second on old Flatcatcher, who ran a great horse
against Grey Dawn, Mr. Butler's big grey. The race of 1892
was a regular nightmare steeplechase as only two horses out
of a big field got the course, Kettledrum owned by Mr. W.
O. Rees and ridden by W. Alford the professional, and Flat-
catcher ridden by the owner, all the rest either falling or
refusing. The trouble was caused by Flatcatcher, who ran
all across the field at the open ditch, brought a lot of them
down and set the rest refusing. Kettledrum was one of
the few who got over, and he finished the course alone.
Captain — now Colonel — Jenkins of the Rifle Brigade, was
so annoyed at the contrariness of his horse Half Pay, on
whom poor Captain Jack Hanwell, since then killed in
action in South Africa had the ride, that after the last race
he got up on his horse himself in his beautiful suit of clothes
and rode him a solitary school over the big fences, and gave
him something by which to remember his misdeeds ! He
was rewarded the following year as Half Pay, with the

I50

gallant owner up, won in excellent form and also carried
Captain Jenkins extremely well out paperchasing. In 1895^
** Mr. Tougall's " Hayti won, and he was ridden by Mr. R.
B. Lamotte, who, even then, was not absolutely in the first
bloom of youth, but came to India from Sydney with a
ready-made reputation as a G. R. and had ridden winners
over some of the stiffest of the colonial courses, including
Rand wick. The victory of '* Mr. Tougall*" McLeod's good
brown was, needless to say, extremely popular, the more so
as he was then our M. F. H. and ran the show exceed-
ingly well. Mr. Lamotte rode the horse in a way that
gave all of us a lesson. '' Mr. Tougall " was delighted, and
he sent Mr. Lamotte a souvenir of the victory in the shape
of a silver-mounted hunting-crop suitably inscribed, a
memento that our friend treasures to-day. The winner of
1896 was Saturn, a fine bay horse owned by Mr. A. L.
Butler and ridden by the late " Mr. Childe" (Captain Frank
Shakespear), then in the zenith of his career as a G. R.
Saturn was by no means an easy horse to ride, and
if memory serves us aright used to take a good deal of
holding out paperchasing. Mr. Butler, however, who was
always a desperate thruster, used to shove him along in
great form, and was always there or thereabouts on him at
the finish.

In 1897, Mr. Barrow's Belinda, whose performances
in the Ladies' Cup have already been noticed, won very
nicely ridden by Mr. Teddy Glasgow of the Royal Sussex.
He is now probably a full-blown major man, but in those
days he was a light weight subaltern, and used to go very
hard out paperchasing on a wayward chestnut mare. The
winner of 1898 was Surprise, owned by Mr. George Nairn
(Mr. Newall) whose trade was "jut'," but whose hobby was
*' harses," and he was ridden by W. Alford. In 1899, Mr.
Barrow won on his own mare Molly Riley, a subsequent
Paperchase Cup winner. She was known to be a good

o

2
a*

151

thing- if she could be induced to face the *' regulation," a

fence that in her schools, she had resolutely refused to-

have anything to do with. However, in the race she was

bustled over it before she knew where she was, and then had

only to canter home. Lord Suffolk supplied the winner

of 1900 — in Franciscan, a beautiful grey horse who was

ridden by "Mr. Loftus " (Mr, Loftus Beatty), quite one

of the best G. R.'s we have ever had in India, in

1901 Major Ferrar's good horse Protection, ridden by

Mr. Harry Stokes, won, and later on in the year he as

near as possible vron the Hunter's Hurdle race in Calcutta.

He was a very fine horse indeed — a typical well-bred

weight carrier, and his owner thought so well of him that

at the end of his Battery's Indian service he took him

home, and hunted him for many seasons. Since 1902 two

G. R.'s have held an absolute mortgage on this event.

Captain Holden won it for the first time in that year on

Eldorado ; Mr. Pugh won it on Ladybird in 1903 ; Captain

Holden again in 1904 on Eric ; Mr. Pugh again in 1905

on Mr. Maurice Turner's Look Out, who was also quite

invincible in the handicap chase of the same year, and in

1906, 1907 and 1908 Captain Holden's Lord Harry has

swept the board. We close our chapter with the roll of

honour : —

THE HUNTER'S STEEPLECHASE,

Distance

ABOUT 2)4 Miles.

Owner.

Horse.

Rider,

1890

Mr. Lawrence

Barrister

G. Robinson.

I89I

Mr. Taylor

...

Slim Jim

G. Robinson.

1892.

Mr. Butler ...

Grey Dawn

Capt. \lcDoug\ll.

1893.

Mr. Rees

Kettledrum

W. A I ford.

1894.

Capt. Jenkins

...

Half Pay

Owner

1895.

C. C. "McLeod

...

Hayti ...

Mr. Lamotte.

1896.

Mr. Butler ...

• • •

Saturn ...

Mr. Childe

1897.

Mr. Rarrow ..

Belinda

Mr Glasgow.

1898.

Mr. Newall ..

Surprise

W. Alford.

1899.

Mr. Barrow

Molly Riley

Owner.

1900.

The Earl of Su

fifolk '.'.\

Franciscnn

Mr. Loftus.

I90I.

Major Ferrar

. . .

Protection

Mr. Siokes.

1902.

Capt. Holden

...

Eldorado

Owner.

152

THE HUNTER'S STEEPLECHASE- ^^w^tf'.
O'uner. Horse. Rider.

1903.

Mr. R A. C. Pugh

Ladybird

... Owner.

T904

Capt. Holden

... Eric

Owner.

1905-

Mr. J. M. Turner

Look Out

... Mr. R. A

1906

Capt. Holden

Lord Harry

Owner.

1907.

Capt. Holden

Lord Harry

Owner.

19:8

Capt. Holden

Lord Harry

Owner.

C Pugh.

THE HUNTER'S HANDICAP STEEPLECHASE.

Oioner.

Distance about 2% Miles.
Horse.

Rider.

1903.

Mr. J. W. Orr

Dundonald

Mr. Parsons.

1904.

Mr. Holmes

.. Jacinth

... Mr. M. Turner

1905.

\lr. M. Turner

.. Look Out

.. Mr. Pugh

1906.

Capt. Holden

Lord Harry

... Owner.

1907.

Capt. Holden

.. Lord Harry

Owner.

1908.

Mr. K. M. Ham

iton

Pretender

Owner.

PONY HUNTER'S STEEPLECHASE.
Ozuner. Ho^se. Rider,

1904. Mr. J. D, Marshall ... The Owl

1905. Mr. J. D. Marshall The Owl

1906. Mr. Holmes ... Energy

1907. Mr. R. A. C. Pugh ... Mistlebird

1908. Capt. Holden . Pathfinder H

Mr. MacDonnell.
Capt. Randall.
Mr Barrow.
Mr. Barrow.
Owner.

PONY HUNTER'S HANDICAP STEEPLECHASE.

Owner. Horse, Rider.

1905. Mr. Holmes

1906. Mr. Hamilton

1907. Mr Glen

190S. Mr. W. k Tanner

Dewdrop
Good Chap
Zig Zag
Emerald

Owner.
Owner.
Mr. Evers.
Owner.

W

1

-<.

o

C

w ^

r-

Z

™ > ^

c

HI

8" M ^

M °

Tl

O

i<S

W

APPENDIX A.

1870-71,

The first paperchase was held some time in 1870. Riding men
alone knew of the proposed meeting. Such a thing had not been heard
of before, and few took the least interest in it. It was agreed to meet
outside one of the chummeries on the south side of Ballygunge, and a
meet there was. How different to those of the present day I A baker's
dozen was the num.ber, but they were all on riding intent. Crooke on
^' Billycock " and Brancker on " Barwang " were to be the hares ; these
two gentlemen being in fact the originators of the hunt Cast your eyes
over the v. inners on the first two pages of the appendix to the Bally-
gunge Association Rules, and you will see the names of men and horses,
Crooke figuring as "Mr. Alipore.'' There was a glorious uncertainly
in this chase ; the destination was unknown, and thoughts were more
bent on the paper than on hard riding.

But we are off up a lane along a foot-path into a field, where we
negotiate the first jump which was but a small ditch and bank. This
brings us into a garden ; a gateway is completely blocked, and it is
evident that the hares have jumped the fence into the lane. Readers
can mark the place now under a different aspect. It is just on the west
side of Milton & Co.'s school. Horses were then but little accustomed
to "lepping." Such refusals, such objurgations and smoky language I The
same fence would now be cleared by a dozen riders abreast, but all
things must end, 2i.x\di proh pudor I A man on a Burma pony is the first
to clear the obstacle. To him follow the late Captain G. Loch, then
A D. C. to the Lieutenant-Governor, and a man on an English horse.
A longish interval separates the rest. The chase then bears to the left,
comes through the Gurriah Hat Road over the Railway crossing and
into the open country to the right. All this time there is but little
jumping, such as it is being quite natural. In the open a succession of
banks and ditches is met with. This is considered high jinks, till
jumping into a brinjal garden the leaders are met by one of the high
fences that usually surround such gardens. Presently a voice from the

154

depths "Take the last jump, gentlemen ! " Hallo ! Crooke and Biancker
are seen just behind the high fence with their horses down in a deep
ditch. The other riders drop in one by one though the number was
diminished to ten. Then, as now the finish was near Jodpur station.
All go home highly pleased, and think it is rather fun. And so ended
the first Calcutta paperchase.

Of that baker's dozen about four are still in Calcutta, but they
do not ride as much as they rode then, for it was more than 17 years
ago !

After the first paperchase there were one or two more of a similar
nature in the vicinity of Ballygunge, and they were then discontinued,
the weather being considered too hot.

Meantime Crooke and Montie Stewart had gone to live at Burra
Bagh House, Tollygunge. This is the large house standing away by
itself on the right of the road after leaving Tollygunge. In November
1870 Crooke gave out he was going to give us a regular twister in the
direction of Tollyguni^e. More interest had now begun to be taken in
this class ot riding Expectation was great, and the morning appointed
saw something like thirty or forty horsemen assembled outside the
gateway in the road. Several knew pretty well what would take place,
others went out of mere curiosity with no fixed idea of what they
would do. Crooke on Billycock and Brancker on Barwang were again
to show the way, and right well they did it.

The start was down a lane running eastwards from the road and
nearly opposite the outside gateway of Burra Bagh House ; then, turn-
ing left-handed, the first artificial jump m the form of a hurdle appeared
in a Calcutta paperchase course. This was soon laid flat by the field.
But the triumph was not of long duration. Crooke was not fond of half-
hearted riders. His motto was ''Jump you must, or be left behind."
So the next fence was a high one, made of strong bamboos ; and outside
a small enclosure, any other way (except that by which you came)
being also barred. This was joy to the iew, sorrow to tTie many.
Aitchison on Red Piince, William Thomas on The Fenian,
David Landale on Norma, Apperley on Cock Robin, Downing,
S. Carlisle, Thurburn and Millett are over it and away. The usual
refusals follow, while several look on waiting for the way to be cleared.
This was subsequently done by Johnston Smith on The Doctor,
the two practically sitting upon the rails, and crushing them down.
This lets loose the pent up, and now delighted crowd. Then succeed
two or three small jumps, half natural and half artificial, until an
impediment in the ground appears — a veritable chasm ten or twelve
feet wide, with water running about a foot-and-a half below its banks. —
Again is the motto brought into play. All methods of getting round
are barred. Harden your heart, for in, through, over or under you

must go. William Thomas makes a bold attempt on The Fenian^
but something puts the horse a little out of his stride, and not obtaining
sufficient bite with his hind feet on landing, his hind legs slip into the
water. But the two are not to be denied, and it does not take them
long to be out and off again. Two or three jump in, and after frantic
struggles scramble out. Two or three more flounder through by a way
somewhat easier where a ditch joins the stream ; while a rider on a
grey horse is walking up the centre asking if " any fellow can tell a
fellow how to get out of this" Meantime there has been grief untold.
Some are fathoming the bottoms of ditches, others are for ever on the
"refuse," while others think "discretion is the better part of valour"
and give it up. Among those who thus met with grief may be noticed
Bourke, a Barrister, since added to the list of murdered Irish landlords.
But let us get forward with the first flight, mostly composed of the same
riders who were to the fore in the first instance. Not one of these has
yet been left behind. They now swing round to the right and cross
the Gurriah Hat and Tollygunge road half a mile beyond the further
turn of the present steeplechase course. Still bearing to the right a
fence with a ditch and drop the other side meets the view. Nowhere
is a better illustration of the inferior jumping knowledge possessed by
the horses of those days. With the best men and best riders that
Calcutta could produce not one could accomplish this fence for the
first time of asking, and some not till after two or three refusals.
The first man the other side " slithered " underneath horse and all,
leaving the upper rails untouched. This brings them to strip a of grass
which runs alongside Tolly's Nullah, and is about two hundred
yards at the back of the present race stand. And here the pace
is increased somewhat, the going at times having hitherto been
heavy

But the end is not yet : Turn to the right up a lane and then
suddenly to the left, and the riders are confronted with a brick walk
Over go the majority of the string, now well drawn out, and througli
some gardens only to meet with another brick wall. Aitchison — not
by the way Sir Charles of that ilk — is now leading, but weighf, distance
and strong leaping has told its tale on Red Prince, and he comes
down smashing his rider's collarbone, and to this pair must be accorded
premier honour, for this was the end. For the rest it may be said *-hat
lapse of time has effaced from memory the various links in the chain
of riders.

This was a rare chase, four miles at least, not such an artificial
course as has now to be encountered, and never a mud wall. The
water jump was an especial feature. One of the hares cleared it, and
it was said one of the field did likewise. If it was so, the names can
be narrowed down to Downing or Apperley.

156

MIDSUMMER MADNESS.
Consternation is in Chowringhee ! The catastrophe has come with
a hideous sutldenness which has struck us dumb I The 7no?isoon has
durst / I didn't see it, I have missed it annually. I have it, however,
from a reliable eye-witness. He hails from the Sunderbuns, and he
says he was on the lookout, because his new barometer was so fear-
fully agitated, that he knew something must burst ! Visions of the train
of woes which the visitation may bring with it have temporarily
paralyzed the community. We picture the speedy conversion of tennis
lawns, racquet courts, and polo fields, into spots for the splashing of
frogs and fishes. Where before, our emotion was all elation, now all is
despondency. Rachel dying to disport herself, refuseth to be comforted.
Conversaziones, glee parties, concerts, being no vent for pent up
physical energy, but increase Chowringhee's crossness. For conversa-
tion, it careth not. Songs soothe it not, nay rather they serve the ends of
sarcasm. The voice of the snarler we heard him complain in the drawing
room (after a melody well executed by an accomplished amateur).

Swans sing before they die ; 'twere no bad thing

If some would kindly die before they sing —

And again in the Institute (after the finest fiddling of

the greatest of all Invernizzis) :

When Orpheus played he moved old Nick,

But he moves nothing but his fiddle stick.

Even the Garden of Eden is in disfavour. Female petulance has
ascribed to that hallowed spot, attributes far from paradisical, and
whilst roaming in its classic shades, actually wished itself away to
the other side of Jordan, or anywhere I I have merely jotted down these
few signs of the times, by way of preface to some agreeable informa-
tion I have to impart. I have received a highly ornamented card (and
am much obliged for this delicate attention) announcing that there
is to be a paperchase on Wednesday next. The meet will be -at 6 A.M.,
sharp, at the " Old Kennels " on the Gurriah Hat Road, whence spec-
tators, and roadsters who prefer the ' ammer ' ammer ' ammer business,
can see a good deal of fun The hard riders who I know will be many,
are sure to have their morning's work cut out, for the foxes are staunch
and strong — Mr. Latham and Mr. Borrock. The falling will be so soft
that a well-executed crumpler will be a positive pleasure, which may
be balm to the craners. In anticipation of a sharp burst, we saw the
Gadha getting a pipe-opener round the racecourse the other
morning. He looked as gay and frisky as his sporting owner, and was
going like a iwo-year-old with his tail curled over his back as stiff as little
Anarchy's. If a good field turns out, and the ladies can patronise
them no doubt, the cups of bliss of the great promoters will be full.

157

I hope this crumb may be some consolation to Chowringhee in her
distress. May it soon be in my power to offer other crumbs. It mav
be so if I overheard aright the whispers about the next Ball which are
growing more audible. It seems the only difficulty is the selection of a
suitable anniversary to commemorate. I suggest either the 21st June,
or 3rd July, or both ! The former is the longest day. Let us add to
its honour by making it the longest night. On the latter the dog days
begin. Days for what ? for the dogs to dance of course. To quote a
local poet : " For every doggie he has his day on which to begin to
dance." And let the 3rd of July be ours — Salaam jee !

F. GOLIGHTLY.

MIDSUMMER MADNESS.

Balls, Paper-chases, Polo-matches, commemorative dinners.
Scene— Calcutta. Dramatis Personas — Enervated Anglo-Indians.
Time — May-June. Quite enough to take away one's breath. What a
change has come o'er the spirit of the scene I What an awakening
is here ! Where the listlessness and the torpor of the past ? Fled,
fled to the hills and far away. May it please our sweet cousins who
have migrated to Simla to meditate that in our madness (save the
mark) we cannot only exist in the plains, but be happy even in
midsummer !

The Ball, really the viost delioJitful of the year as I have over and
over again been assured —

Ye gods ! How sweetly gossip falls

From lips of beauties — after balls.

Is now a thing of the past,

So I speak not of that.

The music stopped, the lights expired,

The dance is o'er, crowds retired.

And all those smiling cheeks have flown.

And, to interpolate " a little thing of my own" (as the Parish Clerk
remarked when he gave out a hymn of his own composition). " Police-
man Roche is left alone !"

A commemorative dinner is as secret and mysterious as the rites
of Freemasons and Mormons, so I cannot speak of that knowing only :—

That Eton's sons are there to-night,
And Lord how great would be their mirth,
If fate would lift them from the earth
And set them all with magic jump.
Squat down beside the Brocas Clump.

158

Beyond therefore, mentioning in a whisper^ that if busy rumour
speaks true and frivolity has its way, other balls are things of the not
distant future. I have merely to speak of the Paperchase and Polo
match, which are both worthy of record.

Paperchase. -Marching orders for the morning of the 3rd of June
having been sent round from the boudoir to the stable, there was a
general girding up of girths, and application of momrogan to hunting
saddles, and at the meet there has seldom before been seen such a
gathering. Fully 40 people on horseback, including four or five ladies,
and mirabile dictu, three or four barouches, the occupants of which,
apart from their keen appreciation of sport in all its phases, perhaps,
had in their minds the adage —

Myrtilla rising with the dawn
Steals blushes from the rosy morn.
But if Myrtilla sleeps till ten,
Aurora steals them back again.

The foxes were two noted performers, the very boys to make the
field cry " Capivi " as old Jorrocks used to say, and were carried by
Chuckerbere and Countess, the latter with that elegant rider Mr
Latham up, to whom the thanks of the community are principally due
for the morning's sport. After the usual law had been given, a field
of 25 horsemen rushed off in pursuit, amongst whom we recognised
several old friends steered by the accustomed hands. Firstly, the
corky Bachelor, who, until he was thrown off the scent near the
finish (perhaps by a bunch of '' stinking " violets), led the whole way,
and next in close attendance were Duchess, Mephistopheles (the
original imp with the diabolical pedigree) the Man of Kent, Red Deer,
Charlton, the Badger Abbess, Jute Butts, and Mr. Sunder on the
Gadha. The ground was soft, the jumping very sweet, and the pace
so hot that in a very brief space after the foxes had got safely to earth,
the leaders were down on them. Duchess and Mephistopheles were
first, and raced "sixteen annis " side by side at the last jump, a big
mud wall with a ditch at the near side, both landing over in fine form ;
but Duchess getting just the best of it at the finish came in first, much
to the delight of her enthusiastic rider, the Man being close behind'
Mephistopheles third, Bachelor fourth, and a swarm of nags fifth, but
the Gadha being last got the prize. There were several spills, and
I am sorry to say that a young lady who was going in a plucky style
came to grief, but I believe she was not hurt. A capital chase and a
capital course was the universally expressed sentiment, and I recommend
the lovers of this sport, which, in the absence of the real thing, is the
best sub«?titute going for *' the sport of kings and the h'image of war
with all the excitement and only five and twenty per cent, of the danger,"

159

to keep their horses in wind, for when the monsoon bursts there will
be another chase, which I hope may be as successful as this one.

F. GOLIGHTLY.

MIDSUMMER MADNESS.

The paperchase of 14th June 1876 will be ever memorable in the
annals of paper-hunting in the East. I speak of it as a likely criiinh of
•comfort for disconsolate Chowringhee. I used quite a wrong
•expression — I should have said loaf. It was consumed to the last
mouthful. All I spoke of was — the foxes were staunch ; the riding was
hard ; the field was large ; the ladies patronized it. The falling was
so pleasant that some gentlemen could not be satiated.

The Meet was at the Old Kennels on the Gurriah Hat Road. More
people than before attended. They came in barouches, buggies,
phaetons and tum-tums. The ordinary tratfic was temporarily
suspended. The patient ryot had to take his hackery into the dilch to
get by. The people of the bustis didn't know what they had come out to
see, but brats and all came out to look It was an inspiriting scene and
worthy the pen of a Pomponius Ego. 1 counted up to 40 people on
horseback, but then got thrown out by that irrepressible Gadha.
Like the little pig and the peasant, he kicked up such a bobbery that
I couldn't count him at all. The <?7?Ve of the fair and the festive of the
human race were there, and most of the aristocracy of the equine tribe.
I missed some who could be ill spared. Bachelor, Jovial-Mariner, and
Duchess, who on the last occasion took the front seat, to which her
rank entitled her, but her rider being on the bed of sickness the saddle
•of sport was empty. Countess and Chuckerbere were there. Also
Mephistopheles, the ink black imp. The learned Judge's knowing grey,
the Squeeler, and the Squire, whose rider was heartily welcomed back,
being greeted with his favorite refrain — " I never waits for nobody, and
no one need wait for me"

The Big Bay, Badger, and Jute Butts were there ; Red Deer,
Sheer Legs, Gay Lad, and the Burra Tatto ; and among the new-
ones, Chowpy the Champion summersault thrower and Mignonette,
or the little (one's) Darling. The Course was well selected. The
ground in capital order. The jumping enough to satisfy the most
voracious, comprising broad ditches, hurdles, mud walls, and a
double (two mud walls each 3 feet 6 inches high) where was enacted
most of the fun of the fair. It was placed alongside the road, and
the gallery took up its position there, as just on the opposite side of
the road was the finish, reached after the double by a circuitous
route.

i6o

The Chase was full of excitement and fun. To speak first of the
foxes. Countess, ably piloted by the straight-going Mr. Latham, went
the course as usual in finished style, and old Chuckerbere being a little
above himself, threw a " lep '^ or two right manfully Both saved their
brushes, and were accused only of making the scent not strong enough,
but perhaps there were perfumed violets about them. The pack was
soon in full cry after them. Nothing eventful occurred until the double,
except a reported strategic movement on the part of Mr. Phocuss to
avoid a nasty wall of which he didn't like the look. He took ground to
the rear where the paper wasn't and then savagely shouting he couldn't
find it galloped off on another track No I by the way I am wrong.
That happened at the big wall after the double. No matter, the sad
delinquency is recorded. Hark for-r-rard I Over the fatal double the
first flight, including the Big Bay, the Bench, Mephistopheles,
Mr Choter, and others got safely over. Then began a scene worthy of
adoption for the comic business of a circus. It was much appreciated by
the audience, and their shouts of laughter were abundant testimony
that grief for the bur-si monsoon had been chased away. Chowpy led off
by here turning his first summersault and did it well. Second clown on
a fiery chestnut soon followed and rolled over Chowpy in the (saw) dust,
in approved fashion. This was the prelude to a scene of wild calamity
and confusion that was very humorous Horse after horse, rider after
rider, came to grief one way or another, until the double was stuffed as
full as a Strasbourg pate. Men, horses, topees, and oaths flew about
unrestrained ; wits fled, the jumble was indescribable until the Squeeler
let them out. He came up at " sixteen annas" pace. His rider casually
roared out a general admonition to all to get out of the way (as if they
could) and jumped bang into the middle of the rabble, knocked them
all in a heap like a bunch of ninepins, and a big hole opening out in the
outer wall the crowd escaped. Hardly had I wiped from my eyes the
tears of laughter elicited by this entertainment when, turning in my
carriage 1 saw the leaders coming in at the finish, Mephistopheles who
kept cleverly to the front as usual was first. The learned Judge was
decreed a good second, whilst little Mignonette, who was capitally ridden
by a most promising young 'un, was landed third.

As she crashed through the last hurdle amidst encouraging cheers,
she, following the ruling fashion, added to her titles (with a defiant toss
of her head) that of " Forget-me-no:," a prophetic warning to the other
maidens relating to the next Ballygunge Steeplechases. Next came the
Badger and Jute Butts. The latter, though he hadn't more than the
weight of a " sparrow " on him, hadn't a kick left and collapsed at
the last jump but one, like a burst ball. After him came the ruck
including welter weights and little Red Deer who would have been
nearer, were his legs as speedy as his heart is stout. The rear

i6i

was brought up by some stragglers ; and so ended another capital
chase.

There will not be time probably for more than one other, before the
country gets too heavy, but "that one there will be, to keep up these
morning breathers.

If anyone had taken a stroll round the Course as I did after the chase
he would have been rewarded by a series of most " larfable " incidents.
Horses riderless scouring the country, Riders hatless scouring after
them. Mr. Chashmer rushing blindly Tollygungewards, his horse
having gone Bailygungewards. Mr. Griffin hanging round his
horse's neck, only escaping terrestrial embrace by a long spur, a
strong spur, and a spur altogether. Mr. Chowpykamafik sitting-
disconsolate, hugging the branch of a tree, brought down by him
in his third double back summersault, and bewaihng the faith-
lessness of Chowpy, who had left him at the third fall, after castino-
on him a curious look of scorn, as if the Sahib and not Chowpy
was to blame. The last incident engraved on my memory was
Mr. Sunder's Gadha planting at a two foot rut, the objurgations
of the rider laid on with an ash plant were loud and Jorrockian. Gur-r-r
along you beast ! Whack ! Whack I Come h'up I say you h'ugly brute !
Whack I Whack ! H 'obstinacy thy name is h'ass. Whack ! Whack !
and then the h'ass come h'up suddenly as if he saw a thistle ahead, and
left his unprepared rider in the rut 1 " Get up thou bald pate " shouted
little Bengalees, and he got up and he left ; and so did I.

VVhen I got home, 1 reflected. I thought of the many additional
aspirants to cross country honours and to what it might not lead at
next season's Steeplechases. There was a lot of new blood out. Most
of it certainly got spilt on the way (untried horses, however, will make
mistakes). There's blood lefi and of good tap too. If gentlemen
sportsmen you will only but hush, hush-sh I am still reflecting.

F. GOLIGHTLY.

MIDSUMMER MADNESS.

Oh horrible 1 Oh horrible ! Most horrible ! The rain it raineth
every day. Chowringhee erst elated by the Chase is again dcsolc.
Mankind in the monsoon is mercurial, being like a barometer sensitive
l-c every change in the weather. No wonder then we have fallen low,
now that the splendours of Apollo's reign have been so completely
routed by the accession of Great King Frog.

Distraught for amusement, we have positively yearned for one of

those delicately devised and elegantly executed " calls to the chase,''

but a glance at the clouds and the waters pouring from them, shows

that at present it is in vain, and that as it is written in the Book of

B, CPR II

1 62

Ward, " It cannot was." The voice of the horses this time, we hear
them complain " we've got no work to do-oo-oo," but we cannot help
them till the rain stops. The inaction falls hard on Chowpy, for how
is he to keep supple for summersaults, Countess, Chukerbeere, Duchess,
The Man, Abbess, The Squire, etc., having no special aims will rest
happy in a dry stable — until the time comes. Jute Butts will have to
get screwed up tight enough, lo carry the house top as well as the
" sparrow" upon it. Mephi must be content to toast his toes in the
lower regions, and conjure up visions in the flames like an old Char
woman, whilst the Darling-ette can do as darlings do, seek for petting,
and she will find it. In the stable of the Sunder, however, there is
inconsolable woe and tribulation, for the state of affairs has broken the
heart of the Gadha. He is no more. Alas ! poor Gadha, Son of
Asinine perfection.

He was a moke ; take him for all in all,
We shall not look upon his like again.

To pass from the stable to the boudoir — where, under these cloudy
circumstances, are we to find new pastures of pleasure for Phyllis and
Corydon ? Not out-doors, so we have temporarily consigned to the
cupboard our tennis-bats, racquets and polo-sticks, and hung them on
the hooks that are therein. It can only be in-doors, and we at once
pronounce " a ball'' which is no longer whispered, but a loud absorbing
topic of conversation — in fact.

Dance, or not to dance, is now the question, and I would ask —
If for the mind it is not bad to suffer
The slings and arrows of prolonged suspense.
Let's take then by the horn the Saltant bull,
And fix the night ek duin. The consummation's
Most devoutly wished. When fixed, all's nigh done.
Tha Bajid? perchance ! The floor ! Ay there's the rub.

Ay, of course there is, but Roche will rub it — as before, until it is
as smooth as a skating rmk. A Ball Secretary would not, perhaps
agree that all is done when the day is fixed, but nevertheless for a good
dance they usually will many " fardels " bear. The longest day having
passed unobserved and June being at its last gasp : July must be the
month, and the Dog Days remain for commemorative feast. All will
laugh to see the sport when the dogs begin to dance, which will be
delightful, for at present none of us can raise even a smirk. It will be
necessary it should rain all day to cool the air, but it must be fine at
night for the sake of the patient carriage horse. The Secretary would,
however, of course, see to these things.

i63

Talking of horses takes me back to the stable. When I closed my
3ast letter I was voyaging to the dream-land of reflection in search of
opportunities for the display of our new equestrians' prowess. As there
seems little chance of any more paperchasing until the crops sown are
grown and cut, will not some enterprising genius organise a series of
•(sunshiny) Saturday afternoon sky races over hurdles and on the flat ?
It will keep us going until the racing season proper comes in, of which
more anon, and will give to him who wants it (surname Legion) that
ipractice which alone makes perfect, whether in executing a fantasia or a
finish. No fellow, until he has "found his seat" so to speak is much
•use, either in galloping, or jumping, whether it is over the keys of the
piano, or the daisies and hurdles of the race-course. Ask it in the
boudoir I Ask it in the stable !

F. GOLIGHTLY.

Jupiter Fluvius must have been touched by our laments, for he has
■put the rose on the watering pot, and been only spattering instead of
slushing us with its contents, but this merely ''by the way" I have
rushed to my pen to announce two important sporting fixtures. The
first is owing to J. P. which is why I have mentiond him ; for if he
turns crusty again it may not come off. The events are —

Wednesday, 28th June. Paperchase.
Thursday, j 3th July. Dog-Day Ball.

Paperchase. — The " call to the chase '' informs me that the meet will
■be, as before, at the Old Kennels at 6 A l\l. Foxes as before Spectators
had better wander up the track known as " the Red Road near the
5heep-pens." Water has lately been laid on lavishly. There will be a
water jump. What a chance for Chowpy 1

The Ba/L— The meet will, I am informed be as before, at the
Town Hall at 9-30 P.M. Managing committee as before. Music, it is
to be hoped, as before. The galloping track (after the rain ?) promises
to be first-class going, cool smooth and slippery. What a chance for
Manolo 1

F. GOLIGHTLV.

Chowringhee arose very early in the morning on Wednesday 28th
June to array for the Paperchase. The last jackal had hardly slunk
into a protecting drain, when, from every upper-storey window in the
mansions of the blest, night-capped heads emerged to inspect the
weather. Grave mistrust had been felt in Jupiter Pluvius, for it had
been noticed that he had bragged in your columns of laying down m
one Wednesday alone, in Cherrapoonjee no less than 40 inches of rain,
a game which, if he should try here, would force us to Paperchase m

164

Boyton swimming suits, and we hav'nt got many. When, however,
was found that —

A joyous sun and bright

Had chased away the moon and stars,

Of the warm and sultry night,

and there was no sign that J. P. was up and moving, the night
caps m their glee screamed "view Holloas" in all keys from dainty
soprano to basso profundissimo ; and as this inspiriting call reverberated
down the street, all was bustle and animation to be off. The drive
through the pretty suburban lanes was most pleasant and exhilarating.
The trees and grass looked green and fresh, nature had on her sweetest
smile, and the busti babies blinked in wonderment at the number of
carriages and horses which went past them. The meet was again at
the Old Kennels, where the assemblage consisted of those who meant
business, numbering some 20 or 30 horsemen. Those who came to
" spectate " hurried off to the Red Road near the Sheep-pens, hoping to
see some fun at the double, water jump, and finish which had been
arranged there. There really seemed to be more lady-sportsmen, more
carriages and more roadsters than before. I hovered over them in my
balloon to take notes and came to the conclusion, that at least half the
roadsters ought to have been at the Kennels, and I hope next time many
of them will take to the field. Some must have had powerful reasons
for not being theie. For instance, I saw spectating the finished horse-
man handed down to posterity in the pages of the Oriental Sporting
Maoazine as the " fair young Englishman glowing with pride." He's not
often seen glowing on the wrong side of the cover, when there's a chance
of a good ride, andl suppose Mephi was not fit. Again, Mr Choter was
there seeking and finding the petting so liberally bestowed on his mare
No ! only saving her for exploits in the cold weather. I also saw
Mr. Sunder on foot which is of course accounted for by the death of the
Gadha, which cast a gloom on the day. Others I had hoped to see
were absent altogether, one being a victim of the T31ack -Friday of
fractures and contusions, owing to which Red Deer was away. But
I must hark back to the Kennels.

Mr. Burrock did not appear with the paper bag, having had a
tumble with old Chuckefbeere the day before. The patient strategist
should have taken his place, but hearing of the expected "Gallery''
whose blandishments he cannot resist, he prudently avoided danger by
a sudden movement on Bally. The " Vielle Moustache," Count R. De
jSTaxela, ever ready for a chase or charge, took his place and carried by
Lord of the Isles was soon "gone away" in company with Mr. Latham
on Countess. A slight altercation with a rustic, in which a little
Bengalee Billingsgate and big bamboo figured, enlivened the first part

■63

of the journey, which reached its culminating point at the Red Road
jumps. Countess was fretful, and twice refused the double, but the
Lord, though a fresh one, went over in a manner which shewed that the
hand on the reins was as deft as ever. Her ladyship was then pleased
to go over and went the rest of the course in a better humour. The
Count, however, had soon to stop, as he broke a stirrup leather, through
which, unfortunately at the end of the course, there was no scent.

The pack " filling the air with joyful melody swept after them like a
hurricane," a tumble or two taking place early in the chase, and as they
neared the double a cry arose " they come." With a long lead there
did come with a vengeance the little country-bred Abbess, tearin.i^ at
her bit like a fiend, but the young Zoologist on her back wisely let her
go her own way, and she was in and out of the double in a twinkling,
closely followed in capital style by the puggery-wigged Judge, ^lariner,
a clever grey, the Lancer, Commandant, Duchess, The Man, Sheer
Legs, The Squeeler and others, after which came the tail of the pack,
who created much diversion. Most got well over the v/ater jump, which
was followed by a big mud wall, but the interest in the chase was then
spoilt by the absence of paper, and the finish was a disorderly scramble,
horses dropping in from all points of the compass, of which the first
flight comprised Mariner, Abbess, the Judge, Duchess, etc, etc , etc.

There were again many " larfable incidents " from which I cull the
following : — Mr. Chashmer renewing on foot his investigation into the
geography of the " Gunges " of Tolly and Bally, in vain search for his
quad. Mr. Koochper-Warny with a wild look in his eye and a dirty
hoof print on his stomach running after his handsome brown, from which he
had been " pipped" in a collision, and when he came to his senses (it is
said) abusing in the words of the great Scamperdale, who could not
swear or use coarse language because he was a lord, the scandalous,
unsightly, idolatrous, rusty-booted, nump-handed son of a pufiing corn-
cutter who had cannoned against him. Next Mr. Ditcher on the Glasgie
Apprentices' chestnut, emulating the feats of Chowpy. He did'nt like
his first fall, and was heard roaring like the immortal Lord -" I've broken
my back," — " Tve broken my legs.-' — "I've broken my ribs." — " I've
broken my collar bone." " I've knocked my right eye into the heel of
my left foot, " "I'm kilt entirely," — but after four more tumbles he got
used to it, and came in chirpy and aptly singing the glee beginning —

Five times by the taper's light
I've fallen on my head this night :

And his topee looked like it ! Then Mr. Jack Spraggon on Yeoman
with a flat hat en regie, galloping past instead of over the double, which
was so unlike him that I think his spectacles must have been dimmed
■by the morning dew. Mr. G. Aspirant executing a (faux) pas de seul

1 66

over the wing of the last jump, and lastly the gem at which was the
loudest " larf." It was elicited by the unparalleled performance at the
double by the sporting Mr. Paddy Moustache on Harlequin Both
jumped over the first wall in first rate form. // was i?i ruins ; but the
second wall was stiff and upright. Harlequin went at it as if slapping
through a property-shop window into the arms of six stalwart scene-
shifters. Mr. P, M. shot skywards, and being hirsute, capillary attrac-
tion from the clouds drew him up as the horse ascended, and let him
down plump as he descended. Thus was the remarkable scene of a
man and his horse becoming in the air, whilst passing over a jump,
separate and distinct bodies, and becoming again one and the same
body on reaching mother earth. It was just like Spiritualism of
Professor Crooke's " physic '' force as Mr. Malaprop calls it. However,
it did'nt disturb Mr. P, .M. much ; for catching his old crock a whack on
the quarters, he rattled on with a merry laugh which was re-echoed
after him.

When the fun was over, all went home, and as my balloon car swept
past one carriage, I overheard a youn^ lady comment that the chase was
very jolly, but she was sorry that there vvere not more spills ! This
must be rectified next time. It was Chowpy's fault. The force of
example does much in these cases, and Chowpy was not there to set it X
A double back summersault at the double and another at the water
would have produced a host of imitators and immortal renown would
have been Chowpy's I He must attend next time. It is so ordained by
the fair sex.

When I got home, I reflected, as is my wont. I reflected to the

effect that paperchasing is merely the preface to steeplechasing ; and I

therefore hope that when the hat goes round for subscriptions in the

race and chase season, no one who has attended these chases will forget

to give practical proof of his appreciation of them.

F. GOLIGHTLY.

1879-80

In very exuberance of spirits, I cannot help getting a friendly
" biped " to write to you, Mr. Editor, to tell of my feeling anent the
paperchase that took place yesterday. I am now reduced to a baboo's
buggy horse, and the only recreation I have in the flesh is to occasion-
ally show my resentment at my position by smashing the wretched
^uggy. I ought perhaps in all humility to quietly pull along But
during the last three weeks I have gone in the spirit a few times over
my old hunting grounds in the neighbourhood of Ballygunge, and tried
to forget my degradation in watching the old fun I used to take such a
prominent part in. Until yesterday's meeting I returned to stern reality^

167

with heavy heart, seriously debating as to whether or not I should at
once sink without a struggle into a slave, but now I am determined to
rattle the old buggy more than ever with my heels. The sport in
whose history I hope to live, is not on the wane, notwithstanding the
lukewarmness shown at the two first meets. Yesterday was a day
of the old sort, one in which I should have been proud to have taken
part, and my spirits are raised accordingly, for I feared much from all
I saw and heard of the two previous chases, that the grand old sport
was on its last legs. Not only were there but a few men and horses
who really went according to my ideas of the old form, but I am told
that a certain sporting oracle of a contemporary of yours, threw cold
water upon those who went to the front, and invoked the memory of
the old days in which I figured so prominently, to back up his fault-
finding, and spoke contemptuously of the course to train horses for
steeplechasing. Woe be the day that any man who had seen me go in
my prime should complain of the wretched pace there was shown in
the iwo first meets — or that my followers in the sport should be debarred
the chance of feeling the pride I do, in having been the school-master
of so many good steeplechasers — I supposed the times were changed,
and my friends who used to buy young horses make cross-country nags
of them and ride them themselves between the flags, were replaced by
others who import steeplechasers ready-made and jockeys to ride them
too, thinking it out of their line to ride anything faster than a slow
canter, over jumps not too big. But yesterday and the exercise of a
little thought h.ive shown me my fears were groundless, for had we not
a splendid run then ? I thought that perhaps this sporting oracle was
a fresh hand in the pig-skin, and that by-and-bye he would gain courage
and not wait until holes were knocked in mud walls, hurdles floored and
fences generally dilapidated, before he allowed his steed to shove him
along. For the present, if I am right, he should stick to the horse of the
style of his beau idenl Milkmaid, and have patience and take courage.
Well, yesterday from my point of vantage, I saw a goodly gather-
ing of the right sort. There were The Young Un on his handy
honest black ; your genial straight-going noble Captain on Lancer ;
a gallant Colonel on Clarion ; the Bank representative on Crushing
Luck ; the sporting vet on Temperance ; a roguish specimen of my
race, who on the two previous occasions declined most resolutely to
carry another rider over the course, his welter brother aspirant on his
tandem leader as of old, the Father of the human race on Beeswing ;
Happy Jack's old owner on Young Ballarat ; the German and
French representatives, Jorrock's former master on a varmint looking
grey ; your sporting solicitor on Colac, the sporting Oracle on his
weight-carrier ; Milkmaid with her new owner up and other good
men and true.

i68

The paper was laid by the owner of Warwickshire Lad and
another gentleman. The meet was at the Old Kennels and the finish
at the same place as on the two former occasions. When
time was given, Colac, Temperance, Lancer, The Young
Un, S. Black and Crushing Luck led the van and streamed
away. The first three jumps were taken safely, although a good
many floundered at a smartish drop with a bank and brambles, on
the near sides. After the fourth jump the varmint grey was running
riderless, and Jorrock's former master was out of the run, worse luck,
for I have often gloried in having him at my girths in former times ; then
the field streamed on, The Young Un at its head with the Sporting
vet and Crushing Luck's rider attending him. Soon after the latter
left his horse one side of a wall and got over the other side himself.

Here Temperance wanted to stop to bear him company, but
his rider struck his rowels home, and kept him going in the Black's
wake, followed by Lancer and Beeswing, and so on merrily they
went ding-dong. First the Black, then Temperance and a non-Lancer
leading alternately, and by-and-bye, the Bank representative having
remounted, got to the head of affairs. By this time The Young Un's
horse had had enough, although his rider rode like a good man and
true, and, biding carefully on Crushing Luck's heels were the noble
Captain and the Sporting vet with Beeswing a little in the rear.

At the last hurdle it was evident the place of honour lay between
Lancer and Temperance, and after a sharp tussle the sporting
vet landed his horse in front. So ended a glorious day to me, for
I had soared far above my present place into the realms I some time
ago lived in and honoured.

Mephistopheles.

i

1880-81.

The first paperchase of the season took place on Saturday, and as
this was the initial meet, it cannot but be looked upon as a very success-
ful one. It must be remembered by those who were not there to see for
themselves that the country is still very holding, and in most places the
long crops are standing, so that the promoters had considerable difficulty
in finding a line of country suitable to their purpose at all. All things
considered,the course was a decidedly good one, and the straggling nature
of the finish fully accounted for the state of the ground, and want of con-
dition in the nags. Next chase should see a marked improvement in both.

The paper was carried by Messrs. Alipore and Latham, the latter
riding that perfect little horse The Weaver and the former Young
W. P. who should make a nice horse in time. The field was rather
over than under average number, many new faces swelling the ruck. A

169

number of the old hands also turned out, some to ride and some to see
Among the field were prominent Mr. Barnagore on his clever hack and
jumper Black Diamond, Mr. Edward on that good little mare Di
Vernon, Mr. Leatherhead on Norseman, the Captain on Gang Warily,
Mr. Nagrom on Orlando, and good old Patchwork with his owner up,
Marshall, Brunette, Reindeer, and a lot of old acquaintances took more
or less share in the proceedings at one stage or another, but we shall
have more to say of doughty deeds on their part, when further into the
season.

Of Saturday's chase, suffice it to say, that Mr. Barnagore,
Mr. Edward, and the Captain went away at a slow pace, accom-
panied by Mr. Nagrom, who, having graduated on a mad horse like
Mephistopheles, found the big bay a handful and a bit over, the field
following and refusing in a leisurely sort of fashion. This state of things
continued till the Captain and Di Vernon's rider overshot the paper
and carried the majority of the field with them or after them, allowing
Black Diamond to get clean away, and win as he] liked, despite the
spirited rush of Di Vernon, when her rider was able to get within hail.

The last hurdle looked a teaser, but luckily for more than one
" pumped out " chaser it gracefully yielded and allowed all and sundry
to go over, or through, as suited their fancy.

The leaders, Messrs. Barnagore, Edward, and Leatherhead, cleared
the fence as they usually do everything in the course, but with the
exception of Patchwork, everything else had a hard rap at the sticks.

Our paperchases are growing in popularity, and we hope to see a
more closely contested finish next week.

When people go to see a circus or other acrobatic performance, they
generally pay for their fun. To this world-wide custom the Calcutta
Paperchases appear to be a brilliant exception. Here a limited number
of gentlemen perform at times almost acrobatic feats, for the benefit
of a certain portion of the Calcutta community, the money for the
necessary apparatus generally coming out of the pockets of the acrobats.
This morning our worthy Secretary, to whom with Messrs. Alipore and
Barnagore, we ought to be much indebted for preparing the way for us
this season — was not in his usual place, being only a spectator. It
struck me he was making mental, if not real, notes of those persons
present, who do not subscribe to the Paperchase Fund, and I should not
be surprised if he were requested to send round the book to such non-
subscribers, excluding of course ladies, gentlemen in charge of ladies,
and the representatives of the Press, Why the few (alas ! the sorry
^w ) should do most of the pay and all the play, is a question some o f
the Calcutta public can best answer.

One of the Acrobats

November 2()tk, 1880.

170

The second Paperchase of the season took place yesterday, the
meet being at the Todepore Station of the Port Canning Railway, and
in every respect it must be considered a most successful one. The
field was a goodly one, the course a pretty one, and the concourse of
spectators the biggest on record. The paper on this occasion was
carried by Messrs. Barnagore and Alipore, two of our oldest and best
performers at tne game, and we need scarcely add that horses and men.
performed their parts to perfection.

The lie of the course, which began at the Thanna afforded unusual
facilities to spectators, who were able to see the early part of the hunt,
and then by riding back the Gurriah Hat Road to be in at the finish.

Directly "The Captain" who held the clock, gave the "Off," the
whole crowd got away well together, Doctor Durrum Toller on
Bucksfoot leading the way, Mr. Edward on the rare good little
paperchaser Di Vernon, and Mr. Mac on Nancy, forming a sort
of connecting link between the sporting set and the general ruck.
Crossing the road for the second time Bucksfoot was pulled, leaving
Nancy with the lead, which she only held, however, up to the next
fence, where she refused persistently. Mr. Mac was not to be said
"nay," and with little loss of time the grey mare's tail disappeared into^
the jungle amid the plaudits of the lookers-on. From this point the
course wound its way along the high ground past the old Ballygunge
Race Course on the left, and for a third time impinged on Macadam.
Little Di Vernon had by this time taken command, accompanied
by Mr. Leatherhead on Nawab, who fenced as flippantly as ever,
Patchwork being in close attendance, apparently ready to go to the
head of affairs when wanted, and fencing superbly. Of the ruck the
Captain on a young one, a Zulu on Marshall, and Mr. Poollwallah on,
Trinity, were alone conspicuous — Mr. Mac having lost his favourite
sola topee which we are glad to hear he subsequently recovered, and
the Doctor finding at any rate one tree in the wood harder than his
cranium and not wishing to put his knowledge box to further trial,,
retired. Mr. Sniktaw on a big jumping bay came in for a fair share of
both notice and applause. If one irreverent on-looker did suggest
cobbler's wax, the enthusiastic hunter heard him not ; and as we saw hin^
later in the chase sitting back like " PAnson" over a drop fence,
we venture to prophesy that on future occasions he will be able to
dispense with the adhesive and leave no room for either daylight or
criticism.

The run in for the finish was in the straight which skirts Smith &
Co.'s steeplechase course, and three horsemen only emerged from
the Thicket to take part in the actual race : first Mr. Edward on
Di Vernon leading easily, the learned Judge coming along second,,
apparently in no hurry, Patchwork with bellows to mend third. The

171

mare won as she liked, and her rider was deservedly congratulated on
his first win over a country.

We understand from Mr- Latham that he intends to levy a double
subscription on spectators, and we hope to see this induce many after-
dinner riders to join the hunt and go through with it. Another hint
we would give the energetic Secretary, and that is, that any one not
going the course, but cutting all corners, utilising short cuts and then
nicking in for a share in the finish, as we have observed a man on a
bay (not a big bay) do, should have his subscription quadrupled and the
Maidan Tout told off to watch him in future.

The Dum-Dum Races will of course be the great attraction next
Saturday, so we suppose the next Faperchase will take place on
Monday.

The third meet of the season took place yesterday morning, the
meet being at the Kennels on the Gurriah Hat Road. The attendance
was unusually large, and, as the course began on the pucka, and ended
nowhere in particular among the deepest recesses of the jungle, the-
following was a good bit above the average, for to see anything at all,
you had to follow the paper. The hares on this occasion were Messrs.
Alipore and Latham, whose horses made very little bones about the
fences which were apparently rather smaller than usual. This may have
been fancy however.

Starting from Khaguz Kul the course swept down the road towards
the railway, and after passing throu;.;h the compound of an empty
tenement, curved round and emerged on the main road, some half a
mile further on. After sticking to .Macadam for a little distance, it
again disappeared in the jungle on the opposite side of the road, skirted'
the " Sheep-pens" and hit off the well known Red Road, and for the
third and last time again entered the jungle through which it wended
its tortuous way, till, as lucidly described by an ardent chaser,
" it was brought up by a big wall behind which there was not
anything." , ,

The hares were accompanied on their journey by a "quiet cove'
on a likely looking bay "colt" of two years' experience which should
turn out a nice handy little horse when a year or two older. To do
The Young Un justice after one fall he fenced beautifully throughout,
his owner sitting back on him like an old gentleman playing his pet
instrument in his favourite arm-chair. After twelve minutes^ grace, the
field, and a goodly field it was at all events at first, got away in a crowd,
and hustled one another down the road. The first hurdle choked oft a
good many who had only come to see the fun, and when the chasers-
emercred on the road their numbers were reduced by nearly half,.

172

Mr. Edward on little Di Vernon, and Lord William, having a good
bit the best of it.

Between this point and the open by the Red Road tailing went on
increasing, and reports were current as to unfair riding on the part of
those who should have known better. A rider who shirks jumping
should, to put it mildly, at all events keep out of the way of those who
really mean business— there was one bad spill caused by a jostle of this
kind yesterday.

As the chase entered the jungle for the third time Mr. Leatherhead
also got a cropper, Norseman coming to grief in a little " grip " he
could have stepped over, Fortunately no bones were broken, and the
ruck swept on, the pace at this point being too hot to admit of stopping
to pick up the pieces. Throughout the hunt the pride of place was
pretty much left to Mr. Edward and Lord William, the pair at the last
running a dead heat for first. Lord William Beresford, whose horse had
overreached badly, spared his good nag the last hurdle, so the honour
and glory go to Di Vernon's straight riding owner. Turning to the
horses that went best Patchwork, Gang warily and a Government House
looking bay, were conspicuous.

The fourth meet of the season took place yesterday morning, the
meet being at the " Khaguz Kul," where a goodly company assembled
by seven o'clock. The morning was peculiarly fine, unlike a Ballygunge
morning altogether, being bright, crisp and clear, so that those who
went out, whether to ride or to see, not only enjoyed themselves
thoroughly, but brought home with them an appetite for breakfast, to
khansamahs appalling. The course on this occasion was more of a
gallery one than last time, but this in no way lessened the number
of the field, while it left quite enough over and above to constitute a
crowd at the winning post. The paper was carried by Messrs.
Latham and Barnagore, or rather would have been, had- not the
latter gentleman's syce left the saddle bags at home, which made
the scent less holding than usual. The pace throughout, despite
the paucity of paper, was hotter than we have had it yet, and more
than one man who overran the paper had a long stern chase home, in
good solitude. At the double— a forniidable obstacle in its way— many
a chaser met a check and ultimately found it easier to go round than to
go in and out. A few minutes after the leaders had left the obstacle
behind them, a cheery voice was heard singing out to a gentleman on
a chestnut who was vainly endeavouring to negotiate the jump,
"Allow me. Sir !" It was Mr. Blue Bag, Q.C., on his slashing black.
Gaily he came on, the way clear, a fair field and no favour determined

173

to do or die, but his crock regarded matters from quite a different
point of view— a buggy point— and swerved so badly that his gallant
owner nearly left the farm. Again and again did Mr. Blue Bag return
to the charge, endeavourmg to bring his steed to the scratch by the
use almost of incontestible (thick stick) arguments and legal lore until
at last, wearied by the long address, and persuaded against his better-
self, the tired out war horse elected a nonsuit— and had the lep !
Vultus est index a7nvii.

Mr. Edward, Lord William, Captain Fitzwilliam, Mr. Patchwork,
Mr. Mac and Nimble " Parlman " divided the honour and glory of
leading the hunt pretty fairly between them, but the little brown mare,
although twice disappointed, always had a bit the best of it, and her
rider having an idea whereabouts the finish was, had no difficulty in
scoring another clever win.

There is no doubt that all contending for " the win " should have
a fair chance of knowing when to make their effort, and we think that
the promoters would find it a good plan to mark the second or third
fence from home by flags or otherwise. This would help to brino the
field together at the finish and ensure a struggle for the lead.

The fifth meet of the season took place yesterday, the fixture bein'^
Jodepore Station, a good way out for a Monday morning rendezvous.
Punctuality has never been a conspicuous element in our Paperchases ;
but when it conies to over half an hour's grace, it begins to strike one
that it's going just a bit too far. Of course, in these fine cold mornings
a chase could be run at noon just as well as at any time, but when anv
hour is advertised, it would be as well to stick to it.

The courses this year have, as a general thing, been rural to a
fault, for to be quite successful a Paperchase should have a bit of a
gallery somewhere or other — better at the finish than anywhere else.
Yesterday after crossing the line of rail at Jodhpore (shortly before a
train passed by the same token) the course made as nearly as possible
a bee line through the jungle for the Rifle Butts at Ballygunge, ending
under a big bamboo clump near the level crossing. There was a good
deal of talk about heavy going, but with the exception of two short
stretches, where the going certainly was " ponky," the course was a
particularly good one.

Spills there were in abundance, grief beginning so early as the very
first hurdle, where Mr, Hatband Merlot cut a voluntary. A little
further on old Exeter slipped with Lord William, the pair going to grass,
and the very mixed fence accounted for a trio of aspirants to Paper-
chase honours.

174

With these exceptions the field kept pretty well together for about
a third of the distance, after which lagging became the order of the day,
Patchwork and two of the Government House party alone being able
to maintain the pace. From this point onward this trio ran right away
from the ruck, first one leading and then another, all three horses
fencing faultlessly.

None of the three can be said to have had much the best at any
period of the chase, which was any one's till the last thick bit of jungle,
where the member for Hurlingham apparently regardless of trifles like a
broken neck, stole a march on Patchwork and the Captain, winning
the most closely contested Paperchase of the season from Patchwork,
Captain Fitzwilliam a good third ; the field beaten off.

The holidays have interfered somewhat with our report of these
popular meetings, and we have to hark back to Monday, the 27th of
December, to maintain the even tenour of our notices. On that occasion
the bags were carried by Messrs. Latham and Alipore, the former
mounted on a very fresh waler, which prevented his rider laying down
his quantum of paper. Starting away from the Old Kennels, the field,
not an over-large one by the way, streamed away to the left in the
direction of the railway, and after a short drive into the jungle
reappeared on the main road only to glide away from the gallery into
the mysteries and intricacies of a dense jungle. In consequence,
frequent checks were the order of the day, but the member for Hurling-
ham rendered himself conspicuous by the exceedingly clever way, in
which he, time after time, hit off the track. Mounted on a horse, which
by the way is distinguished from others of its class in the animal king-
dom as having accompanied General Roberts on his far-famed journey
from Kabul to Kandahar, the member scored second at the finish, Mr.
Gateacre on The Cripple beating him by a short head. Kingston with
his new owner Mr. Sekyed up, came to grief, and we are afraid that
the horse has hurt his shoulder badly, Patchwork coming in for
third honours, and thus ended the Paperchases as far as the year 1880
is concerned.

The year 1881 commenced, as it should have done, right merrily.
It is true several old and familiar faces were absent, but when it is
remembered that the old year had to be escorted out and the new year
in with the customary honours, such a dereliction of duty is not to be
wondered at. There was an immense gallery, however, and the ladies
'mustered strongly. The start was at the Kennels, the course again

'75

'lying- to the left. Patchwork, eager for the fray, went off with a rush,
the Young Un on a workman-like crock next.

On getting into the open the lead was taken by Wool Saheb on
that really wonderful old friend, The Laird, who took his fences
inagnificently. The pace, however, soon proved too hot, for he had to
yield his place to Patchwork who led the way as far as the Red
Road, where, notwithstanding the yells of the gallery, his rider persisted
in taking the ditch and rail, to the end that he got himself mixed
up amongst the carriages.

Mr. Neophyte one of our newest importations, tried to hang himself
on a palm tree, but the tree would have none of him, and let him gently
drop on mother earth again, but retained his stirrups as legitimate spoil.
How on earth the stirrups ever managed to get themselves fixed into
the tree will remain for ever a mystery. There was some very heavy
galloping in the jungle, and some places were but just wide enough to
-allow man and beast to force their way through. Another peculiarity
was the frequent little banks of mist met with to an alarming degree,
one hurdle in particular appearing under the magnifying influence of
the mist, twice its size. At the finish the Government House represen-
tatives came in with a rush, resulting in a clever win for Captain Fitz-
•william on The Lawyer, Lord W. Peresford second on The Cripple,
and Patchwork a close third.

The ninth Chase of the season took place yesterday morning, the
•meet being advertised for the Juggernath Car but the actual start was
about 200 yards nearer Calcutta. The field was a large one, but we
■missed many of the cracks. Cripple, Lavvyer, Cleveland, and Patchwork
being amongst the absent ones. Government Piouse, too, was only
represented by Lord William on his buggy nag. Saturday's racing,
no doubt, stopped some, but after the races are over we hope to see
them all out again. The Quiet Cove we noticed looking none the worse
for his gallop, but his owner contented himself with looking on with the
gallery, which was a small one.

The paper was laid by Messrs. Bamagore and Jack Spraggon, the
indefatigable Honorary Secretary being on this occasion with the field,
•but we looked in vain for Mr. Alipore.

On th-e word being given, the field went ofif with a rush to the right,
of the Gurriah Hat Road, and the first hurdle was negotiated in capital
style, but the second wall disposed of Mr. Belvedere, whose horse
disappeared, playfully trying to buck off his saddle. The course after
crossing the Red Road disappeared into the jungle, and on reappear-
ing crossed the main road near the Jodpore Thannah, then down the
lane to the left, following the course of the second Paperchase, and out

176

into the open country where our first meeting ended. Mr. Collin was
the first to appear in the open on a horse, which we do not remember
to have seen before, but from the way the animal went over the double
he is evidently no new performer over country. Messrs. D'Arcy and
Leatherhead with two or three more also got safely over, but Nancy
who up to this had evidently been going well declined to have aught to
say to it, and it was some time before her straightgoing rider could
persuade her that she must. A long distance separated the first and
second flight, the latter party bemg headed by Lord Wilham (who up to
this had had two soft falls). When they did appear at what doubtless
to many appeared a formidable obstacle, refusals were the order of
the day. and one gallant horseman having negociated the first hurdle
found the second even more difficult, and in the end had to make good
his escape through one of the wings. The course now bore towards
the station, then took a sharp turn to the right, and recrossing the road
disappeared from the view of the gallery for ever. When near the finish
Mr, D'Arcy and the Captain with one or two followers overshot the
paper, and before they could recover the lost ground, the chase was
over, first being secured by Mr. Collin, Mr. Whiteboots second, and the
learned judge on Norseman third.

The pace wns not so fast as usual owing to the rather cramped state
of the course.

The meet took place yesterday at Rosedale on the Gurriah Hat
Road nominally at 7 o'clock, actually some twenty minutes later, the
hares, contrary to their wont, being on this occasion the delinquents.

The morning was a perfect one for a chasse ait papier and both field
and gallery were larger than on any occasion this season, despite the
absence of Lord William and his hard riding contingent. The paper
was carried by Mr. Latham and Captain A. D. Sea, the latter riding
Shamrock, who jumped in his usual grand style. The field com-
prised most of our local leaders of the hunt, if we except Mr. Patch-
work and the absent owner of little " Di Vernon" who has not put in
an appearance by the way since the first day at Ballygunge when she
fell with poor " Stuffy," breaking his right collar bone and left arm.
Over a paperchase course it is impossible to throw her, and very difficult
indeed to catch her, and with a little schooling there is little doubt but
that she would turn out an equally safe a)id speedy conveyance over a
country. But to our Paperchase. Mr. Alipore on his W. P. joined the
field on this occasion, as did also Mr. Barnagore and Mr. Hilldale on a
handsome black, which has received a good amount of schooling for the
business at Mr. Latham's hands, but many of our debiita?it sportsmen for
some reason or other stuck to the pucka, whilst others threw up the sponge

W7

after the excitement of the first burst died out in them. This is not as it
should be, and it is comforting to know that a number of youthful aspirants
to glory in the pigskin have arranged to get up a sweep for first of their
number over the last fence next chase.

The jumping was above the average yesterday, notably of
Gangwarily, who won, Nancy who goes kindly in no hands save
her owner's, Black Diamond and Mr. Hilldale's mount, while the funny
business was ably conducted single-handed by Mr. Sedgwick. It is
wonderful what a difference a very trifling anachronism at a fence
makes. There could not have been half a second between the funny
man and the old mare at the mud wall, up to which the human had
always a little bit (a nose or a solah topee say) the best of it ; but the
former putting on a spurt when he viewed the obstacle, beat the mare
by a nose ; the result — the mare goes home disgusted, riderless, and
her bereaved owner is left reclining on a dewy mud bank — an Indian
" Posilethivaite^'' sick of paperchasing, and thinking of the cock-tail he
is bound to miss I The course laid out was generally pronounced the
best of the season ; it was not a purely gallery one, nor did it like a
previous one end in the deepest jungle shade. It was more a huntino-
course than any of its predecessors, and was appreciated almost equally
bv the flyers and the lookers-on. Starting from *' Rosedale " the
first jump was discovered in the open, a turn to the left through a bit of
jungle disclosing a niud wall, after which the course curved round to
the right, and after crossing a variety of fences, muds, and naturals,
emerged on the Station Road by Smith's old paddocks, in the open
space by which stood two formidable walls, where the funny man
elected to enact his role. A sharp turn to the left and on through the
jungle brought the field with "The Capting" Mr. Mac and Mr.
Leatherhead in the van, past the brick kilns on the left, over the water
jump {sic it was only a puddle), and one more turn into the leafy to
bring the field into the open by the Red Road with their heads turned
homeward. Mr. Mac's grey mare was first recognisable as they
appeared from the jungles ; but a refusal at a wall had lost the mare a
lot of ground, and the steel had been taken out of her in making up
her leeway, a fact " The Capting " is too, good a horseman not to turn to
his own advantage, and it was soon evident that Gangwarily was
pulling over the mare who, however, saved her character by racing
home most gamely, only being beaten by a length, Mr. Padesian a
good third, and what has not been customary, a large proportion of the
field well up ; the learned judge leading and cheering on the ruck.

The tenth meet took place yesterday morning at 7 o'clock, the
advertised fixture being the kennels, but the actual start, as last week,
B, CPR 12

178

was at Rosedale. The paper was carried by Messrs. Barnagore and
Jack Spraggon, and the assemblage of both followers and on-lookers
was much above the average, in fact every thing held out promise of a
good morning's sport. These early hopes were not, however, destined to
'be realised, as the course turned out to be a very indifferent one.
Most people agreed in pronouncing last week's course the best of
the season, and yesterday there appeared to be an equally general con-
sensus of opinion in pronouncing that day's the worst. We owe a debt
of gratitude to the disinterested promoters of our favourite cold weather
morning amusement, but they will pardon us for asserting our rights to
a free born Briton's dearest privilege, a grumble, when things don't go
exactly to please us. The main object in laying out a course is
undoubtedly, to make it a good one to ride over, but it should not be
altogether lost sight of that a large percentage of subscribers to the
pastime take almost, if not quite as great an interest in seeing a " lep "
or two from the road, and then hurrying off with some chance at all events
of seeing the finish, as do the most consistent and enthusiastic followers
of the paper. Did the fact of a course being a gallery one in any way
detract from its excellence in other respects, we should not for a
moment advocate the Macadamizer's cause, but when the fact is that
the fun of il e thing is materially enhanced by the presence of a gallery
at some point or other, notably the finish, we certainly think that those
of us who, as Mr. Posilethwaite unfeelingly puts it, have not the pluck
to try or the ability to sit, over fences (whether with or without the
natural aid a bridle is supposed to lend) are entitled to something for
our money. Talking over yesterday's course a disappointed spectator
suggested that next time the paper should be laid from the Chandney
Chowk and in bye-lanes to the Cathedral. If we are to have it on the
pucka, why not give the Tramway a turn. We are sure Mr. Souttar
would make a reduction on taking a quantity and convey spectators
from find to finish for an anna a piece. But to yesterday's chase ; the
course diverged from the High Road by a narrow lane opposite
'' Rosedale" which it left a hundred yards further on to negotiate a cast-
iron field and a mud wall on the right, after which it turned again in the
same direction to introduce a hurdle and a half finished bamboo theatre.
Having disposed of these miscellaneous obstacles, it emerged on the
pucka to which it stuck until a considerable distance beyond the Rail-
way, when it turned abruptly to the left across the Brick Fields and
past the Rifle Butts, ending at the Village Cross Road just beyond
Ballygunge. Owing to the tortuous nature of the course, the pace was
scarcely so fast as usual, and in consequence of the difficulty experienced
in finding the paper which was repeatedly overrun the field was spread-
eagled to an unusual extent. A trio got away at the start, the ruck
'headed alternately by Mr. Leatherhead and Mr. Durrud on Colac who

179

■jumped in his old Warnambool style overrunning the scent, and practi-
cally the issue of the chase was confined to these members, as the field
never got on terms with them. The finish between the three was close
enough to be exciting, and wDuld have been closer still had Mr. Kin^s-
man's mount not stumbled badly within sight of the last hurdle. As
lit was, Mr. Mac's mare, Nancy, who was ridden most resolutely
throughout by her sporting owner, won pretty easily from Mr. Hilldale's
handsome Young 'Un, who should make a chaser by this time next year,
Mr. Kingsman a good third. Falls were more numerous than usual,
several of our very best men on the pick of our paperchasers coming
•to grief, while one or two ponies, especially Venus, went the course to
'the admiration of every one.

The meet on Saturday was at the Jodhpore Thanna on the C/urriah
•Hat Road at 7 o'clock, and a goodly array of Calcutta's fair women and
brave men turned out with unusual punctuality. The paper was carried
'by the " Notlimah Brothers" riding Mr. Hilldale's black and J. M.
The course was by every one out pronounced perfect. Not onlv was it
over a fine line of country with a variety of good fences, but the finish
brought riders back to where second horses and traps were waiting to
iake them back in time for ofiice, no small consideration with a Monday
mail-day. In addition to this the Gallery enjoyed peculiar facilities for
seeing with very little trouble a larger proportion of the course, and thus
getting across to the finish which was most happily chosen, the course
■terminating with what the immortal Jorrocks terms, "an unavoidable
lep " where a more than usual amount of fun was afforded. Some
people take their comforts with them everywhere, and why not paper-
chasing, but when you do organize a seemingly faultless " bundobust, '>
■it is hard if things get mixed. And yet it does occur, or a man who
lends out three horses and spare saddlery, not to mention gharries and
other precautions, would not have to get a lift home collecting his
reUnues en roufe. " Douglas, Douglas why didst thou leave me" falls
;flat after the touching appeal of Charlie's heartsick owner to his recal-
citrant steed, but then Cabulees are ungrateful.

The following was not so numerous as on some occasions, but men
were evenly mounted which prevented falling and a straggling finish.
■Of course there must be leaders in every chase, but on Saturday the
leading quartet — consisting of a hard riding red coat'on old Telegram,
Mr. Mac on Nancy who was not going quite kindly, Mr. Nilloc and
Lord William on Oliver Twist — were unable to stave off a very imposing
ruck who, led by Mr. D'Arcy, took everything rough and smooth
without a check, and were close up at the finish. It is getting close upon
Cup time now, and judging from the fields we have out, the struggle
■this year for the trophy should be a grand one. Warwickshire Lad, so

i8o

long faa'l^ prtnce/)s a.t the g^me had he not broken down, would have-
met adversaries quite worthy of his steel in Telegram. Oliver Twist,
The Cripple, Bachelor, Di Vernon, Patchwork, Nancy and a host
of other nearly first class nags. As it is, the race for the Cup is a very
open one. If funds allowed it would be a good thing to have a second
chase over the same course, for all horses adjudged second class, country
brf^ds and galloways and ponies of all classes. There is a large propor-
tion of paperchasers who go well and regularly every meet, who have
not the very ghost of a chance against the flyers of the hunt, and if our
suggestion finds favour with the powers that be, we feel certain that a
very good race will be the result. There is a proposal on foot, we
understand, to have a day's sky racing, why not have it at Ballygunge
where a good flat course and natural "lep one" are both ready to hand ?
The new race stand is practically dismantled, so there is no inducement
to stick to the maidan. But the Saturday's chase.

At twenty minutes past seven tmie was called, and the field led by
Messrs. Mac and D'Arcy raced away down the road, turned into the
jungle in the right and after negotiating two hurdles and a wall,
emerged in the open byjodhpore Station, all now together, Mr. D'Arcy
leading. It was a pretty sight to see the field negotiate the three
jumps in the open, and on-lookers owe a special debt of gratitude to the
gentleman on the Grey who gratuitously threw in the wire fence by the
Railway. Nancy forged ahead after the first hurdle, but refusing later
on jostled ]Mr. D'Arcy's mount, the pair being put out of the first flight
by the cofitretemps. Crossing the road the course took down the parallel,
hollows on the Calcutta side, where a diversity of fences had been built
including a water jump and a most uncompromising drop. Turning
back to the right, the field was together, led by Messrs. Mac, Hopkins
and Kingsman, who raced into the open by the Alipore Lane over a
bund, a hurdle and the unavoidable crossing bunds. Telegram ran
wide and Mr. Kingsman speedily took advantage of his adversary's
detour, handling his mount in the most artistic manner. The old chest-
nut's turn of speed was, however, too much for him ; and Mr, Hopkins
once in the straight sent the old horse along sixteen annas and got first
over the last fence by a length, Mr. Mac third, and Lord William who
was fast catching the leaders a good fourth. The enthusiasm displayed
by the field was something to be remembered, one gentleman beating his
horse easily by a waistcoat, another finding his horse unable or un-
willing to accept the ultimate obstacle, going on alone. The chase
altogether was most enjoyable, and will long be remembered both by
those who rode and those who looked on, as the jolliest we have had
for a very long time.

Paperchases do not make cold weather any more than do swallows
constitute summer, still the advertisement of the Paperchase Cup day,.

i8i

which is the closing meet of the season, has a way of suggesting a

•decided tendency hotweatherward, and conjuring up visions of perspiring

'men and reeking horses, that is far from pleasant to lovers of our

popular cold weather amusement. The penultimate meet took, place

on Saturday, the meet being at the Juggernath Car, on the Gurriah Hat

Road. The field was not so large as usual, one or two likely Cup

■ horses being reserved for Friday. The paper was carried, as on the

last occasion, by Mr. Latham and his brother, the course starting from

the Juggernath Car, along the road side, till the lane on the right made

a detour in the country practicable. It then inclined to the left, passed

the sheep-pen on the left, crossed the Red Road, and after traversing

'the open, disappeared again in the jungle in the direction of tlie old

Ballygunge steeplechase course, and ultimately brought the followers

to a mud wall, a hurdle and a goodly gallery, within a stone's throw of

where it crossed the Red Road originally Shortly after leaving the

pucka, the course was bounded by a straggling bamboo and palm

■clump, festooned with an unkindly creeper which, we regret to hear,

has temporarily spoilt the beauty of Brasspot Junior Sahib, who

instituted a too searching inquiry into its composition. The accident

was one that might have occurred in any morning ride, and the injury,

we are glad to hear, is not serious. We were sorry to see Colac's

sporting owner, who is usually there or thereabout at these chases

ireduced to wheels ; the result of a bad spill received in schooling

a Young 'Un. Falling on the maidan is very different to the easy

tumbling the more generous soil that Ballygunge affords, and this time

'the earth did not feel all the pain. But to the chase. The usual coterie,

accompanied by Jack Spraggon, assumed the lead, holding the pride of

'places among themselves by turn, till a regular howler robbed them of

Mr. D'Arcy's society. Telegram went uncommonly well throughout,

and had apparently no difficulty in taking the lead and keeping it, but

Oliver Twist's noble owner was biding his time, and coming with a

cheering rush at the hurdle just beat the old chestnut by a head,

Mr. Nosredneh a good third.

The race this year promises to be something quite out of the
common, no less than thirteen sporting owners having declared to try
conclusions between the flags. The most cursory glance at the horses
will show that many are very nearly first class, while there is not a
single nag among the lot without pretentions to being something more
ilhan an ordinary hack. The following are the entries :—

1. Mr. Hilldale's ... Magog.

2. Barnagore's ... Black Diamond.

3. Capt. Curzon's .*• Copeck.

. Lord W. Beresford's ... Oliver Twist,

5.

Mr.

Collin's

6.

Mr.

Hopkin's

7.

Mr.

TrailUs

8.

Mr.

Young 'Un's

9-

Mr.

Walker's

lO.

Mr.

Mac's

II.

Mr.

D'Arcy's

12.

Mr.

Barton's

13.

Mr.

Anderson's

182

... Black Prince.
... Telegram.

Di Vernon.

Gipsy,
... Cinders.
... Nancy.
... Escort.

Marshal.
... Commotion.

So far as quality goes, Telegram and Oliver Twist are decidedly the
pick of the basket ; but when owners choose to ride horses of that class
hroughout a season's paperchasing, I cannot see what reason anyone-
can have for cavilling at their starting for the Cup. Next to them come-
Nancy, Magog, and Di Vernon. The first name is undoubtedly of a
very flippant fencer, but her temper is so uncertain that popular as the
win would doubtless be, it is scarcely a safe investment to back her.
Magog is a fine raking horse, and shows a lot of quality, but is scarcely
quick enough yet to make more than a good bid for success. Di
Vernon is a good little mare, and although not as fit as she might be,
will be there or thereabouts at the finish. She has scarcely ever been'
known to make a mistake paperchasing, and her owner, we all know,
rides as straight as man could. Black Prince, Black Diamond, Commo-
tion, and Gipsy, who showed a turn of speed the other day, few were
disposed to credit her with, are a good bit above ordinary paperchase
form, while Marshal, Cinders, Escort, and Copeck are all tried per-
formers at the game. Every horse going has got a fair chance for the
Cup, and I confidently expect a great race at the finish between
Telegram, Oliver, Nancy, Di Vernon and one or two of the luckiest of
the ruck.

The paper will be carried by Messrs. Latham and Muir on the-
Weaver and Afghan, and as the course is an essentially gallery one, it
would be well worth any one's while to go all the way, if only to see-
these two accomplished horsemen cross the country.

1881-1882.

The first Paperchase of the season took place yesterday morning,
the meet being at the Ballygunge Railway Station of the Calcutta and
South Eastern Railway, at a quarter to seven o'clock. For a first meet
the field was a strong one, and although the course was by no means a
gallery one, the attendance of the macadamizers was considerable
The paper was carried by the Honorary Secretary on Peter and old
Patchwork's former owner and rider in many a hard-fought chase, on
Morning ; but the former was unfortunate in meeting with an accident

i83

from his horse over-jumping at the second hurdle, and the bags had to
be transferred to Quiet Cove's saddle. The change of course put a
considerable hole in the ten. minutes grace allowed, which was increased
still further by the "Old Man's" having to speak his mind to a more
enterprising than skilful equestrian who carried one of the fences on the
course clean away for his own private delectation, before the field came
up. I did not witness the occurrence myself ; nor do I know who was the
unfortunate recipient of the old man's just wrath, but I overheard one
Aryan brother remark to another, ek sahib bohiit galle pya, and have no
manner of doubt, but some one caught it. The result was that the
leaders of the field overtook the paper-carriers, and ultimately beat them
when, the quick-eyed Mr. Pedestrian spotting the gathering, whiclr
indicated the final obstacle, raced for it with Dr. Durrum Toller.
But to return to the start. A goodly field had gradually collected in the
lane, among whom were several of the fair sex, of whom three were
particularly well-mounted and went like birds, one joining the first flight
and staying there throughout. When time was called, the field, led by
Black Prince and Temperance, after negotiating a hurdle, had to cross
a bund only wide enough for single file, where more than one eager rider
got his feet wet- After crossing the brickfields, the line went over <*
nice natural country through some gardens, where the fences took a
good deal of doing, and where several of the wash-ball-seated came to
grief, then emerged on the open on the far side of the line within sight
of Jodhpore Railway Station, when, as many old frequenters of Bally-
gunge will recollect, a rather trappy blind ditch wends a tortuous course
and across the railway, the finish being over a hurdle within sight of the
thannah at Jodhpore. Owing to the Honorary Secretary's mishap, the
course of events throughout the chase was, as may be i^nagined, some-
what mixed, hares and hounds coming in indiscriminately from all direc-
tions, hounds leading easy ; but every one out seemed to be uncommonly
well satisfied with themselves, their horses and their morning's sport.
Throughout the early part of the chase. Black Prince, Temperance,
and Mr. Pedestrian's useful black showed the way, but they overran the
paper, letting up Champion, Gipsy and Burgundy, who were lying
handy. The leading trio, however, picked them up again without much
loss of time, and when the field appeared in the open, Mr. Pedestriarr
was leading, with *' the doctor " at his heels, a fine race between the pair
resulting in a win for the "Bounding Jockey" by a head. Black Prince
third and Gipsy fourth. The next detachment was led by Champion,
Rob Roy and Burgundy. Falls were very numerous, but no one was
much the worse, although Cleveland's sporting owner had a nasty fall in
the blind ditch already noticed.

So early in the year it was with difficulty that a course could be got
at all, but a week makes a marvellous difference at this time of the year

184

and the going at next meet ought to be about the best we get in this
pavt of the world, so I expect to have to chronicle a bumper meet and
lots of fun next week.

The second meet of the season took place yesterday morning, the
meet being at the old kennels. The fixture was unfortunately dated, as
the St. Andrew's Dinner overnight (and morning too for the matter of
that) and the Ballygunge Association Meeting at the same hour,
prevented a large number of the usual following from putting in an
appearance. The course too was a particularly bad one for the lookers-
on, as it left the vicinity of the pucka at the start and finished in space,
or anyhow, in a not very accessible jungle path. It would have been
easy enough to fetch the paper along the lane, and finish, as last time,
in the open, and I don't know why this was not done. I am well aware
how difficult it is to get a course at all at this time of the year, but still
I am disposed to think that the promoters of our most popular cold
weather pastime are a little apt to lose sight of the fact that a very
considerable proportion of the subscribers give their countenance and
their rupees in order to see, rather than participate in ihe chase. They
are easily satisfied too in this respect, and are at present, at all events,
c[uite contented if they can see, say, a couple of fences, at the finish.
Later on, when the ground is drier and free of standing crops, they may
wax more exacting, but then the facilities for gratifying them will be
very largely enhanced.

The paper was carried by the Jumping Brothers, and I need not
add that the field did not on this occasion beat the foxes home. The
field, from causes already alluded to, was a small one, and the finish,
barring the leaders, a straggling one. In trying to account for this
latter, the casual remark of a Cannie Scot that the course seemed "a
tirly-wirly like," afforded one assistance. The line was a pretty
straight one for so early in the season, but no doubt an over-conscien-
tious observance of his duty to his patron Saint and an excess'of sugar
in Colonel Fergus Graham's last brew, caused more than one staunch
Caledonian to deviate a little from a bee line. Mr. Pedestrian was again
to the fore on his now well-known paperchaser, winning at the finish
cleverly from Mr. Rajpore, "the Major" on his victorious hurdle racer
securing third place. Mr. Mac's brilliant fencer Rob Roy would have
had something to say to the finish had he not gone in for the "tirly-
wirly" business, in the wake of some misguided Scotchman, just before
the last fence. The fences were smaller than last week and casualties
were consequently fewer, still there was plenty of jumping and any
amount of fun. At the same time, I heard more than one complaint as
to the thrusting riding of a young gentleman, who shall be nameless (if

iS5

"he doesn't do it again). It is bad enouoh rushing in amonjjj men at a
ifence, or in a close place, but when ladies .^et jostled, it is high time to
'interfere. We have an uncommon big follo»ving on the pucka this
season, and I hope all onlookers, as well as riders will send their ten
rupees to Mr. Latham, instead of putting that hard working promoter of
sport to the trouble of collecting it piece-meal. When gentlemen
undertake the usually thankless office of Honorary Secretary to anything
at all, it is very hard if those for whom the amusement is provided, do
■not make things as easy for them as possible. J^erb. Sap.

The third meet of the season took place yesterday morning, the
meet being at Rosedale, on the Gurriah Hat Road at 7 a.m. The
morning was fortunately cold and clear, and the following unusually
large, owing in a great measure to the accession of the (iovernment
House party, but in the gallery there was a most decided falling-off,
-and it is readily accounted for by the fact that the line of country
selected on the last occasion rendered seeing anything at all, on wheels,
an utter impossibility, and it very likely leaked out that the course
yesterday was of a like, or, from a macadamizer's point of view, still more
heinous nature. Of course, the first claim to consideration vests in the
followers of the paper, and, as I have already said, it is difficult until
'later to get a course at all, so the skirters and roadsters must, I suppose,
wait for their turn later on. The course was a particularly tortuous one,
the first part consisting of a game of follow-my-leader down a lane where
•only one horse could find foothold at a time, which gave those first away
a great advantage over their fellows ; then suddenly diverging at rihgt
angles, the first flight must have rudely disturbed the matutinal medita-
'tions of a rural Bengalee, whose house, by the way, the "Bounding
Jockey" nearly let day-light into, as his horse had a kind of an idea he
was intended to have it somehow. Some walls, a drop, more lanes and
turnings and the brickfields are in view: again into the jungle ; this
time hurdles and ornamental palm-leaf transparencies with alternate
"" ponk " and " puck-dandee, " constitute the country to be crossed, the
'finish taking place at the foot of a picturesque looking knoll, on which
a crowd of our Aryan brethren formed a shivering, if not enthusiastic,
gallery.

The field got away v;ith commendable punctuality, a group of the
'best-mounted, comprising the invincible " Bounding Jockey," Dr. Durrun;
Toller on Temperance, Mr. Lowlander on " Lawrence," Lord William
on a cobby brown that many will recollect as a good performer in other
hands last year. Archer on "Gipsy" and" Mr. Cochin China ' on a
•handsome bay, at once establishing a gap between themselves and the
iruck, which despite their repeatedly overrunning the paper, the

iS6

vicissitude of the chase failed to reduce. Temperance and (iipsy
favoured by their light weights went alternately to the front, and at one-
time it looked as if one or other of them would be able to turn the
tables on " Mr. Pedestrian's " successful black, but overrunning the paper
i^efore the second last fence Lord William and the " B. J." were first
to catch the "holloa '' of a dismounted mounted infantry man, and the
finish was between the two, which resulted in something very near a
dead heat, the Invincible having just a little the best of it. " Mr. Cochin-
China" a good third. Captain Sapper fourth, and Fred. Archer an
indifferent fifth.

The second group appeared to me to number many men and horses,
who with a little time will be able to hold their own with the flyers of
the hunt, and I noticed more new good jumpers out than I have seen-
at Ballygunge for some seasons now.

The fourth meet of the season took place yesterday, the fixture
being the same as last week— "Rosedale" on the Gurriah Hat Road. The
course this time, however, took quite a different direction, and afforded
on-lookers as well as pursuers a capital morning's fun. The line selected
started eastward from the main road, but recrossed at the Juggernauth-
Car, where it disappeared into the jungle, to emerge z^id the sheep-pens
on the Red Road, and after a good hit of turning and twisting with
fences of all kinds, some big and some little, it ultimately brought the
field to a capital "kill in the open " over what appeared to me to be a
particularly high hurdle, at which some very pretty jumping was seen
by a somewhat limited gallery. I do not myself see the necessity for
the present veil of mystery in which it is considered indispensable to
enshroud the finish. The idea, I believe, is to prevent any of the
followers taking a bee-line for the last obstacle instead of going the
course, but this is surely not necessary. Supposing any one yester-
day had started with the ruck, and after a bit made tracks for Jodhpur^
the chances are he'd have taken about as long to get there by The pucka-
as did the paper hunters, and finish over the last jump from the winning
side, and I rather calculate it would be that "gent's" last appearance
at a chasse au papier. I think the management might iiive all professed*
followers credit for an intention to go the course and let it be generally
known to the large number of those who came out to see where to go
to see it.

The fences were not any bigs;er than usual, yet grief was epidemic,,
and this was caused, no doubt, by the pace at which the chase was run.
It is no uncommon occurrence to find a man looking for his horse on
paperchase mornings, but this morning the order of things was reversed,
a good natured " Sandy " who had found and frozen to a riderless steed

■ 8;

bein^ much concerned about his rij^'htful owner, and addressing to-
all and sundry the, to many, I have no doubt, not very intelligible
inquiry. "Did ye see the maun wha aucht him?" There must have
been some good reason for the falling about, or that fine horseman
'* The Capting,"' whom I Wjis glad to see again among the field,
would not have been "playing boss" as I'm told he was, nor the
straight going "Mr. Cochin China" reduced to riding Shank's mare.

It would be difficult to say, who took the lead throughout yester-
days chase at its different stages, as almost all the best mounted had
a cut in at one time or other. The " Bounding Jockey " went away with
his usual rush, but his proverbial good fortune on this occasion appa-
rently deserted him, and he was thrown out early in the hunt, with a
knot of good men who are usually bandy about the finish in his wake.
His rival on last occasion, Lord William, was as usual lying by ready
to take up — when others overran — the paper — with our crack lady rider
on "Claret" v.hom nobody else can get to fence kindly — Mr. Nilloc,
on Black Prince, " The Capting " on the Poona Prize Winner and Archer
on Gipsy in attendance. The lie of the paper appearing to indicate a
finish in the same direction as on ist December, the leaders flashed
over the scent and left Lord William to win as he liked : Mr. Nilloc
second, Mr. Jasper Polly — famous on his jumping mare — third, the
rest practically nowhere.

Among the ruck I noticed some remarkably fine fencers, notably a
bay cob of Mr. Vanrennan's who, unfit as he was, flew over the last
hurdle as if he'd not gone half a mile. Some. of our paperchasers
might do worse than go in for him.

Yesterday's chase will, I have no doubt, long be remembered as
the "Lady's Day" of Paperchasing in Calcutta, why? Pll tell you
later on. Our cold weather this year has been peculiarly fitful, blowing
hot and cold without any sort of system, and laying the clerk of the
weather open to rather more than a suspicion of temporary insanity.
Yesterday the morning was, however, singularly propitious, which
inclines me to the belief that the clerk although prone, in his moments
of mental obliquity, to play pranks on racing, has still a soft side left
to Diana. Be that as it may, the morning was all that one could wish
—cold, clear, and crisp— and the chase, the most successful of the
season. The course was much more open than usual, and consequently
more pleasant to cross. The field was exceptionally large, the gallery
enormous, and when I add that our " Leading Lady" (Mrs. Jim Cook—
Ed.) was first past the winning flag, I have gone a long way towards
accounting for the success of Thursday's Paperchase.

The meet was at the ruins of the Juggernauth Car on the Gurnah
Hat Road, and I do not recollect ever having seen the road so crowded

1 88

with horsemen and vehicles of every description from the Lieutenant-
Governor's well-appointed mail phaeton and Lord William's coach —
to the humble ticca.

Punctually to time, the paper put in an appearance, carried by the
" Jumpin>i Brothers,'' who at once proceeded to business, accompanied
by those on wheels, and the greater number of the on-lookers who had
got the tip that a good view of the chase could be got further down the
road — a tip which facts did not belie — as just before reaching the junc-
tion of the Red Road we came upon a good strong hurdle with an
uncompromising bamboo along the top, and a mud wall, both of which
obstacles the paper-carriers took like their morning gram. A few
minutes later a tremendous rattling down the road announced that the
field had started, and a few seconds brought them in sight, " Mr. Grenoul "
on a marvellous jumping pony that should have something to say to the
Pony Hurdle Race at the "Holiday Sky Meet," and Mr. "Mount-
flummery " on Mr. Mac's flippant fencer " Rob Roy " leading, Captain A.
de Sea, Mr. Nilloc, the " Bounding Jockey" and "The Major" in close
attendance. The leaders, as usual, made short work of the fences, but
the Gallery was treated to a magnificent display of fancy horsemanship
by some of the ruck, an enthusiast being left reclining when we moved
on to the finish. I could not help thinking, as I drove on, that the first
hurdle, like the Frenchman's Robin, would last that sportsman the
season if his reins held out.

After passing the open, the course bent round to the right, intro-
ducing a double and the Red Road to be crossed, then through a bit
of jungle, and again into the open in the popular locality for finishes,
from which it again disappeared in the direction of Tollygunge, being
brought back by a counter-march over some moist m.ud walls, a water
jump, another double, and a final hurdle to the neighbourhood of the
sheep-pens.

The pace throughout was quicker than ordinary, owing in a great
measure to the open line judiciously selected. Captain A. de Sea, Mrs.

and Mr. Cochin China racing for the lead, but a crofrper put

the last mentioned practically out of court, although he arrived in time
to cut a second voluntary at the last hurdle, before more than half a
dozen horses, and the plucky boy, who seldom blimders, no doubt fell
from sheer exhaustion. I expect, however, to see him take a very
forward position in the paperchase hurdle Cup on Wednesday next.

When the field hove in sight, Captain A. de Sea was leading,

Mrs. close behind. Lord William just closing a considerable

gap on " Advance." Nearing home the leader was evidently in trouble,

and Mrs. calling resolutely on old " Champion," sent him

racing pace at the final hurdle, which he cleared a length ahead of
" Mariner," Lord William whom everybody was glad to see out again,

1 89

although certainly none the better for his nasty fall last Thursday, a fair
third.

The next lot comprised Mr. Alountflnmmery on Rob Roy, "The
Major," the " Bounding^ Jockey" and "Mr. Cochin China" who got
rather a bad "collar bones " looking fall over the last fence.

I hope to see a number of our Faperchasers perform between the
flags at the Holiday Meeting on the 25th, for which I am glad to hear
entries are fast coming in already.

The Paperchase on Saturday last was, despite the fog, which was
very late in lifting, one of the most successful of the season. The meet
was at the sheep-pens on the Red Road, and the course was so arranged
that spectators could see, not only both start and finish, but a goodly
number of the obstacles in the run. These facts doubtless leaked out
overnight, as the (iallery was the largest I have ever seen. The meet
was advertised for 7 o'clock, but deluded by the fog, which contrary
to its wont, was much thicker in town than at Ballygunge, a strong^
contingent including the Government House party and the paper, took
things so leisurely that it was half an hour after time before a start was
effected. The paper was carried by Messrs. Lloyd and Latham on
Shamrock and " J. AL,' and the following was both numerous and well
mounted. Among them were the " Bounding Jockey," who has been out
of luck lately, Mr. Nilloc on Black Prince, Lord William on his patent
safety Summersaulter, Mr. Chasma on Commotion. The Boys on Gipsy
and St. Patrick, Mr, Gateacre on the Cripple, Mr. Sniktaw on Blank,

and Mr. N. W. P. on a big brown who showed his heels to the lot all

cup horses and men, with the usual ruck, to refusing country breds and
set-to-partner " Teutons " — who this time were, however, fortunate in not
upsetting any one. The absence of our " Leading Lady " was regretted
by all, the more so from its cause. The course was a particularly ^ood
one, every single pursuer I had an opportunity of "discovering" being
loud in its praise, and although there were two doubles — big ones too— I
only heard of one cropper in a blind ditch. The pace for the first half of
the journey, with the exception of the first burst, was rather slower
than usual, and there was a good deal of waiting on, as well as following
my leader ; indeed, throughout the chases it struck me that more than
one good nag was slowed down a stroke for his cup chance. Quite
right too, for very few horses can stand a weekly sixteen-anna pound-
ing over an Indian country, and be very fresh on his legs at the end
of the season, just when you want him at his best. When time was
called, The Boys nipped away with the lead at a good pace, Necktie
Billy being first over the initial hurdle, with his pal in close attendance.

190

After passing the carriages the course diver^-ed to the right, over
some holding going, which in conjunction with the prudential motives
already referred to, reduced the pace to a fast canter, Mr. Sniktaw
passing the leaders and losing the paper alternately. Where two lanes
met, the leaders overran the paper, carrying with them two or three
of the first of the ruck and a fairish quantity of strong language to
boot. Mr. Nilloc now took up the running, the Bounding One and the
Stranger in close attendance, the field, bar the former leaders, who
had less way to make up, being pretty well together. When the
leaders came in sight of the Gallery, it was obvious a tight fit, and as
they came nearer, it looked very like a dead heat between Black Prince
and the Stranger, but the latter, riding in excellent style, staved off
Mr. Nilloc's challenge, and won the best-contested chase we have had
this season.

The Paperchase on Saturday will long be remembered by those
who took part in it, whether as spectators or pursuers, as perhaps the
pleasantest of an unusually successful season. The morning was
positively cold — not cold enough to be unpleasant — but just enough to
make a great coat an agreeable, if not an absolutely indispensable,
accessory.

The meet was at the Old Kennels on the Gurriah Hat Road, and
the finish near the sheep-pens on the Red Road, a course which
invariably induces a large gallery, as so much can be seen on wheels.
Saturday proved no disappointment to the many who turned out to
see as the course, for a great portion of its entire length, wound in
and out in sight of the large assemblage of spectators on the Red
Road, numbering among them the " L. G." accompanied by Sir William
and Lady Eden, and two large parties on Lord William Beresford's
and the Rajah of Paikparah's well-appointed drags. The paper was
carried by Mr. Latham on "J. M." and Mr. George on old " Bachelor,"
who, although he did give his rider a tumble, looked as gay and cocky
as when he dusted their jackets over Tollygunge. The following was
not quite so large as I have seen it, but the men and horses ou't struck
me as more than usually business-like. We were all glad to see our
" Leading Lady" again gracing the field with her presence, and it was
with greater pleasure than surprise that we saw her, after leading the
greater part of the way, score her second win in gallant style on that
fine fencer " Champion."

The field comprised many well-known horses and riders ; among
them, Lord William on Mariner, Sir William Eden on a corky brown,
Mr. Boojum on old Cartwright, Mr. Leep on last week's winner,
Mr. Gateacre on the Cripple, Miss Gipsy on Burgundy, who by the
way turned a summersault at the last hurdle that would knock spots

191

•on Victoria Cook, Mr. Alountfiummery on St, Patrick, "The Major"' on
Claret, Mr. P. Ask on— well, for one part of the chase on his horse,
the remainder on his boots. This gentleman was ably backed up in
his comic conception of a chdsse an papt'er hy Mr. Kindergarten, who
like our friend the " Medium, " makes use of " Guides "-not spirits,
mind you, but solid flesh and blood -selected too, I am bound to admit,
with the utmost impartiality from amongst the field, more especially
from those nearest him. His system is this— when his mount deviates
slightly from the straight path, he is quickly brought to a sense of his
ofifending by a sharp cannon against the nearest equine, while his rider
counteracts the lateral impetus thus inadvertently acquired by a good
shove off from his rider, a hold of whose coat tails he wisely retains,
to correct a possible error in the angle of incidence, should he find it
necessary to correct his list to starboard by a similar process on the
opposite tack.

" Mr. Kilhim and Oiler" was also in great form ; but, with him, a
Paperchase is a serious business ; not a ten nnnutes' scamper before
breakfast, but a real day's work.

I left him working his passage at the up-junip, and if I did not
offer to send him out breakfast and the daily papers, it was simply
because I saw he had his hands full, and no time to devote to either.
Mr. Lauderdale on Miss President (don't let your P. D 's print this
Mess President — they made a Miss for themselves) went to earth ere
yet the chase began, but I saw the game little English m.are throwing
jump after jump behind her afterw ards in a way that looked very like
cup form. Mr. Lowlander was out on a very likely looking mare ; a
much safer conveyance than the Champion jumper, despite her
antipathy to mounted infantry which her soul disdained. Mr Jorrocks
was to the fore on his hurdle racer, Mr. Jonsin Clair on Blackbird, and
.a host of others too numerous to mention.

The start was not a well-conceived one, as the only way to the first
fence was through a narrow gateway which upset some horses and
many tempers. The first fence in the open was near the Gurriah flat
Road, where a considerable crowd was collected to witness the negotia-
tion of a rather stiffly mixed double.

No casualties, however, eventuated, and the field swept on in
scarcely diminished numbers to a big mud wall on the north side of
the road. Burgundy leading them over. Before crossing the road,
which the course did just behind Paikparah's drag, our lady rider went
to the head of affairs with Mr. P. Ask in spasmodic attendance, "The
Major," Lord William, Mountflummery, Mr. Boojum and the Gipsy in
attendance. Shortly after a second detachment, led by Mr. Gateacre
and whipped in by Mr. Jorrocks, put in an appearance, all the horses
jumping like garden thrushes. Rob Roy, to be sure, looked before

192

he leaped at the drop, but Mr. Jorrocks displayed such an obvious,
determination of going on without him that he thought better of it, and
his rider was well back in his saddle again as he rode at the next
" unavoidable lep " and disappeared in the jungle. The course from
this point appeared and disappeared from sight, at short intervals, the
flutter of a riding habit now and again intimating that our "Leading Lady"
was in her wonted place while Lord William was almost equally easily
identified by means of his elegant Corduroy Caubeen, an old family
heirloom I was told by a young scion of the Waterford family which
had succeeded to the jeopardous appointment of his many dented
EUwood. On emerging the last time some one got a regular roley-
poley, gyrating among the horse's feet like a shot rabbit. Mr. Mount-
flummery had at this point apparently the best of it with Mr. Boojum
in attendance, " Burgundy " . next, Lord William and the Major

handy, but as they came down to the last fence Mrs. let out

Champion, whom she'd only been indulging in a well-timed pull and
easily stalling off the determined, if slightly wobbly, rush of Mr.
Mountflummery sailed over the last hurdle and won amidst loud cheers,
Mr. Boojum third, Lord William fourth, and the Major fifth. '' Burgundy"
but for the main portion of the last hurdle being represented by a single
bamboo, might have been third. As it was, he and his rider set to
rivalling the Empress of the Arena, luckily without damage to either
horse or rider.

So ended the best Paperchase it has ever been my lot to see.

The penultimate Paperchase of the season came off yesterday, the
meet being at the Jodhpore Thannah. As it was generally known
that a number of men were keeping their horses for the Cup, much
was not expected of yesterday's chase, but contrary to expectation, it
was most successful, and eventuated in a very near thing between
two of the favourites for the Cup on Thursday next. Jodhpore is a
longish way from home to meet, but a good many laggards having
been left out in the cold more than once this year already,
punctuality was pretty well observed, and the road between the
Thannah and the station was crowded with all sorts of vehicles,
including three drags, by the appointed hour. The paper was carried
by Messrs. Lawrence and George on J. M. and Shamrock, but their
bags appear to have been but sparsely furnished as the •' scent " gave
out before they reached home. The field, despite the fact that Cup
horses were being eased off, was a very large one, and there were
many likely performers ridden out among them, " The Major " on Claret,
Lord William on Mariner, the '' Bounding Jockey," Mr. Nilloc on Black
Prince, Mr. Mountflummery on St. Patrick, Mr. Sniktaw on Blank,

193

Mr. Lauderdale on his English mare, and Mr. P — Ask on Anonyma.
The last mentioned took a prominent part throughout the chase, and
finished close up in a way th3.t fairly stamps him. a coming man.

The course began in the open on the west side a little further out.
Onlookers were thus able to see both start and finish, while some of
the more enthusiastic made their way to the first big wall which they
saw negotiated by the field led by Mr. Kinoul on his jumping pony,
in close order, and got back to the last fence pretty well pumped and
rather hot, but in plenty time to see the finish and very much pleased
with themselves for their cleverness.

Once over the wall the pony fell back and the heavy division took
up the running in which they were joined by Mr. Patchwork on Gill,
who at one time assumed a considerable lead, but overrunning the
paper gave place to Mr. Nilloc, who took them out a nice dance to a
merry tune. Half way round Messrs. Lowlander, and Mountflummery
went to earth, but the latter at all events was quickly up and on again,
as he was not far behind the leaders at the finish. St. Patrick is a
speedy horse, and beyond a doubt will render a good account of himself
on the 2nd proximo.

The paper, as I have already said, gave out before the hares had
gone the course, and they were obliged to wait to show the pursuers
the way home. When the field came in sight, the Major had a bit
the best of it. Lord William in attendance, but Claret, although
he has decidedly the foot of Mariner, is not so easily steered, and
Lord William had the inside of the turn. The Major was a bit beat,
and nearly left the farm at the last hurdle, but he made a good race of
it with Lord William, who won a pretty race all out, the Bounding
Jockey a close third.

I was glad to hear that we are to have a Chota Paperchase Cup
this season. It is, I believe, to be for all Asiatic born horses. From
what I heard the entry will be a large one, and the pace, if not quite
so fast, certainly as full of incident and amusement as the Pucka Cup on
Thursday. If it is not to take place on the same date, Saturday would be
a good day, despite the Ballygunge Athletic sports in the afternoon. It
is the last fling of the cold season, and we may as well make a day of it.

Before closing let me remind all aspirants for glory that entries
for the Pucka Paperchase Cup close on Saturday, after which none
will be received.

1882-83.

Owing to the heavy rains in October the first of the Paperchases
was delayed until yesterday morning, when a capital field met at the
Old Kennels. We noticed among the starters, the Major on Lord
Harry (a likely-looking horse for Tollygunge), Mr. Bombay on the

B, CPR 13

194

Cripple, Mr. Beresford and Mr. O'Malley, the well-dressed men, on
Brian Boru and Kepler, Captain McCausland on St. Patrick, Mr. Peel
on Red Gauntlet, Mr. Lawrence on Lady Love, Mr. Sniktaw on Rona,
"The Tougall" on Black Water, Mr. Allthere on Pilgrim, Mr. Adjutant
on the Star, the Bummer on a Rum 'Un and a crowd of others, mounted
on howling country-breds. Hart's ticcas and other fearful mokes. We
were glad to see so much beauty abroad (not amongst the riders, but in
the Gallery), who must have been amply rewarded for their early rising
by the number of spills, loose horses and elegant language that was
flying about.

The hares did not turn up till late ; the start was therefore delayed
till 7-30 A.M. At the call of time about thirty horsemen mixed them-
selves up at the first hurdle, and two or three nags proceeded on their
way riderless, the rider of Star getting a nasty black-eye during his
struggles. Then away we streamed towards the Sheep-pens, the running
being made by the Doctor, Brian Boru and Black Water, closely
followed by Cripple, Kepler, Lady Love, Red Gauntlet, St. Patrick, and
Lord Harry. The course now went through some very cramped jungle,
which proved disastrous to the chances of Brian Boru, Kepler, and
several others, who were unable to act round the corners. On we went
across the open the Gallery water-jump, at which we saw an eminent
banker qualifying for Wilson's Circus ; then over the road to a hurdle,
where Mr. Sniktaw stood on his head in a paddy field, and the Doctor
and his partner shortly afterwards went to grass, or rather to mud.
The guava-tope came next ; here the riders of St. Patrick and the
Cripple were adorning the trees with a stirrup leather and an ancient
topee. The red flags now appeared, and legs began to move, the two
last jumps being a big ditch with a wall on the further side and a
nullah, the first of which stuck up Kepler, whose rider was offering his
distinguished head gear to any one who would give him a lead over.
The field were pretty close together from the distance, but after
negotiating the last lep. Black Water forged ahead and just won from
Lady Love, who was followed by Red Gauntlet, Brian Boru, Lord
Harry, Cripple, St, Patrick and Kepler, and the usual tail of little ones. As
this was the first Chase of the season, we must give a few words of
advice to some of the riders who came out to enjoy a morning's sport.
This is, avoid standing crops. There is plenty of galloping room with-
out going through a field of uncut paddy, or any other crop, as we saw
several riders do this morning, and the result of such performances can
only be, that the owners of the crops will object, as some of them have
done already, to have their lands ridden over, and then comes the end
of the Paperchases.

We understand that Mr. H. Simpson, 2, Lall Bazaar, will receive
any subscriptions which may be sent in.

195

Owing to the return of the Viceregal party to the capital, there was
a considerable increase both in the followers of the paper and in the
spectators who defied the morning cold to witness the performances
good, bad, or indifferent, of the competitors. Many ladies yesterday
graced the scene with their fair presence, and the effect on the riders
was wonderful. We observed several gentlemen getting over their
jumps in true acrobatic style, but directly they caught sight of the flutter
of a habit they pulled themselves together with a sharp jerk, and
charged the next jump with a " do or die'^ expression on their faces.
Many, alas, paid dearly for their gallantry by parting company with
their mounts, as though the spirit was willing the seat was weak, a.id in
some cases very weak.

We noticed amongst the starters Mr. McNair on Rocket, "The
Major" on Lord Harry, Mr. Lawrence on Lady Love, Lord William on a
hunter-like animal that reminded us strongly of the game old Mariner,
Mr. O'Malley on the handsome pony Garibaldi, Mr. Lauderdale on lona,
Mr. Beresford on a handsome mare (belonging, we believe, to "The
Major," who threw most enormous leps over the fences. Mr. Bombay
on Tit, " The Tougall " on Black Water, the brothers Petrie on Skipper
and Sappho, The Doctor on a grey, Elliot and a pal or two on raw
'un's, Kilburn, one or two strangers from Government House, a contin-
gent from the Fort and the usual ruck.

The start took place on the right hand side of the road just beyond
Juggernauth Car. The paper was laid by Captain Muir and Mr. Latham
on two perfect fencers. The usual scramble took place at the first
hurdle, where Messrs. Allthere, Simpson and Bombay came to a full
stop on perfect refusers. The course now wound round to the left, over
the road and a big mud wall, in full view of the -gallery, the running
being made in close order by Lady Love, Black Water, The Doctor, and
The Skipper, then through some very cramped, not to say dangerous,
country, amongst big ditches, trees and bamboos, the first proving a
stopper to Kill'em and Oilem and two or three others, who abused each
other roundly for not giving a lead. After negotiating two more walls
and several hurdles — at one of which " The Tougall " went to earth with
a beaming smile of joy— up the road, where the leaders overshot the
paper leaving the lead to Mr. Petrie and Mr. Beresford through a thick
clump of jungle. Here The Doctor and Mr. McNair collided, both
going down like a shot and performing the remainder of the course on
foot. The red flags now appeared and the pace began to c(uicken.
The two leaders raced together to the distance, where the little mare
was beaten and Lady Love went up to the Skipper, who, however,
always held her safe and won pretty easily at the finish. So many
people claimed the empty honors of third place that it is impossible to
say who deserves them. The leading lot, however, were Messrs.

196

Kilburn, The Bummer, Mr. Beresforcl, and Mr. Pedestrian^ the second
lot being Captain McCausland, an Aide-de-Camp, Lord William, Mr.
Bertram, "The Major," Mr. O'Malley, Mr. Bombay, Mr. AUthere, and
" The Tougall."

The course on the whole was good, but some of the paths through
the jungle were dangerous, big branches stretching right across the
way, making it very dodgy business for riders on big horses. We
suppose at this early period of he season it is impossible to avoid nasty
bits, but we hope as the going gets better to see the course of a less
cramped nature.

Considerable disappointment was felt last week at the non-
announcement of the usual weekly Paperchase among the sporting
items ; the postponement, however, was unavoidable as, although
Mr. Latham had the course marked out, the natives who build up the
jumps were down with fever, and it was not thought advisable to trust
this ticklish business to strange hands. The jump builders having, how-
ever, recovered, a goodly crowd turned out yesterday to witness the
results of their labours. Sunday, apparently, was a hard day with many
sportsmen, as both the field and the gallery were below the average in
quantity, though not in quality.

The start took place at Rosedale, the paper being carried by
Captain Muir and Mr. Alexander, both splendidly mounted. We were
glad to welcome the Mem Sahib back again, and from the way in which
she got on, she still knows how to " send them along. ' Lord William
was mounted on a very handsome brown, Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders,
Captain McCausland on St. Patrick, Mr. Petrie on Skipper, Mr. Bombay
on Mr. Wilson's steeplechaser Unknown, who in spite of his bad condi-
tion showed up prominently, Mr. Beresford on Frill, Mr. Lawrence on
Ladylove, Captain Harbord on The Goat, Mr. Killus on his famous
pony, Mr. Banker on Bintang, Mr. Simpson on Good Morning,
Mr. Lauderdale on lona, Mr. Sille on Bantam, Mr. Solicitor on " Won't
you come up ?" Lord Compton and Captain Rochfort on two big ones,
The Bummer on Prodigal, Captain Schalch on Belvedere and the usual
ruck.

The start took place on the left hand side of the road, through some
very ponky ground to the first hurdle, then over the double and on
across the railway, the running being made by St. Patrick, Ladylove,
Frill, and The Goat. After crossing the line we turned sharp to the
right and through several lanes, the pace being very fast. As we came
to the open, the Mem Sahib rushed to the front, closely followed by St.
Patrick, Skipper, Frill, and the Goat. A big hurdle here brought
Captain Harbord to grief, his horse coming a beautiful purler, but
luckily falling clear of his rider. The course now went through some

197

jungle over two walls where Mr. Sille went to ground, and a hurdle
across the line and on to the gallery at the Sheep-pens ; the leaders
being The Skipper, St. Patrick and Saunteress with several others in
close attendance. A big wall disposed of Mr. Lawrence, whose mount
attempted to go through the obstacle, the result being fun for the
gallery. The finish was now left to The Skipper, St. Patrick, Frill
and Cinders. The first-named overshot the paper two jum.ps from
home, and the other tliree raced in Captain McCausland landing St.
Patrick a winner by a length from Cinders ; Frill a good third, just in
front of Skipper, the Mem Sahib fifth, and Mr. Lawrence sixth.

The going with the exception of the first half mile was very fair, but
we think, considering the earliness of the season, that the course was too
long, and we observed several horses at the finish in a very distressed
condition.

The suitability of holding Paperchases on Saturdays was amply
testified by the crowds of people who flocked out to witness the fourth of
these popular runs. If a sportsman knows that the " day of rest" is
nigh, falls are of no account ; he comes along at his jump in a resolute
fashion, and whether he comes gently or otherwise to earth, there is a
pleasant conviction in his mind that though to-day may be full of evils,
to-morrow there will be perfect peace for his aching limbs.

In spite of the ladies having to show themselves at the races in the
afternoon, they turned out in goodly numbers to cheer the hearts of
those riders, who, if they wished to shirk a jurnp, took care to do so
where the jungle hid them from the public gaze.

We noticed among the starters, the Mem Sahib on Saunteress
Mr. Lawrence on Lady Love, Captam Harbord on a puller, Lord
William on his new one. Captain McCausland on St. Patrick, Mr.
O'Malley on Gipsy, Mr. Petrie on Skipper, Mr. Cecil on Boojum, Captain
Muir on Ariel, "The Tougall " on Black Water, Mr. Nosredna on Com-
missioner, Mr. Simpson on Morning, Mr. McNair on Rocket, The
Doctor on a black, Mr. Lauderdale on lona and the usual ruck.

The start took place on the right hand side of the road, the paper
being carried by Mr. Carlisle and Mr, Latham. After the usual
scramble at the first jump the field headed for the Sheep-pens, the lead-
ing division being Black Water, The Boojum, Rocket, Morning and
Gipsy. The third jump disposed of Mr. Cecil, who landed beautifully
on a soft spot. The course for the next six jumps was in full view of the
gallery, the leading division bemg joined by Saunteress and The Doctor.
A pretty stiff hurdle here brought the Mem Sahib to harmless grief, her
mount trying to cut it badly, and on being forced coming on her head.
As the riders entered the jungle, Ariel and St. Patrick joined the
headers. Near the cactus hedge a small ditch stopped Black Water.

198

It was not big enough, however, to stop The Tougall, who shot over it
and pulled up with a puzzled smile as he observed his nag on the wrong
side. As we neared home, the pace got very fast. Skipper racing up to
the front. He was, however, unable to live the pace with Ariel and
Morning, and the former running rather wide, Mr Simpson passed the
flags first by a length from Captain Muir, Skipper, a good third, Lieuten-
ant Patrick fourth, Gipsy fifth, Mr. Nosredna was not to be denied
his bit. of fun and stood on his head at the last wall right in front of the
gallery, who seemed thoroughly to appreciate his jocular mood.

The course was the best we have had this season^ and the benefi-
cial result of avoiding jungle and shortening the course, was amply
demonstrated by the closeness of the field at the finish.

We are afraid that the Xmas festivities proved too much for many
sportsmen, as yesterday's field was the smallest we have seen this
season. Where were Captain McCausland, The Bummer, Mr. Lawrence,
Mr. Lauderdale, Mr. O'Malley, Mr. Bombay, and a heap of others?
W^e trust their absence is only of temporary duration. The gallery,
however, was in great form, many ladies gracing the scene with their
presence. They ought, I am sure, to be very grateful to Mr. Beresford
for the fun he afforded them at the start. This gentleman's mount
bucked him off most beautifully. Nothing daunted, however, he again
mounted, but only to be again sent up like a rocket. Rising from the
earth with his beautiful clothes soiled, he, with that indomitable pluck
which characterises the Waterford family, and with the assistance of a
popular and well-known sportsman, managed to start the mare, who
took him the rest of the journey like a bird, bringing him in last^ but by
no means least, in the day's performance.

The start took place to the right of the road just beyond Jodhpore
Thanah. The paper was carried by Messrs. Latham and Harbord on
Fairlie and a nice-looking brown. We noticed among the starters the
Mem Sahib on a powerful grey. Lord William on a coach herse, Mr.
Simpson on Morning, Mr. Beresford on his little mare, Messrs. Petrie
on Skipper and Sappho, "The Tougall" on Black Water, Mr. Lawyer on
Noiram, the Major on Zil, Lord Compton on a brown, Mr. Comer on a
black, Mr. Sille on a new chestnut, Mr. Boyd on a moke, Mr. Cochin
China on Telescope, Mr Gateacre on Well-Known and Captain Muir

on a bay.

The running at the beginning was made by Black Water, Lord
William and Skipper. After negotiating the second hurdle, the pace
slackened, the going being very heavy. We now went through a small
piece of jungle up the road and on the higher ground, the Mem Sahib,
Captain Muir, and "The Major " now joining the leaders. Somewhere

199

about these parts Mr. Petrie took a fancy to a little pedestrian exercise
and letting go his nag trudged manfully homewards. The course now-
passed the railway, when Lord Compton got stuck up at a hurdle, and
resumed the chase at a pace suited to his dignity. We now went over a
couple of mud walls and a hurdle, where a stranger came to earth, who
implored the public to send him a doctor, but whether for himself or his
horse was not stated. The well-known lane now appears, and Mr
Simpson (whose knowledge of the course was obvious) rushed to the
front round the corner and appeared to be winning easily. His jady nag,
however, refused the last hurdle, enabling Skipper to win, Black Water
second. Morning third. Captain Muir fourth and Mr. Gateacre fifth.

The course, bar the soft bits at the beginning, was capital, and we
hope as the ground gets drier that it may be utilised again.

We forgot to mention that Noiram put Mr. Lawyer on his back,
choosing a nice soft place for his couch.

A week of festivities and dissipations was brought to a conclusion
on Saturday by another of these popular chases. We have refrained
from making any adverse comments on the general riding of the public
on these occasions, in the hope that as the season ndvanced we might
observe a change for the better. Instead, however, of improving, the
riding, we think, is, if possible, getting worse. Of course there are some
riders who perform creditably, and we could pick out from among them
half a dozen as good as could be found in India, but the remainder sadly
need instructing. We could suggest two golden riiles " Sit back at your
jumps," and, " Dont cross," and if these are carried out, an improve-
ment will at once be observed and many unnecessary croppers avoided.

This chase might aptly be termed a lordly one, as among the
starters were, Lord Harris, Lord Alwyn, Lord William on Premier, and
Lord Charles on " one of Bill's." We also noticed the Mem Sahib on
Harlequin, a Government House Mem Sahib who rode well to the front,
Mr. Beresford on Lady Amy, Captain Rochfort on something with four
legs and a tail. Captain Muir on Kepla, Mr. Killus on his new one.
Captain McCausland on St. Patrick,' Mr. Maguire on a treasure. The
Bummer on Prodigal, Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders, Mr Mac on Rocket,
Mr. Indigo on Lowlander, Mr. Sille on a chestnut, Mr. Lawyer on his
cob, Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, Mr. Nosredna on Commissioner,
and the ruck

The start took place at the Juggernauth Car to the right of the road
in the direction of the Sheep-pens, the paper being laid by Messrs.
Simpson and Hamilton on Gill and a nice-looking bay. At the call of
time St. Patrick went oft with the lead closely followed by Lady Amy,
Cinders and Kepla. The first wall sent Mr. Kill'us to grass, and the

200

next hurdle proved a temporary puzzle to Premier. After passing the
gallery Mr. Maguire cried "enough," and tumbled off. The course
now crossed the road over a mud wall and several hurdles, and through
a bit of jungle, the only three in it being St. Patrick, Lady Amy and
Kepla, the second division composed of Lord Charles, Cinders, the two
Mem Sahibs, Lord William and Commissioner, being some dist.ince
behind. As we again came into the open the pace increased, several
sportsmen spurting to catch the leaders, who, however, were still going
strong. We now went through some more jungle, and on to a bit of
plough. Kepla and St. Patrick from here ran a match home, over a
hurdle, Prince Farrokh Shah's handsome bay winning pretty easily.
Mr. Beresford third, just in front of Lord Charles and Lord Harris.

A noteworthy feature at the chase was the fact that the horse of
a gentleman who got spilt at the second fence, kept on all round the
course, finishing well up, and after getting over the last fence trotted
quietly up to his syce and surrendered himself at discretion, the rider
having in the meantime taken his morning exercise on Shank's mare.

We were disappointed that so many of the usual followers were
again absent When are we again to see Mr. Lawrence, Mr. O'Malley,
" The Tougall," Mr. Lauderdale, the Major, Mr. Petrie, etc ? It is a
little early yet to lay horses up for the Cup, and the going now is very
good. We trust next week the field will be a bumper.

Many of the usual followers of the Chase were absent on Saturday,
bemg employed in chasing the wily pig, Lord Alwyn Compton and
Captain Muir being the sole representatives of Government House.
We are glad to notice a marked improvement in the general riding, the
rules we gave last week being well observed. There is one thing that
ought to be put a stop to at once, and that is the presence of jockeys
and stablemen in these chases. A couple of years ago there was a
rule passed prohibiting these men following, but this year we have
noticed several professionals appearing at the start, though we must
say that, as a rule, they keep well behind. On Saturday, however, it
was different. A well-known jockey and a pal appeared on two raw
walers ; the latter gentleman disappeared soon after the start, but the
former rode with the leading division, crossing and cannoning in the
most impartial manner. A wall at last brought him and his steed to
grief, and they lay together on the landing side for several seconds, thus
preventing any lady behind from negotiating the obstacle. We would
recommend Mr. Latham reporting him to his employer, and thus
preventing his appearance at any future date.

The gallery was in great force, the ladies, in spite of the number
of dances that have been going on during the past week, showing up
strongly and appearing to take as great an interest as ever in the horses
and their riders.

20I

We noticed among the starters the Mem Sahib on Harlequin, the
Messrs. Petrie on Skipper and Sappho, Captain McCausland on St.
Patrick, Mr. Beresford on Brian Boru, the Major on Zil, "The Tougall" on
a country-bred, Mr. Adjutant on a big bay, Mr. Sniktaw on Rona, Major
FitzC^erald on a smart looking bay, Captain Muir on Kepla, Mr.
Allthere on Pilgrim, Lord Alvvyn on a brown, Mr. Maguire on a
chestnut, Mr. Kill'us on his new one, and a larger number than usual of
ambitious sportsmen more or less indifferently mounted.

The paper was carried by Mr. Hamilton, junior, on a bay, and
Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders. The start was made at the Juggernauth
Car, the first two jumps being the last two of the preceding chase
Major FitzGerald went off with the lead, closely followed by Harlequin,
St. Patrick, Zil and Brian Boru. The first wall proved disastrous to
Sappho, whose rider generously did the funny business in full view of
the gallery. We now went sharp to the left down the lane and over a
hurdle into the open, the pace being fast. Skipper here joined the
leaders. The Irish Major was still at the head of affairs : his mount,
however, soon after turned rusty at a low wall, and Brian Boru and
Skipper were left with the lead through a rather cramped line of country,
the former taking Mr. Beresford all his time to keep him near the course-
As we again came into the open, we were met by a perfect crowd of
jumps of various sorts and sizes, including two doubles, several hurdles
and a drop. The leading four, composed of St. Patrick, Kepla, Skipper
and Brian Boru, now raced straight away from the field and ran
a great race home in close order. Skipper just managing to gain first
place, St. Patrick second, Kepla third, Brian Boru, fourth. The
remainder wandered in some minutes later.

We are glad to see so many of the Paperchase nags in the Horse
Show, and the style in which Skipper, Rocket, Lady Amy, Harlequin,
Kepla and St. Patrick jumped was a treat well worth witnessing, and
shows what good schooling these chases are for making fencers

The chances of the various horses for the Cup are now being
eagerly discussed. Ladylove, we are afraid, will not be fit, as she and a
pig got mixed up together, resulting in one of her legs being badly cut.
Black Water, who, in the earlier chases, carried that determined rider,
"The Tougall," so well to the front, is, we hear, far from well and likely to
be in hospital for some time to come. His owner, however, states that if
he can't win the Paperchase Cup, he means to land a mug or two at the
Athletic Sports, and as his legs are long and his arms are strong, we
have no doubt he will carry out his statement. The horses still going
who seem to have the best chances are undoubtedly Skipper and St.
Patrick, but as the newly landed horses are now beginning to get in
fettle, it is a little early yet to give a decided opinion.

202

In spite of the intense cold on Saturday morning, the attendance
of spectators was up to the average, though many of them looked as if
they longed to be under the blankets again and in the land of dreams.

The start took place at the Juggernauth Car, the paper being laid by
the Brothers Latham on Unknown and J. M.

We noticed among the starters, the Mem Sahib on Saunteress,
Captain McCausland on St. Patrick, Mr. Cochin China on Telescope.
Captain Muir on a raw-looking bay, Mr. Allthere on Pilgrim, Mr.
Harbord on a nice-looking grey, Mr. Beresford on Zoe, the Messrs.
Petrie on Milkmaid and Sappho, Captain Haines on a fidgetty one, Mr.
Rare on Rob Roy, Mr. O'Malley on his now famous steeplechaser, Gipsy,
Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders, Mr. Simpson on Morning, Mr. Sandilands
on Zoedone, Mr. Kill'us on his fiery one, Mr. Lauderdale on Morning,
The Doctor on a black, Mr. Bombay on Zil, Mr. Mac on Rocket, Mr.
Rivers on Magpie, Major FitzGerald on his bay, Mr. Sniktaw on Rona,
Mr Bertram on his cob, Mr. Lawyer on Tailless, " The Tougall " on
Bantam, Mr. Boyd on his moke. Captain Rochford on a ditto, and
several strangers, who, however, did not distinguish themselves one
way or another. At the word " Go" we dashed down the road sharp
to the left, and over a hurdle and big wall in full view of the Gallery,.
Cinders led over the first two jumps, closely followed by Zoe and
Captain Haines As we crossed the road Mr. Pedestrian's mount
turned rusty, and the Aides-de-Camp went on with the lead for some
time, followed by Zoe, St. Patrick, Saunteress, and Rocket. After going
through a bit of jungle we went over several jumps, the course winding
to the left, Mr. Sniktaw, somewhere in the dense jungle, went to earth.
We now came to the two wide ditches, which stuck up Mr. Beresford and
Mr. Bombay for a period. The leaders were now St Patrick, The Doctor
and the Mem Sahib, the pace being decidedly slow. As we neared the
water jump two sportsmen shot ofif, one to the right and one to the left,
evidently considering a cold bath an unpleasant prospect. Mr. Allthere
tumbled off, but we believe his mount kindly landed him on dry ground.
A mud wall soon afterwards disposed of the Irish Major, who nimbly
landed on his feet. We observed Mr. Cochin China soon afterwards
doing Pedestrian's business. After going through a small clump of
jungle, we appear in view of the gallery and the leaders quicken their
pace. When it came to racing, however, there was nothing in it but
St. Patrick, who coming away at every stride, won by about a street,
his owner's face beaming with smiles of joy. Cinders who picked up in
the last mile, second, Rocket third, Magpie fourth, Saunteress fifth.
The course was as near perfection as could be, and every one appeared
pleased with it. As the going this season is much softer than usual, we
hope the Cup chase will be deferred as long as possible, as once Lent
begins, Paperchasing will be the only dissipation left to us.

203

The many festivities which are now taking place are, we fear,
beginning to tell their tale, as the number of absentees from these chases
is increasing It is impossible to sit up till 2 a.m., day after day without
becoming more or less of a wreck, as many wan faces and weak seats
yesterday morning amply testified. We heard one sportsman state that
he had no time for more than one ride a week and that was at the
paperchases. How, he asked plaintively, was he to get his horse fit ?
We comforted him by reminding him that the peaceful time of Lent was
rapidly approaching and horse-trainmg would then be easy.

We were glad to see that the best jumper in the show last week was
that fine paperchaser The Skipper, and we must congratulate his owner
on his success ; it was a treat on the swagger day of the show to see this
horse stride over the leps well piloted by his owner.

The chase yesterday was very devoid of excitement, spills being
quite the exception

W^e noticed among the starters the Mem Sahib on Saunteress, Mr.
Pedestrian on Cinders, Lord William on Premier, Mr. Sille on a bay,
Mr. Simpson on Morning, Mr Lauderdale on Night, Mr. Petrie on The
Skipper, Mr St. Quintin on Something, Captain Haines on a nice-looking
bay, Mr. Adjutant on Star, Mr. AUthere on Remyat, Major FitzGerald
on his nice-looking bay, Mr. Premier on The Goat, The Doctor, Captain
Rochfort and Mr. Harbord, all on nice-looking hunters, Mr. Beresford
on Zoe, Mr. Sniktaw on Rona (who appears to have lost all the brilliant
form she showed last season), Mr. Ross on Rob Roy, and the usual ruck.

The paper was carried by Captain Muir and Lord Alwyn The start
took place near the Old Kennels and then the line went straight away to
the right through some very cramped country, the running being
made by Zoe, Captain Haines and Saunteress. As we came into
the open near the Sheep-pens the jumps became numerous, two stiff
doubles proving stoppers to many. A mud wall brought Mr. Sille
to grief, who hung on to his nag's neck for several seconds un-
decided whether to go on or tumble off suddenly. However,
observing that the ground was soft, he went to earth like a common
ball and lay on his back with his legs in the air till he found no
bones were broken The course now wound into the galloping lane, the
Mem Sahib now being at the head of affairs, Cinders, Zoe, Captain
Haines lying next. After crossing the road the Mem Sahib, who was
leading easily, ran up an unnecessary bank, which utterly destroyed her
chance. The Skipper now rushed to the front and led the field a merry
chase till near home when he missed the paper for a moment. This
proved disastrous to him, as Cinders and Zoe rushed passed him and
ran a grand race in, the former, in spite of Mr. Beresford's vigorous
finishing, passing the flags first by half a length. Skipper a similar distance
off third, Captain Haines fourth, the Mem Sahib fifth.

204

The course was not nearly as good as last week, the first part being
almost entirely through jungle ; this, however, was balanced by the last
mile, the country being open, the going good and jumps numerous.
We must give a word of praise to the hares for the capital way in
which the paper (as long as it lasted) was laid, making it almost impos-
sible to overrun, and saving the leading sportsmen much anxiety.

Paperchasing will not be the only sporting event this week as we
observe that a sky meeting is to be held next Saturday. Judging from
the capital extra meeting we had last year, we anticipate a good
afternoon's sport. The Stewards are all riding men and well up to
rheir duties, and will spare no trouble to make the meeting a success.
We hope the public will aid them, both by entering their horses and
persuading as many people as possible to attend, as we believe the gate
money will be the chief source of funds, no subscriptions being asked
for. There are to be two pony races, one for 12-2 and the other for
13-2 ponies. Considering the number of ponies in Calcutta at present, to
say nothing of the half hundred the sporting Twenty-Third are reported
to have located at Dum Dum, big fields should turn out for these two
races. The other items in the prospectus are a Hurdle Race for
bond fide paperchasers, which is sure to fill, though we would suggest
the advisability of the Stewards clearly defining what a bona fide paper-
chaser is, as it may save trouble afterwards ; a Handicap for Arabs.
Country-breds and Waler Galloways once round the course ; a mile
open for the Military, weight for price, and a Hurdle and Flat Race
open to the world. The last ought to be well patronised by the horse
importers, as horses that run forward and not too heavily priced are
sure to find purchasers. We hope to see many of the paperchase
riders earning fresh laurels on this occasion.

We suppose it must have been the bitter cold which kept so many
people away from the chase on Saturday. One sportsman told us
privately that he had been keeping himself warm for the 'last few
days by continual drams of cherry-brandy, while a rumour was circu-
lated that two new arrivals were seen enquiring the price of skates at
the Great Eastern Hotel. The fun began by Mr. Harbord mounting
a nag somewhere near the Body Guard Lines, He was no sooner
in the saddle than the animal said " Go," and go he did, about eighteen
annas through a crowd of carriages and horses, his rider luckily
keeping his wits about him and avoiding collisions in the most miraculous
way. We believe, however, he got back to Government House in
time for dinner. An idea got about that the finish was at the Sheep-
pens, and the gallery posted down to that well-known spot. Finding
no red flag, however, they tore down the road for several miles, but

205

at last giving it up as a bad job, they trudged homewards, while many
big big D's floated on the misty air. They found out afterwards that
the finish took place at the spot where the chase started, which we
think might have been better managed.

The paper was aid by Captain Muir on Skipper and Lord Alwyn
on a bay. We noticed among the starters, the Mem Sahib on Saun-
teress, Captain Haines on Manchester, Mr. Lawyer on his cob. Lord
William on Premier, Mr. O'Malley on Gipsy, Mr. Lauderdale on Night,
Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Mr. King on Lady Amy, Mr. Nosredna on
Commissioner, Mr. Brandy on Kepla, Mr. Beresford on Zoe. Captain
McCausland on Zil, The Doctor on Sealskin, Mr. Sille on a chestnut
Mr Kill'us on his Butcha, Mr. Apcar on a grey, " The Tougail '' on
Bantam, Mr. Boyd on Le Moke, and several strangers as yet unknown
to fame. None of the old Polo Club were present, as we believe they
were being made beautiful for ever by Messrs. Bourne and Shepherd.

The start took place at Rosedale in the direction of the railway,
the running being made by Zil, Sauntere^s, Zoe and Manchester,
After going over two hurdles and a big double, we cross the line and
counter warily through some jungle to the right, Premier and Lady
Amy here joining the leading division Several more leps were
negotiated, when Zil and several of the leaders overshot the paper.
This let up Magpie and Sealskin ; the latter's glory was short-lived, as
catching his feet in some roots he went a regular crumpler, his plucky
rider luckily escaping unhurt. The course now went round in a
circle, the jumps being numerous. Mr. Lauderdale and Mr. Apcar
here tried a collision, and the former went to grass. He was up
however (with about half a mauna of mud) in half a minute, and
was soon again with the field. We now recrossed the line, through
a lot of jungle and finished over the first two hurdles. Mr. Rivers
landing Magpie first, the shifty Zil. who was well ridden by Captain
McCausland second, Captain Haines third, Premier fourth, followed
by Zoe, Ciipsy, Lady Amy, Night and Commissioner. The course was
not an improvement on the last week's chase, as it wound about the
jungle in the most disagreeable way We noticed many horses cut
about the legs, which is not to be wondeledat when part of the going
was over old pots, bricks, etc. We suppose, however, we must not
grumble as, owing to the hardness of the ground, it is difficult to make
a course like those we rode over at the commencement of the season.

We suppose it must have been the bitter cold which deterred so
many sportsmen from putting in an appearance on Thursday morning,
as it was most decidedly (among the followers) a case of quality not
quantity. Perhaps the races on Saturday may have decided some of

206

the owners lo give their nags a holiday. The gallery were again out
of it, as very few people turned up to witness the finish. We would
suggest to the Honorary Secretary the advisability of advertising the
finishing spot, as well as the start, as it must be very annoying to the
ladies to drive up and down the road searching in vain for the red
flao-s, while they hear afterwards of the fun they have missed in the way
of spills, collisions, etc.

We hear that the races on Saturday promise to be above the
average sky-meetings, as capital entries have been obtained and large
fields will most likely appear in most of the events ; the going now is
very fair, and we trust the public will attend in large numbers. We
would also remind them to bring some loose cash with them as the
book-makers, we believe, intend doing a little business, and the totaliz-
ator will be in full swing. We are unable to give any direct tips, but
we fear that Government House will be bad to beat in most of the
events. The start yesterday was near the fifth milestone in the direction
of the Railway. The paper was laid by Messrs. Harbord and Simpson,
the latter on Gill.

We noticed among the starters the Mem Sahib on Harlequin,
Mr. O'Malley on Unknown, Mr. Beresford on Zoe, Mr. Nedraw on
a chestnut. Captain McCausland on Saunteress, Mr. Apcar on a grey,
Mr. Primrose on The Goat, Lord Alwyn on a nice-looking bay. Captain
Rochfort on a fiddle-headed brown, Captain Muir on his bay, Mr.
Rivers on Magpie, Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders, Mr. Boyd on Le Moke,
Mr. Lauderdale on Night, Mr. King on Lady Amy, Mr. Nosredna on
Commissioner, Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, Mr. Nosredneh on a
brown, Captain Haines on Manchester, the stranger on a grey and a
small ruck.

At the call of time Harlequin, Saunteress, Cinders, and Zoe jumped
off with the lead, and after negotiating a couple of leps we went through
a patch of jungle and out into a long stretch of open. A hurdle here
caused some fun, Saunteress, who had apparently fallen in love with
her gallant rider, eloped with him in the direction of the Salt Lakes,
while Mr. Nedraw's mount landed him softly on his back. The leaders
were now joined by the Government House contingent, and we took
the next few jumps without any accident. The field streamed gaily
onwards until they came on a stifl" wall with a big ditch in front of it.
Here the spectators had fine fun. Cinders got over somehow, but his
rider went the next hundred yards beautifully seated on his neck, while
the Mem Sahib got stuck up, and Mr. O'Malley embraced his steed in the
most loving way. One sportsman nearly knocked Zoe off his legs, and Mr.
Beresford, while recovering him, interfered with his noble kinsman who
did not seem to appreciate the touching compliment. Night jumped Mr,
Lauderdale on to his head and the crimson flowed from his aristocratic

207

nose. But the fun was not yet over, for up comes Mr. Nosredneh calm
and cool, but his calmness was considerably ruffled and the coolness dis-
appointed, when his mount bungled and sent him a flopper on some soft
clay. We now went over several big ditches, a couple of walls, and a
hurdle, and then pounded down the road, Captain Rochefort, Lord Alwyn
Mr. Rivers and Captain Muir being at the head of affairs ; then away to
the right over some stiff going, and on the direction of Jodhpore Thanna
the finish taking place about loo yards behind that edifice I Two jumps
from home Mr. Rivers appeared to be winning easily, but running rather
wide, he let up Captain Muir who managed to beat him for first place.
So many sportsmen claimed third honors, that we are afraid to decide
but we noticed the leading division was composed of Mr. Aocar
Captain Haines, Mr. Beresford, Lord Alwyn, and Captain Rochefort.

The course was a capital one and the going good, the pace was
fast, and the spectators witnessed much fun, which must have amply
recompensed them for their early rising.

The next meet is again a long way off, for those who have to start
from town, but at this season of the year it is next to impossible to get a
good course nearer to home. The gallery, we understand, need not
travel so far, as a good view of the finish ought to be had from the
neighbourhood of the Red Road.

The hot weather which threatened at the beginning of the week
has luckily passed away, and paperchasing is still a pleasure. Let us
hope the cold weather will continue until the Cup is lost and won.
The races on Saturday gave the public a good idea of the form of
several of the probable competitors, as the Stirrup Cup (a hurdle race
confined to bond fide paperchasers) was run for by six well-known nags.
The result is well known, Premier, splendidly ridden by his owner,
just gaining first honors from Skipper. St. Patrick who made the running
was third, and he would have been nearer had his young rider indulged
him with a pull at least o?tce during the race instead of letting the game
old horse run himself to a standstill. According to this running the
Cup appears to be a gift for Lord William, but as Premier is by no
means an easy horse to get over a country, we would humbly suggest
(contrary to the public opinion) that it is ?iot all over bar shouting and
we fully expect to see The Skipper give the gallant grey a good deal of
trouble, even if he does not beat him over a long distance.

Now that cold weather dissipations are finished we are surprised
that the number of followers in these chases does not increase.

We missed many faces yesterday who are generally well to the
front. What has become of Mr. O'Malley, Mr. Lawrence, Captain
McCausland, Mr. Bombay, Mr. Beresford, Mr. Lauderdale, etc. ? Let

208

us hope they are only reserving themselves for the Cup day, and that
we shall then see them like giants refreshed with new coats on their
manly shoulders and fresh legs on their nags.

The gallery yesterday came out in large numbers and were amply
rewarded by a good view of the last three jumps Lord Alwyn, when
close to the finish, afforded them great fun by doing the " roley poley "
business in capital style, but we were glad to see him able to ride home
afterwards, though his clothes were a piteous sight.

The start took place at the Jodhpore Thannah, the paper being
laid by Mr. Carlisle on a beautiful jumping bay, and Mr. Simpson on
Gill. We noticed among the starters the Mem Sahib on Harlequin
Mr. Killem on his fiery one, Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Lord William on
Premier, the Major on Saunteress, Mr. Sille on a chestnut, Mr. Boyd on
Le Moke, Captain Muir on Landscape, Captain Rochefort on Fiddlehead
the Bummer on Prodigal, Mr. Harbord on a brown. Captain Haines on
Manchester, " The Tougall " on Blackwater, The Stranger on a grey. Lord
Alwyn on Patchwork, and a larger number than usual of the ruck
mostly vilely mounted. At the call of time we went away to the
right of the road, and then stra ght ahead to the open ground where
a beautiful line of jumps had been prepared. At the first hurdle
Mr. Boyd who was ambitiously placed among the leaders, said he had
mistaken his position and went to grass in a sitting position. The
running was then made by the Stranger, Manchester, Prodigal, Lord
Alywn and Magpie. After going about a mile the Stranger went dov^n
and improved his personal appearance by wallowing in the mud. The
course now wound to the right, the leaders being joined by Harlequin^
Saunteress, Premier, and Landscape. Some very big walls had now to
be negotiated, and then a patch of jungle. As we emerged from the
trees Captain Muir rushed to the front and led on at a good pace in
the direction of the Red Road. Rounding the next corner the welcome
flags appear in view, and Prodigal races up to Landscape. He, how-
ever, was never able to catch the Captain, who won by two lengths,
Mr. Kill'us was third, Captain Haines fourth, the Mem Sahib and the
Major fifth and sixth. The course was splendid and the jumps big
enough to suit an Australian Steeplechaser.

We were agreeably suprised on waking up yesterday morning to
find that the cold weather had returned, and more perfect weather for
paperchasing could not have been desired. The gallery was small,
which is to be regretted as a beautiful sight-seeing course had been
prepared, and the number of spills which occurred was a caution.
This chase might well be called a ''Roley Poley" entertainment, as
sportsmen were tumbling off at almost every jump. It is impossible

209

to say how many bit the dust, but we will endeavour to chronicle ther
mishaps we ourselves witnessed. It is a strange fact that most of the
riders who do the funny business object to its being published and
also object to any details which are not in strict accordance with their
remembrance of the mishaps. One gentleman was very anory last
week at our saying he tumbled off at a wall instead of a hurdle. We
mildly suggested that we thought it did not much matter what the
obstacle was as long as he did come off, and he rode off muttering
nasty things.

We were glad to see that "The Tougall's" grand horse, Blackwatcr,.
was getting round again, and from the way he carried his rider yesterday
his chance for the Cup looks very rosy. We were sorry to hear St.
Patrick had gone up-counny to be followed shortly by his popular and
hard-riding owner, whose departure will be regretted by all. We wish
them both every success in their new paths,

The start yesterday took place near the Jodhpore Thannah to the
right of the road, the paper being capitally laid by Mr. Simpson on
Gill, and Air. Carlisle on Master McGrath. We noticed among the
starters The Mem Sahib on Harlequin, Mrs Cecil on Ariel, Captair^
Haines on Manchester, Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, the Stranger
on his grey, Mr. Beresford on the galloway Kilmanie, Mr. Apcar on
a grey, Mr. Adjutant on Zil, Mr. Lawyer on Tailless, Mr. Sniktaw on
Rona, Mr. Kill'us on Red Knight, Lord William on Premier, Mr. Sille
on a chestnut, Mr. Harbord on a brown, Mr. Rivers on Magpie,
Mr. O'Malley on Unknown, Mr. Petrie on Skipper,. Mr. Nosredna on.
Commissioner, Mr Pedestrian on Cinders, Mr. Walker on Mignonette,
Mr. Boyd on Le Moke and a heap of others.

When the lo minutes' interval was about half over, we saw
The Bummer, humbly mounted on a grey pony, charge the first
wall in grand style. The pony, however, said *' No " and stopped
short and The Bummer looked as if he was going over by himself; but the
gallant grey placed him back at the saddle with a sharp jerk, and the
pair disappeared round the corner of the wall, and were lost to our sight
like a beautiful dream

At the call of " lime '' a grand scramble took place at the first jump
when we observed Messrs. Hodgson and Miley rebounding from the
earth like two footballs. Ariel now lead us out a cracker, closely followed
by Kilmanie, the Stranger and Unknown. After racing up the road we
turned sharp to the left, Mrs. Cecil riding admirably in the front place ;;
she, however, shortly afterwards overshot the paper, and the running
was made by Blackwater, Harlequin, and Kilmanie. A hurdle
somewhere about these parts proved disastrous to Mr. Lawyer who went
to earth like a rabbit. The course now went through a small patch of
jungle, and again to the left over two big walls, at the latter of which

H, CPR 14

2IO

Kilmanie jumped short and came down. She then added injury to insult,
•by using Mr. Beresford's head as a drum, and her hind legs as the sticks.
Poor lad his beautiful clothes were soon spoilt, and his perfect collar
converted into a red rag by the crimson stream which flowed from
beneath his cap. The next few jumps were negotiated without mishaps,
and the field now headed for the sheep-pens. As Harlequin jumped
fron\ the lane into the field, the Mem Sahib had a purler and resumed
the journey on foot. Unknown, Blackwater and Commissioner were
now at the head of affairs, and galloped up the lane at a grand pace.
Several leps were now taken, at one of which Mr. Sille, missing his pal,
^tumbled off to look for him. The welcome flags now appear with a good
run home of a quarter of a mile over three hurdles. Magpie and Skipper
now raced up to Blackwater, whom, however, they could never get
near, and "The Tougall" secured first honors easily ; Mr. Rivers second,
Mr. Petrie third.

The course was capital and the jumps big enough for anybody.
The Cup v.'ill be run about the loth of March, and we shall have
something to say about the competitors as soon as we see the entries.

The fog early on Saturday morning looked so thick that it seemed as
if the chase must be postponed. Luckily, however, the weather cleared
about half- past six, and although it was decidedly muggy, it was not so
hot as might have been expected. The rains we have had lately made
the going very heavy. Perhaps, however, this is better than the iron-
like croing we generally experienced in chases at the tail end of the
season. The course was a capital one, the jungle being avoided almost
the whole way. The entries for the Cup have not yet closed, but we
hear of many starters. Several sportsmen have told us privately that
they have put their horses into strong work with the view of winning
the trophy, and what is much better, they all appear to think they stand
capital chances. We observed one man the other day tearing madly
round the course who, on pulling up, informed us he was getting his
horse fit. We humbly ventured to suggest that the nag looked a leetle
thin. He, however, told us we knew nothing about it, and started for
what he called a spurt. He finally disappeared from our sight, working
his arms and legs like an engine, and told us next day that he had been
imitating Vinall at a finish. We told him we recognised the style at
once, though we did not think that it was the usual habit of that jockey
to spur his mount about the ears or yet about his tail. The gallant
sportsman got angry at this, and so we left him, thinking what a day
we shall have if the rest of the starters are only half as enthusiastic.

The start took place yesterday on the right of the road just before
leachingJodhporeThannah, the paper being carried by Mr. Simpson on Gill
^nd Captain Muir on the great Jack, who flew the country in grand style.

21 I

'We noticed among the starters the Mem Sahib on Harlequin, Mr. OMalley
•on Unknown, Mr. Millett on a bay, the Stranger on his grey, Mr.
Beresford on The Camel, Captain Haines on Manchester, Mr. Rivers
on Belvedere, Mr. Mac on Rocket, Mr. Chota on Unknown, Mr. Kiil'us
on his pony, Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders, Mr. Allthere on Pilgrim
Mr. Adjutant on Zil, Mr. Helyaron a bay, Mr. Petrie on Black Domino,
Mr. Boyd on The Moke, Mr. Nosredna on Commissioner, etc., etc*

At the call of time, we dashed up the lane, Mr. Mac and the Mem
Saheb leading. We now turned sharp to the left and over a mud wall,
Mr. Helyar here appeared to be having a match with his horse as to
which of them could turn the greater number of somersaults. We had
•no time to stop for the finish of the e.\citing contest, but we believe it
resulted in a dead heat. We now turned again to the left, and over
a nice piece of open country, well-studded with jumps. The Stranoer
•Cinders and Manchester were now with the leaders. A wall hereabouts
.proved too much for The Camel, who never rising an inch, came an awful
purler, pitching Mr. Beresford clean on his head. He however was
none the worse, partaking an involuntary " chota hazr " off Ballygunge
mud, which he said was very filling at the price. The course now went
across the road and over some rather rough country, the only ones in it
'being the Mem Sahib, Manchester, The Stranger, Cinders and Rocket.
Two hurdles from home Mr. Mac, who had apparently waited for the
gallery to see the fun, went to grass with a flop, and a good race ensued
between the other four, resulting in The Stranger securing first place,
■Captain Haines second, Mr. Pedestrian third, and the Mem Sahib
fourth.

The Cup will be run for to-morrow, and, judging from the entries
'the chase ought to be well worth going out to Ballygunge to see. Last
year, as every one will remember, it was won by a lady, who, we are
glad to see, is again going to take the field, and,, if not first, we fully
■expect to see Harlequin well to the fore. There are altogether
seventeen starters, one more than last year, but still the names of
several hard riders are conspicuous by their absence, owing to the
various ills which horseflesh is heir to. "

St. Patrick's owner, we believe, has gone up-country, and we miss
from the list The Bummer, Messrs. O'Malley, Beresford, MacNair,
Captain Muir and the Hon. Secretary, all of whom, had Providence
been more kind, would have helped to swell the field.

Out of the seventeen who faced the starter last year only five are

forthcoming, including The Skipper, who ought to carry his sporting

•owner well to the fore, but we are afraid he is not fit enough to win with

the present heavy going. Telescope, Commissioner, Magpie and

'Cinders all good in an ordinary chase, but hardly fast enough for the

Cup day. First and foremost amongst the new chasers stands Premer,

212

who won, some say easily, at the Sky Races the other day. Zil, who
notwithstanding her owner's weher weight ought not be out of the race,.
White Star, Blackwater, Manchester and Red Knight have on several
occasions shown what good stuff they are made of.

The start is advertised for the Juggernauth Car, but we advise all
who wish to get a good view of the chase to take up their position near
the sheep-pens on the Red Road, a spot long connected with Cup days.
Unless we have more rain, the going will not be so heavy as many
doubtless expect, as the heavy rain which fell on Wednesday did not
extend so far, and we strongly advise all who can to go and see the best
sporting race in India.

The following are the entries

Mrs. Cook's

Major Cook's

Major Fitzgerald's

Mr. Irwin's

Lord W. Beresford's ...

Mr. W. W. Fetrie's ...

Mr. S. A. Apcar's ...

Mr. Petrocochino's

Captain Haines'

Mr. T. S. Anderson's

Mr. R. G. Currie's .„

Mr. TougalTs

Mr. Kilburn's

Mr. Stevenson's

Mr. Lawrie's

Mr. Probyn's

Mr. Walker's

Harlequin.
Zil.

Titaghur,
Star.
Premier.
Skipper.
Spec.

Telescope.
Manchester,
ComniissioneE.
Magpie.
Blackwater.
Red Knight.
Rustic.
Pilgrim.
Grenadier.
Cinders.

I

1883-84.

The Paperchasing season which has been looked forward to so'
eagerly by the sporting community of Calcutta, commenced j'esterday,.
and was one of the best chases we ever witnessed. Mr. Simpson who
made the courses last year has gone home, but from what we saw
yesterday we have no doubt that his successor, Mr. Walker— better
known as Mr. Pedestrian— will ably carry on the good work. At
present, owing to the standing crops, it is very hard to get a good run, but
the course yesterday was very fair, though there was a little too much of
the lane business at the start. We hope gentlemen who are riding
over the same ground on Thursday, will endeavour to avoid the crops
as much as possible, as otherwise the good Bengalis may prove trouble-
some when other courses are being made. The weather yesterday
morning was very chilly, and everybody was shivering, mostly from cold.

2 13

The gallery iTiUstered very strong, and were rewarded by a good view of
■the greater portion of the run. Falls were very numerous, chiefly the
fault of the riders, as nearly all the nags were jumping beautifully. The
start took place near the J uggernauth Car up a lane to the right, and
■then down another lane to the left. The paper was laid by Mr. Carlisle
•on Master McGrath, who fenced magnificently, and Mr. Pedestrian on
Cinders, who hit the hurdles hard and eventually brought his rider
down.

Amongst the followers of the paper we noticed the Mem Sahib on
The Laird, Mr. Lawrence on Ladylove, Mr. Lawrie on Pilgrim, Captain
■Griffiths on Donald, Mr. Gough on the Old Ass, Mr. King on a cobby
brown, Mr. Beresford on Gipsy, Mr. Boyd on Le Moke, IMr. O'Malley
on Black Boy, ]\Ir. Butler on Bellows, Mr. Myers on Silver Fox, The
Bummer on Ullmann, Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr. Decle on
Roderick Dhu, the Greek on The Villain, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap,
Captain Webb on Gazelle, Mr. Mercantile on a brown, Mr. Campo-
'bello on the Partition, Major Fitzgerald on a nice looking bay, Captain
Muir on Trooper, "The Tougall " on Blackwater, Dr. Dhurrumtollah on
Madman, 'Dr. Ditto, Junior, on Ladybird, Mr. Drydendale and Mr.
Praser on Warrigal and Banker, Mr. Stevenson on a chestnut, Mr.
'Orrell on a bay.

At the call of time we dashed down the lane to the left and then
•over the first hurdle in the open to the right, the leading division being
Blackwater, Trooper, The Laird, Gazelle, Unknown, Silver Fox, Parti-
■tion and a stranger, who charged the hurdle boldly after losing his hat
and both stirrups. He managed, however, to get back in the saddle
and then pulled up with a jerk among the carriages. This first obstacle
proved a stopper to Mr. Decle, whose horse here " stopped short, never
to go again "—at least in this chase. The field now swept on at a good
pace across the road over a mud wall and a couple of hurdles and again
into the jungle. Here a mud wall proved too much for Mr. Myers,
who resumed the journey on foot, and the Greek shortly afterwards
went to grass. We now came round to the left over a nice piece of
<:ountry, the pace beginning to increase, and Mr. Orrell taking the
opportunity of falling on a soft spot. We now got our heads in the
direction of home. Blackwater still leading with the Trooper, Gazelle,
Unknown, Gipsy and Black Boy lying handy. Here the leaders over-
shot the paper and landed in a swamp. The Bummer, Mr. Mercantile,
and Mr. Stevenson, landing at the bottom of it, while a little further up
Dr. Dhurrumtollah, Junior, and Mr. Campobello also came to grief, the
result terminating, we regret to say, fatally for Dr. Dhurrumtollah,
Junior,— better known as Dr. Woolcott of Messrs. Cook & Co.'s. The
•remainder of the field galloped on in the direction of the winning post,
"The Masher taking the opportunity to tumble off at a corner. He was

214

soon up, and apparently relished his spill so much that he did his-
utmost to repeat the performance among the carriages. His horse,,
however, would not allow him to indulge further in his acrobatic fancies.
The finish was now left to Trooper, Blackwater, Gazelle, and Gipsy, and'
they negotiated the last wall in the order named ; " The Tougall " now
shot the corner sharp, and obtained the lead from Captain Muir, whO'
was never able to regain it, and was beaten for first position by a length.
Mr. Beresford, who came with a rattle at the finish, a good third, just in
front of the little Captain who was followed by Mr. Lawrence, Mr..
Anderson and Mr. O'M alley.

The riding with a few exceptions was very bad, and we trust as the
season advances we shall have an improvement, as there is plenty of
room for it. We were sorry to miss these good sportsmen Mr. Cart-
wright, the Major, Mr. Agra, Mr, Cecil, Mr. McNair and others. We
trust their absence is only temporary, and that we shall soon see them<
again to the front.

We have been requested to add that Dr. Woolcott's funeral willi
take place at 4-30 p.m., this afternoon, from 184, Dhurrumtollah.

We much regret that our article of Friday's Paperchase was sent
into press before the writer had heard full particulars of the fatal
termination of Dr. Woolcott's unfortunate accident, and we were only-
able to refer shortly to the painful event. His death has cast a great-
gloom over the sporting community of Calcutta, as not only was he a-
great favourite with them, but he was also very popular with the-
general public, as he was always willing and pleased to take any amount
of trouble to oblige anyone who sought his services. He was only
25 years of age, and, as he was devoted to his profession, had very
bright prospects in life. He was a bold rider, a good sportsman, and
a cheery companion. We never heard any one say a word against him,
and we believe he had not an enemy in the world. The liking and'
respect the Calcutta Public had for him was amply testified^ by the
numerous attendance at his funeral on Saturday.

So deep was the regret felt by all at the fatal accident to Dr.
Woolcott in the first Paperchase, that it was decided, as a tribute to-
his memory, that no meeting should take place during the following
week. Since then we have had so much rain that the country has not
been in a fit state to ride over. Messrs Carlisle and Walker, however,
have been hard at work making a course, and the second chase took
place yesterday morning. The course was one of the best we have
ever seen, the jungle being avoided in a marvellous way. The going:
was capital, but we think the distance was a little too long, considering.

215

the paperchasin^ season has only just begun. We noticed many horses^
and riders too, done to a turn, before reaching the winning post.

The weather was cold and bright without any fog, so the attendance
was fairly good, though not nearly so numerous as at the first paper-
chase. We are glad to say there was a marked improvement in the
riding all round, and spills were few and far between.

The meeting place was on the left hand side of the road, just
beyond the Jodhpur Thannah, the first hurdle being judiciously placed,
well in the open. The paper was well laid by Mr. Pedestrian on-
Cinders, and Captain Muir on Skipper.

The field was small. We noticed the Mem Saheb on Black Pearl,
Mr. Campobello on the Partition, Mr. Peel on Snowstorm, Captain-
Rochfort on a brown, Mr. Cartwright on Ladybird, Mr. Lawrie on
Lorna Doone, Mr. Beresford on Skylark, Mr. Masher on a black, " The-
Tougall " on Zulu, Captain Haines on Manchester, Captain Harbord
on a brown, Lord AKvyn on a Baby, which we think he rode last season,
Mr. Suave on Childe Chappie, Mr. Murray on Zil, The Major on a
breedy looking chestnut, Mr. Boyd on Le Moke, Mr. Anderson on^
Commissioner, Mr. Dynamite on Stonehenge, Mr. Drysdaleon Warrigal,
Mr. Decle on Hurricane, Mr. Kilburn on Red Knight, Dr. Morgan
on Fairlie, Mr. Edwards on Whalebone, etc., etc.

The start was delayed about five minutes, owing to a train stopping
opposite the crossing gates, which accordingly had to be closed. As
soon as they were opened, the signal was given to start. At this period
a youth mounted on a roan pony who was about lOO yards in front of
the field, dashed forward over the first obstacle. We presume his
youthfulness is the only excuse for this very unsporting behaviour-
" A fair start and no favour " is considered a point of honour amongst
the paperchasing community of Calcutta.

After clearing the first hurdle, which proved a stopper to Captain
Rochfort and Dr. Morgan, we went away towards and over some
natural ditches which tried the cleverness of many of the horses, the
leading division consisting of Zil, Ladybird, Stonehenge and Zulu.
W^e now crossed the railway and turned to the left over a nice line
of ditches, hurdles and mud walls. A big ditch proved too much for
Mr. Dynamite, who lay at the bottom, while several horses cleared hun
in their stride Shortly afterwards we recrossed the railway and went
through some rather close country which enabled Messrs. Butler,
Campobello, and Peel to join the leading division. The paper was
now laid over some very open country, and the pace got slightly faster,
Zil, Zulu, and Ladybird being at the head of affairs. We now turned
to the left up a lane in the direction of the main road, after reaching
which a very sharp turn to the right brought us in sight of the last
two jumps, which were beautifully placed for the inspection of ther

2l6

•public Mr. Murray now gave Zil her head, and coming away at
•every stride, won very easily by several lengths. The Partition second,
Mr. Masher third, *' The Tougall" fourth, Ladybird was fifth, and, as she
jumped magnificently, it was quite apparent that her fall at the first
chase was entirely owing to other horses interfering with her. Captain
Harbord was sixth.

The third chase came off yesterday morning, a day earlier than
■had been anticipated. The gallery were in strong force, though we
were sorry to see so few of the fair sex present, as their presence always
-acts as a stimulant to the mashers of the field ; the weather was bright
and bitterly cold, and everyone was wrapped up to the eyes in warm
kupfa^ which was very much needed. The field was very small, owing
greatly to so many nags being laid up with coughs at this time of the
year ; a good many horses also have gone up-country for pigsticking
-during the Christmas week The course was very well selected, and
the jumps nicely placed, the going in parts was very heavy, but we can
expect nothing else after the dose of rain that has lately fallen. We
were glad to see that riders have now got some idea into their heads
of keeping their own line ; mishaps are, therefore, few and far between.

The start took place at the Juggernauth Car, down the main road
to the left, over a hurdle and a mud wall and then across the road and
a hurdle into the jungle.

The paper was laid by Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders and Captain
Muir on a rather restive bay. Amongst the starters we noticed the
Mem Sahib on Black Pearl, "The Tougall" on Zulu, Captain Rochfort
on a brown, Captain Harbord on a ditto, Mr. Beresford on Godfrey, The
Bummer on Red Rover, Mr. Murray on Zil, the Greek on The Villain,
Mr. O'Malley on Gipsy, Mr. Lawrie on Pilgrim, Mr. Cartwright on Lady-
bird, The Major on Cooper, Mr. Gough on Jim, Mr. Corrie on Stag-
beetle, Mr. Burn on a brown, Mr. Campobello on the Partition, Mr.
Boyd on Le Moke, Lord Alwyn on a bay, Mr. Helyar on Somethings
Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr. Peel on his old friend The -Skipper,
Mr. Anderson and many others whose names are unknown to us.

At the call of time we went off at a slow pace, which quickened up
a bit when we got to the first hurdle. The leaders were all close
together, consisting of Lord Alwyn, Zil, The Greek, The Mem Sahib,
and Gipsy, while the ruck were close behind. After crossing the road
we went over a hurdle and into the jungle, the pace being slow. The
Greek was now leading, but the paper taking a sharp turn he overshot
it and went into a big tree. We now left the jungle for a time, and
went into some heavy ground and over a bund, a hurdle and a wall.
Mr. Helyar was now leading with Pilgrim and Gipsy close up. The
course now wound close to a pile of bricks which most of the field

217

steered clear of. The Toiigall, however, insisted upon inspectinj^ tiiis
novel object, and we left this enterprising sportsman and his steed
rolling on their backs. We now turned to the right over some nice
open ground, the pace being very fast. The water jump now
appeared in view, and proved such an attraction to one of the (jovern-
ment House party that he missed a hurdle in his eagerness to reach ii.
Godfrey, Zil, Ladybird now joined the leaders, while the Idem Sahib's
mount began to hold out signals of distress. The paper now went
through some close jungle and into the open, where the red flags were
seen in the distance. r,ipsy now missed the paper for a few seconds,
but soon recovered it and leading over the last hurdle won hands down
by a length, Captain Rochfort, who cut a corner at the finish, was second.
The third place appeared to be between Pilgrim, Godfrey, Mr. Helyar
and Mr. Burn, who were closely followed by Ladybird, Zil, Le Moke
and the Mem Sahib. We never saw a closer finish, as the first flight
were all neck and neck about a length and a half behind the winner.
Next week we presume the Behar gentlemen will give us a show, and
it is to be hoped that the public will turn out in strong force, as there
■is sure to be a good run. Calcutta sportsmen will have to ride their
best as the Mofussilities are sure to ride very hard for first honours.

Great disappointment was felt on Saturday morning when it was
found that, owing to a parade taking place at 7 a.m., the gallant Behar
Light Horse were unable to be present at the Paperchase. The course had
been specially prepared for a big field, and the Mofussiiites would have
had a very pleasant ride. However, we trust next week that their
•military duties will not interfere with what we trust will prove as good
a chase as the one we witnessed on Saturday. The going was very
good, though rather " ponky" in some parts, and the jumps were very
well built and judiciously situated. The pace throughout was very fast,
in fact, faster than we have seen it this season ; the ruck were out of it
before going half a mile, and had only covered about half the course
-when the leading division landed over the final hurdle. Spills were
very plentiful, though we believe nobody was seriously hurt.

The start took place at the sheep-pens, and at the advertised time
for starting a large crowd had assembled on the road near ; the paper,
however, was 20 minutes late, which caused a good deal of grumbling.
The paper was laid by Mr. Carlisle on Master McGrath and Mr. Perman
•on his good old hunter Rufus.

Amongst those present we noticed the Mem Sahib on Handicap,
Mr. Cartwright on Ladybird, Captain Harbord on a brown. Captain
McCausland (whom we were all glad to see back again) on St. Patrick,
Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Mr. Allsopp on a big brown. Captain Rochfort on
a ditto, Mr. Gough on Jim, Mr. Nosnevets on Red Rover, Captain Muir

2l8

on a bay, Mr. Beresford on Godfrey, Mr. Lawrie on Pilgrim, Mr. Decle
on The Howie, Lord Ahvyn on a bay, Mr. Mercantile on Zil, Mr. Pedes-
trian on the Squire, Dr. Morgan on a bay, Mr. Peel on Partition, The-
Bummer on Lord Donald, Mr. Lennox on Nawab, Mr. Dunne on a
black, etc , etc

At the call of time we went off with a rush to the first hurdle,
which proved disastrous to one gentleman, who tumbled off after
clearing the obstacle, Mr. Decle also was unable to persuade his nag
to jump, and finally disappeared into the jungle, from which he and his
stud subsequently emerged at different periods. The second hurdle
was successfully negotiated by all, and we then swept on to the " in and
out" the leading division consisting of St. Patrick, Pilgrim, Godfrey,.
Ladybird and Red Rover. We now turned to the left, and Red Rover,,
after colliding with everybody he could, got to the head of affairs and
led the field down the pucca at a tremendous pace. A sharp turn to the
right, however, proved too much for his rider, who went to mother
earth much to everybody's relief. We now went through some nice
country and over several walls and hurdles in close order. A bit of
cramped country here brought Mr. AUsopp and his nag a regular
crumpler. The paper now led into the open. Here St. Patrick,
Pilgrim and Godfrey came away from the rest at racing pace, their riders
apparently thinking the finish was near at hand. This was, however,,
not the case, and the course going through a piece of very close country.
Handicap, Ladybird and Jim joined the leading trio.

Mr. Gough now led for a bit, but overshooting the paper enabled
Captain McCausland and Mr. Lawrie to head the field. A sweep to
the right now brought us in sight of the last lep. St. Patrick
appeared to be winning easily ; the Mem Sahib, however, was not
done with yet and catching Handicap by the head, she gave him a
couple of rousers, and the horse running as game as a pebble she
caught the Captain at the last jump and won a beautifully ridden race-
by a length, Pilgrim third, Ladybird, Godfrey and Jim all within a
couple of lengths of the winner. The rest of the field were beaten off.

In order to suit the TJehar Light Horse Rifles, the fifth Paperchase
was postponed till Saturday. Contrary to expectation, the field was a
very small one. We believe only six Mofussilites started. They, however,,
were good men and true, but their horses were unable to go the pace
with the Calcutta Juldiwallahs. We hear more would have started,
had not so many troop horses been laid up with sore backs. Many
usual followers of the paper were absent as it was thought that there
would be a tremendous scramble. As it was, however, the chase was^
entirely free from jostlery and crossing, and the ride was most enjoy-
able. The pace was a cracker from start to finish ; so fast, indeed,.

219

that the gallery had no time to reach the winning post, and the leading
division were received by a few gaping natives. We much regret to-
hear that the Mem Sahib, while changing horses before the start, was
so badly kicked that she had to proceed home. As she was present at
the Ballygunge Steeplechases she apparently sustained no serious injury,,
and we shall soon see her again in the field. It is particularly to be-
regretted that the accident occurred on this occasion as all Calcutta
would have liked the Behar men to have seen our leading lady at the
head of the field. Never have we known the weather so cold as it was
on Saturday morning, and even the competitors in the chase hardly
appeared to be warm when they reached the winning post. The paper
was laid by Mr. Perman on Rufus and Captain Muir on Trooper.
Amongst the field we noticed the following Behar gentlemen : — Mr.
Canning on Fieldfare, Mr. Dixon on the Crocodile, and Mr. Macpher-
son on a brown, also Mr. Cartwright on Ladybird, Captain Harbord
on a brown, Mr. Lawrie on Pilgrim, Mr. Lennox on the Blackguard,
Mr. Gough on Jim, Captain Rochfort on a brown, Mr. pjurn on a bay,.
Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr. Beresford on Godfrey, The
Bummer on Zulu, Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Dr. Morgan on a grey, Mr.
Butler on Lina, Major Fitzgerald on his bay, Mr. Kilburn on Red
Cross Knight, Mr. Helyar on a bay, Mr. Nosnevets on Red Rover,,
etc., etc.

At the call of time Pilgrim and Godfrey led over the first
hurdle, closely followed by Zulu, Lina, Captain Harboard and'
Ladybird.

This order was maintained till we reached the wall near the
railway, where Pilgrim refused and the running" was taken up by Zulu,
Godfrey and Ladybird. A sharp turn to the right now enabled the
field to get on terms with the leaders. A hurdle here proved too much
for Mr. Butler, who after hanging on to his horse by one leg in the most
approved circus fashion, finally sat on the cold earth with a gasp of relief.
We now crossed the road, Pilgrim again leading the field ; a double
now puzzled some of the field, especially Mr. Beresford, whose horse
jumped so big that he landed on the s^econd wall, and it took his rider
all his time to say nothing of all his bad language to recover his upright
position The paper next lay through some close jungle, and
the field had to proceed in single file. On emerging into the open
Mr. Macpherson dashed to the front, but the next wall brought him-
and his nag a regular crumpler, and we are afraid this sportman must
have had a bad shaking, as it looked a nasty fall. The course here
turned to the left over some very soft fields, the leading division con-
sisting of Pilgrim, Zulu, Ladybird, Jim and Godfrey. We again went
through a patch of jungle, and on reaching the open, the red flags
appeared about a quarter of a mile ahead, over some capital ground with

220

two hurdles nicely placed for racing home over. Mr. Lawrie now gave
Pilgrim her head, and coming away as he liked, won by several lengths-
Zulu was second over the final hurdle, but his rider pulled up before
reaching the red flags. Ladybird and Jim therefore had a race for
second place which the former gained by a neck. Godfrey, Major
Fitzgerald and Red Rover came next, and then Mr. Canning and
another Behar gentleman treated the public to a slashing finish for
seventh position. We hear that the Behar sportsmen did not think
the jumps big enough ; we would, however, remind them that as, with
one exception, they rode in the ruck, the leps were considerably knocked
about before they reached them. The one exception alluded to
attempted to lead the field over a wall, and as above mentioned, came
to grief. We ourselves think the jumps are quite big enough to afford a
pleasant ride, as it is not desirable that paperchasing should be turned
into steeplechasing. '

We regret to find that the descriptions of the paperchases which
has appeared in these columns have given rise to the querulous
correspondence which have been amusing the Calcutta public during
the last week. It must be owned that when about ten riders all come
in close together (every one of them gravely asserting that he is either
second or third) it is sometimes rather difficult to chronicle their proper
positions, but as it happens this season, our reporter has had a remark-
ably good view of the finishes, and we are satisfied that the first flight
have always been correctly placed. However, after all, people go to
these chases for a morning ride and not for the sake of their names
appearing in the public prints.

The sixth Paperchase had been postponed twice on account of the
foggy weather, and we supposed the gallery were afraid to again being
disappointed, as the gathering at the winning post yesterday was very
scanty. The field, however, was quite up to the average. The start
took place to the right of the Jodhpore Thannah about 300 yards from
the main road. The paper was carried by Mr. Perman on the'Juvenile,
and Mr Pedestrian on Cinders. Among the field we noticed the
Mem Sahib on Atalanta, Captain Muir on Trooper, Mr. Kilburn on
Red Knight, Mr. Burn on a brown, Lord Willian\ on a bay, Mr. Beres-
ford on Kirk, Mr. Mercantile on Zil, Mr. Chapman on a bay, Indigo
Billy on Blackwater, Mr. Peel on his little grey, Captain McCausland
on St. Patrick, Mr. Gough on Jim, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Mr. Stevenson
on Red Rover, Captain Webb on the Squire, Mr. Cartwright on
Ladybird, Mr. McCartie on the Crocodile, Dr. Morgan on Fairlie,
Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, Mr. Campobello on Partition,
Mr. Lawiie on the Pilgrim, Mr. Currie on Volunteer, Mr. Chota Walker
on Pedestrian, Mr. Tangee, etc., etc.

221

At the call of time the field Started of at a Strong pace, the leading
division consisting of Blackwater, Pilgrim, Jim, l^ed Knight, Kirk,
Ladybird, and the Squire. The paper led straight for the main road
but after negotiating two jumps, we found the next bend was sharp to
the right. The next hurdle brought Ladybird to grief, who in getting
on her legs, kicked her rider badly about the face. We, however, are
glad to hear that (with the exception of his beauty being spoilt for some
time) he is not seriously damaged. Mr. Beresford tumbled off a few
yards further on, and Mr. Chapman was observed tramping sturdily
homeward, through the plough. The course here went over some
very nice country with lots of jumps. Blackwater and St. Patrick
were now leading, while Captain Muir was lying near them. We now
wound round to the left through some jungle till we came in sight of
the road, the paper running parallel with it for some time. A mud wall
with a drop on the landing side proved too much for Indigo Billy,
who reached terra €rnia with great celerity, owing, chiefly, we believe,
to his saddle slipping round. The course here went over the road
in the direction of the railway, the following being at the head of the
field : — St. Patrick, Trooper, Zil and the Squire. The paper led to the
left round a thick clump of jungle, on the far side of which the final
hurdle was placed. St. Patrick now appeared to be winning, but
Captain Webb, bringing the Squire with a rush, managed to secure the
first position, St. Patrick a good second, Captain Muir third, Mr.
Alercantile fourth, Mr. Chota Walker fifth, Mr. Cochin China sixth.
The going was rather heavy and the distance long. All the horses
rapped the last hurdle in a way which showed they were pretty well
done.

The seventh Calcutta Paperchase took place on Saturday, and
afforded one of the best runs we have had this season. The going was
capital, and the distance not too long. The fog luckily held off, and
the weather was bright: and cold ; the number of followers of the paper
was small but the gallery tutned out in strong numbers, many strangers
being present. It is generally thought that the hurdles were being put
up a little too stiff, as two horses hit them and came down at once, as if
their legs had been caught by ropes. It is all right to have the first
hurdles pukka, but the last two hurdles might be put up a little slack,
especially when they are placed in ploughed fields.

Proceedings began by Mr. Charity mounting a new horse on the
Maidan. As soon as he was in the saddle down went the horse's head,
up went the back, and Mr, Charity turned a beautiful somersault. The
horse went home, and the fallen one witnessed the chase on foot.

The start took place at the Jodhpore Thannah, on the left side of
the road, the paper being laid by Mr. Pedestrian on Cinders and Mr..

222

'Perman on Paddy. Amongst the field we noticed the Mem Sahib on
Black Pearl, Captain Harbord on a brown, Mr. Burn on a ditto, Mr.
Stevenson on Red Rover, Captain Muir on Skipper, Lord William on a
bay, Mr. Meicantile on Zil, Mr. Chota Pedestrian on a black, Mr.
Peel on Blackwater, Mr. Apcar on Tambourine, Mr. Kilburn on Red
Knight, the Greek on a brown, Mr. Campbell on Partition, Mr. Ander-
son on Commissioner, Mr. Sandilands on a brown, Mr. Macartie on
Telescope, Dr. Morgan on Fairlie, Captain Rochfort and several stran-
gers, whose nam.es are unknown to us. At the call of time Lord
William dashed off with the lead, but at the first hurdle his horse fell, and
the running was taken up by Red Knight, Captain Harbord, Telescope,
Skipper, and Blackwater. The paper headed straight for the railway,
and then curved round to the right in the direction of the main road.
After crossing the road we went to the left, the leading division consist-
ing of Blackwater, Skipper, Tambourine, Zil, Telescope, and the Greek.
Mr. Chota Pedestrian and his steed were now seen separated, the rest of
the horses jumping beautifully, though some of the riders were a little
loose in their saddles. Some close country now slackened the pace
slightly, which was fortunate, as the next two walls were rather stiff.
We now got our heads in the direction of Jodhpore Thannah, Skipper,
Zil and Telescope being at the head of the field After skirting a patch
of jungle the last two jumps appeared in sight ; Skipper was now
leading by two lengths. The last hurdle, however, brought him a regular
purler, his rider luckily escaping with a shaking. Blackwater and Zil
now raced for first place, which the latter secured by half a length,
Tambourine third, a length behind, Telescope close up, fourth.

The eighth Paperchase took place yesterday morning. The attend-
ance, both in the field and on the road, was very meagre, and it seems
a pity that the chase could not have taken place on Friday, which being
a general holiday, the public would have turned out in great numbers.
The weather yesterday was bright and clear, and much cooler than
it was the previous week. We are glad to see that the followex-s of the
paper are now all riding much better than they did at the beginning
of the season, while there is a marked improvement in the jumping of
the horses. We see that there is to be a Sky Race Meeting on the
9th February, and as paperchase nags are now pretty fit, we trust we
shall see many of them competing for the events. We also hope that
we shall see some fresh amateurs' sporting skill, as if they can stick on
in a paperchase they are quite capable of performing creditably over
hurdles, and it seems a shame that, in a sporting place like Calcutta,
there should be a dearth of gentlemen riders.

The start took place on the right of the road near the Jodhpore
Thannah. The paper was carried by Mr. Perman on Paddy and

2 23

Mr. Anderson on Commissioner. Amongst the starters we noticed the
Mem Sahib on Atalanta, Mr. Kilburn on Red Knight, Captain Beiesford
on a brown, Mr. Beresford on Godfrey, Mr. Macartie on Dan, Dr.
Morgan on Fairlie, the Greek on a brown, Mr. Cochin China on
Telescope, Mr. Mercantile on Zil, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Mr. Feel on a
:grey, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, etc., etc.

At the call of time we started in the direction of the main road
•over a pretty stiff hurdle, the leading division consisting of Mr. Macartie
Red Knight, Godfrey, and Zulu. After negotiating the second jump— a
■nmd wall— we turned sharp to the right, which rather put out
Mr. Macartie, who overshot the paper. Red Knight and Zulu now led
through a piece of jungle and on to a hurdle, which they both refused,
.and the running was taken up by Zil, Godfrey, and Fairlie. The paper
now went to the right straight away over some very open countrv with
•several stiff mud walls, two hurdles and an in-and-out. Ail the horses
were jumping well, especially Fairlie, whose lepping was a treat to
witness. After skirting a bit of jungle we went over an open bit of
country in the direction of Jodhpore Thannah. The pace now was fast,
Zil, Zulu, and Faulie being the leaders. After reaching the starting
place the paper lay over the lane and gateway, and through a rather
long stretch of jungle. On reaching the open the two last hurdles came
in view, and Mr. Mercantile giving Zil her head, came in an easy first,
Zulu second, Mr. Macartie third ; Fairlie and the Greek were close
up fourth and fifth

The ninth Paperchase took place yesterday morning, the course
being about the best we have had this season. The weather was
ibright and cold without any fog ; the spectators were few in number,
-which was a pity, as it was a capital gallery chase. There were many of
'the usual chase horses conspicuous by their absence, owing to their
owners reserving them for the Sky Races on Saturday, which promise
to be unusually good, no fewer than forty-six entries having been
obtained for the six events. For the pony race nine ponies are entered,
including Chief, Gazelle, Bapta, Trout and Cinnabar, while for the
lep races Jimmy, Johnny Crapaud, Warrigal, Lunatic, etc., will
-appear, and the Flat Race will prove an interesting contest between
Rebecca, Squire, and Trafalgar. Wc strongly recommend the public
1o go and witness what will, undoubtedly, be a capital afternoon's
5port.

The start yesterday took place near the Red Road, at the place
where the Cup Chase started last year, the paper bemg laid by Mr.
Pedestrian on Cinders and Mr. Anderson on Commissioner. Amongst
those present we noticed the Mem Sahib on Beryl, Mr. Cartwright on
Ladybird, Mr. Irwin on a bay, Major Cook on Black Pearl, Mr. Kilburn

224

on Red Knight," Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr, Helyar on a ditto, Mr.
Mercantile on Zil, Mr. Gough on Jim, The Greek on Apostle, Mr. Apcar
on Tambourine, Mr. C F. Barrow on Kilmore, Mr. Rivers on Magpie,
Dr. Morgan on Fairlie, Mr. Peel, Mr. and Mrs. Chapman, Mr. Macartie,
Mr. Campbell on Partition, etc., etc.

At the word " go " Beryl began to back in the most approved
manner. The Mem Sahib sat tight for five bucks when her hat flew
off, and at the sixth buck she followed her topee, luckily escaping
without injury. Tambourine, black Pearl, The Apostle, and Ladybird
led over the first hurdle, and then on to another hurdle, with a drop,
in full view of the gallery. This obstacle proved very trying to many
of the riders, several of whom embraced their horses in the most loving
way, while Mr. Barrow reached mother earth, apparently somewhat
against his inclination. The paper was laid over a double, Tambourine,
Zil, Jinij and Ladybird leading them over a mud wall, and into the
open, where a hurdle caused Ladybird to run out, and ]\Irs. Mercantile
shortly after tried the hardness of the ground, without, however, we are
glad to say, sustaining any harm, as she was able to go the course
afterwards in her usual dashing style. We now cross the road and over
a mud wall, Zil, Red Knight, Jim and The Apostle composing the
foremost contingent. The pace now slackened down, owing to the
paper lying throu^'h a bit of jungle, and on emerging into the open, the
pace again quickened up, and we raced over a hurdle, a mud wall,
several ditches, and then another wall. Zil was now leading by about
fifty yards. The course now curved round to the left till we headed
on the Red Road when we found that we had a straight run in over two
hurdles. Mrs. Mercantile was now going very easily at the head of the
field, but Mr. dough's Irish blood was roused, and ramming his spurs
into Jim, he encouraged him with shouts of " Faugh-a-ballagh" and
" Erin-go-bragh," and the horse answering gamely, they rattled over the
two last hurdles at a grand pace, but could never quite reach Zil, who
won somewhat easily by a length, Red Knight third, Mr. Henry fourth.
The Apostle fifth, Tambourine sixth, Ladybird seventh.

The tenth Paperchase came off on Saturday, and was undoubtedly
the fastest run we have had this season. The pace was a cracker from
start to finish. All the leading horses, however, jumped beautifully,
and those faint hearts who lay behind in the hopes of scrambling through'
<:»^aps must have been bitterly disappointed to find the fences almost
untouched. There is no doubt that these chases are capital schooling
for horses and riders, and we saw proof of this at the Sky Races on
the 9th instant, when Zulu, judiciously ridden by his young owner, beat
such horses as Lunatic, Gameboy, etc., although they were handled by
professionals. We trust Mr. Baron's success will induce other light

225

weights to don the silk at the monsoon meetini^s this year as new
blood is badly wanted, and is always cordially welcomed.

In spite of the rain, which fell early on Saturday mornmg, the
weather turned out fine by 7 a.m., and the temperature was just right. The
field was very small, but the gallery turned out a good number, though
owing to the start and finish taking place close to a very narrow lane
most of the spectators took to their feet, while tho^ who stuck bravely to
their traps were jolted about in the most alarming manner. Many usual
followers of the chase were absent, including The Major, Mr. Mercan-
tile, Mr. Cartvvright, the Greek, etc, etc., but we were glad to see Child
Chappie out again, who apparently tired of Late Nigfus, was mounted
on his old favourite Ladylove. The start took place to the left of the
lane, leading from Rosedale, the paper being carried by Mr. Pedestrian
on Cinders and Mr. Anderson on Commissioner. Amongst the starters
we noticed the Mem Sahib on Black Pearl, Mr. Smith on Little Kintr
Mr. Helyar on a brown, Mr. Baron on Zulu, Captain Muir on Skipper
Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr, Irwin on Adjutant, Mr Beresford on Godfrey
Captain Webb on the Squire, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr. Lawrie on
Pilgrim, Mr. Peel on Blackwater, Dr. Morgan on Fairlie, Mr. Kilburn on
Red Knight, Mr. Lenox on the Fire Engme, Mr. Lawrence on Ladylove,
etc., etc

At the call of time we dashed away at a grand pace, the first hurdle
being taken by Handicap, Pilgrim, Blackwater, Red Knight, Zulu and
Godfrey, all close together. The paper now led into a very deep ditch
which stopped the pace for a few seconds ; we then dashed up the road,
and across the railway. Handicap, Zulu, and Red Knight, leading.
After crossing the railway a sharp turn to the right brought us in full
view of a mud wall, after which we curved round to the left and on to a
stiff hurdle, which brought Mr. Henry to earth, his horse appearing to
roll right over him. We, however, saw him on his legs afterwards, and
trust he escaped with a shaking only. The course was now quite straight
for about three-quarters of a mile, and the pace was furious, the leading
division consisting of Zulu, Fairlie, Blackwater and Pilgrim, all of whom
were fencing in good style. After going over some rough ground, we
turned to the left over a mud wall with a drop and a hurdle We then
got our heads towards the railway and galloped across the lane. Zulu
was now leading easily, but ran out at a hurdle. This enabled Pilgrim
(who missed one jump altogether) to get a long lead which Zulu could
never quite make up. Mr. Lawrie, therefore, passed the flag first, Zulu
second, Blackwater third, Fairlie fourth, Mr. Helyar fifth.

The gathering at the Paperchase yesterday was the largest we have
seen for some weeks in spite of the dance at the Fort on the previous
night, which kept many of the mashers out of bed till the small hours of
B, CPR 15

226

the morning. The weather was just right, while the shower of rain
which fell on Sunday last had considerably improved the going The
Government House party turned out strong, and Lord William gave the
public a treat by showing them Jack's jumping powers.

The Cup, we believe, will be run for in the second week in March.
We anticipate that there will only be about ten starters. From their
performances, Zil, Blackwater, Pilgrim, and Zulu appear to hold the rest
of the field safe " The Tougall," however, has rendered himself so
useful to his employers, that they object to his risking his precious life
over leps. Blackwater will, therefore, not start, but we ought to witness
a grand race between the other three, while Commissioner, Jim, and
Red Knight are sure to be in the front rank.

The course yesterday was good, though some of the turns were very
sharp, no doubt with the idea of stopping the pace, which it certainly
succeeded in doing to some extent. Falls were very plentiful. Sovereign
slipped up at a corner, and got rid of his rider, while Othello also slipped
going up a bank, his rider escaping with a dirty coat. Mr. Agra also
came to grief at an open ditch, which he charged with all the daring and
impetuosity that characterised his performances on the Kentish hunting
nag, which however stopped short, but his rider's blood was now roused,
and casting a look of contempt on his steed he boldly dived over the
chasm, and was afterwards seen proceeding nimbly on his boots through
a ploughed field.

The start took place across the railway, close to the Jodhpore
station. The paper was laid by Mr. Perman and Captain Muir.
Amongst the starters we noticed the Mem Sahib on Black Pearl, Mrs.
Chapman on Master McGrath, Mr. Baron on Zulu, Mr. Beresford on
Silver Fox, Captains Rochfort and Harbord on a pair of browns, Major
Cook on Harlequin, Mr. Dunne on a black, Mr. Chota Pedestrian on
Othello, The Bummer on Godfrey, Mr. Sandilands on Jimmy, Mr. Burn
on a brown, Mr. Peel on his little grey, Mr. Mercantile on Zil, Lord
William on Jack, Mr. Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Gough on- Jim, Mr,
Anderson on Commissioner, Mr. Cooper on Red Rover, Mr. Chapman
on Sovereign, Mr. Agra on Full Stop, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr.
Apcar on Tambourine, etc , etc.

At the call of time, Tambourine, Captain Harbord, and Zulu led
off at a sharp pace over a hurdle, which was placed parallel with the
railway, and then round to the right over a line of jumps well placed
in the open. We next turned to the left over a couple of ditches, and
up a lane. About twelve of the leaders here overshot the paper, which
turned off very sharp to the right. This enabled Commissioner and
Black Pearl to obtain the lead, and they rattled straight away for about
half a mile at a merry pace. The course now curved round in the

227

direction of home. Zulu, Commissioner, Red Rover, Mr. Rawlinson
and Zil were now leading The pace being fast, a slippery lane here
made most of the riders take a pull at their nags, but on again reaching
the open the leaders began to race ; a mud wall here brought Red
Rover to grief. After skirting a clump of jungle the red flags appeared
with a nice run in over two hurdles Zulu novv appeared to have the best
of it, but Air. Anderson was not to be done, and shaking up Commis-
sioner he forged to the front, and won pretty easily by a couple of
lengths from Zulu ; Mr. Rawlinson third, Mr. Feel fourth, Mr. Helyar
fifth, Mr. Uunne sixth.

The attendance at the Paperchase yesterday was very meagre, and
the number of followers few We suppose many sportsmen are reserv-
ing themselves for the Cup, which they advertised to be run for on 6th
March This has caused a good deal of grumbling as from previous
advertisemsnts it was generally understood that the Cup would be the
second chase in March ; some horses, therefore, will not be qualified to
start, unless the number of chases for qualification is reduced from six
to five. The weather yesterday was decidedly warm, and horses
and riders, as a rule, came in utterly exhausted. The course was very
open, though the going was soft, and the distance considerably longer
than we have generally been accustomed to. Falls and mishaps were
plentiful : Mr Watkins was swept off by the wing of the first hurdle, and
Mr. Karon got a nasty fall at a big bund. He, however, escaped with
what he described as ''an awful shaking." Mr. Edwards parted company
with his saddle owing to his horse stopping short at the last fence.
Mr. Learoyd and Lord William both came to grief when leading close
to home. This was owing to the paper being laid close to a shallow sort
of ditch into which Handicap tumbled and Jack rolled over him.
Nobody, however, was any the worse for the mishaps.

The start took place just beyond the Jodhpore Thannah on the
right hand side of the road, the paper being carried by Messrs. Perman
and Fox. Amongst the starters we noticed the Mem Sahib on Black
Pearl, Mr. Peel on his grey, Captain Rochfort and Mr Burn on a pair
of browns, the Greek on the Villam, Lord William on Jack. Mr. Mer-
cantile on Zil, Mr Beresford on Lord Donald, Mr. Anderson on Com-
missioner, Mr. Sandilands on Dolly Varden, The Bummer on Premier,
Dr. Morgan on Dauntless, Mr. Apcar on Tambourine, Mr. Learoyd on
Handicap, Mr. Dunne on a black, Mr Rivers on Magpie, Mr. Croft and
Mr. Gough on Jim, etc., eic.

At the call of time we dashed over the first hurdle, the leading
division consisting of Tambourine, Mr. Dunne, Lord Donald, Black
Pearl, and Jack. We next turned towards the long track of open going
generally known as the bund-country. The pace now was very fast.

228

and the jumps, consisting chiefly of mud walls and natural banks, very
numerous. A big bank with a path running along the top of it proved
a little too much for some of the horses, while many riders clung des-
perately to their horses' necks on reaching the landing side. After going
over two very st'ff old banks, wc went through a piece of jungle to the
right. Zil and Handicap now rushed to the front, the pace still being
good. On emerging from the jungle we rattled down a long bit of lane
and then sharp to the right over a nice bit of open country. In the
direction of the Thannah the going hereabouts being very soft, Zil and
Handicap were leading with Jack lying handy, while Commissioner was
now hurried up to the front The course now went over several mud
walls, a hurdle, and a bank and across the road where the finish took
place over a hurdle, a mud wall with a drop, and another hurdle.
Handicap led over the road, after whi( h Jack rushed up to him, and
they took the hurdle togeth-^.r. They, however, had to turn very sharp
to the left to reach the mud wall, and as above mentioned they both came
down at the trappy place near which the paper was laid. Zil had now
no difficulty in securing first honours, while the Mem Sahib, who came
with a rattle over the last hurdle, was just beaten for third place by
Commissioner, Mr. Dunne fourth. Tambourine fifth.

188485.

With the month of December come the Paperchases, and old friends,
whose faces we are glad to see again.

"Jam satis terris nivis atque diroe

" Grandinis misit pater. — "
Which being interpreted into the vernacular meaneth, the rains are
over, and we shall now proceed to enjoy ourselves.

" Sunt quos curriculo pulverem Olympicum

" Collegisse juvat, metaque fervido."
We shall again see coaches toiling up the Gurriah Hat Road, a
proof of the efficacy of Turnbull tuition during the dull season.

The heavy fall of rain we had in September must have made the
selection of a decent course a difficult task, the country as yet being
more fit for snipe-shooting than for riding. Crops are not cut, the
jungle is blind, and for some time courses will have to be laid more or less
amongst the lanes and roads. For the next fortnight at least our flyers
will be out of it, and happy is the man who possesses a crack as cunning
as a lawyer and handy as a knife and fork ; his will be the chance of a
show at the finishes. The first new chases, however, are seldom a
criterion of how horses will run for places towards the end of the season.
Our " first rank " are usually either on young ones, or their nags are not
yet in a condition to be bustled, and a man on a handy horse has a good
chance of a " place " to his credit for the next few weeks.

229

The first meet of the season took place yesterday at Juggernauth Car
on the Gurriah Hat Road, and there was a goodly muster of the sporting
fraternity of Calcutta. Most of the old and well-known faces were there
amongst the crowd of performers or onlookers, but we noticed here and
there a mournful gap. We missed poor Dr. Morgan on Fairlie and Dr.
Woolcott. Peace be to their ashes. It will be difficult to fill their places
in Calcutta as sportsmen, and in many other ways. The field of
starters was rather smaller than usual, some twenty or thirty all
told, but the talent amongst them more than made up for the
quantity.

We noticed Mrs. Cook on Hector, The Major on a new one, Mr.
Agra on his bay, the Apostle on the Villain, Mr. Lawrence on Master
McGrath, Mr. Flummery on Lord Donald, Mr. Cartwright on George
Dashwood, Mr. Myers on a little one, Mr. Bintang on Zil, Mr. Nastrelep
on Gloom, Mr. Mylne on a grey, several Hallygunge chummeries on
horses of sorts, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr. Hamilton on Milkmaid,
Mr. Hadow on Thoms, and Mr. Collin on Fort. We apologise to any
gentleman we may not have mentioned, but we have not much space at
our disposal. The start was down the lane to the right, over a hurdle,
the going being very slippery, Mr. Lawrence, the Apostle, Mrs. Cook,
Mr. Cartwright, and Mr. Bintang got away first, and kept well together
for the major portion of the distance. Then we trended away to the
left, over the open by the sheep-pens with a hurdle or two and a wall and
a ditch, across the Red Road, with a Wind-looking ditch into a garden.
Mr. Lawrence here had a good lead with the Greek lying well up. Some
thick jungle then entailed rather careful riding, until we got to the brick
fields. A succession of walls and hurdles, with a scramble through the
guava tope, led us out into the Tollygunge lane. Here the leading
division sat down and began to ride, the Apostle having the legs of the
lot round the corner. The finish was a real gallery one, being placed in
a circle in the open to the right of the Red Road at the Gurriah Hat
Thannah. After crossing the road three of the leading division shot off
to the right of the paper, and lost their places. A warning shout, how-
ever, put the rest on the. right track, and a good race home ensued.
Mr. Lawrence landed first, Mr. Agra second, the Unknown third, Mrs.
Cook fourth, Mr. Cartwright fifth, the Greek sixth, then the Masher, and
a crowd of others. On the road home we noticed Mr. Flummery still
looking for the course, and others, we fancy, will be dropping in all
day.

The paper was laid by;Mr. Latham and Mr.AValker. Mr. Simpson
accompanying them to see that the ryots behaved properly. The course
was a very good one. The pace moderate. There were no accidents,
and we must congratulate the Honorary Secretary on having given the
gallery such a good view of the finish.

230

The second Paperchase came off yesterday morning. The pubHc
turned out in great numbers, both as spectators and followers of the
chase. The weather was all that could be desired, but the going was
fearfully deep, and we think the distance was a little long, considering
that the season has only just commenced. We heard many complaints
of the sparing manner in which the paper was laid. We think it a
great mistake to be niggardly in this respect, as the field spread all over
the crops in the endeavours to recover the scent, and this naturally
prejudices the natives against the sport. The riding, as it generally is
in the first few chases, was decidedly loose. Courtesy is a thing we
always advocate, but we think it is carrying the matter a little too far
to see riders, after negotiating a fence, bowing politely to their horses'
necks. This attention must be very embarrassing to the horses, while
it is far from a pretty sight for the gallery. The start took place at the
Juggernauth Car, the paper being carried by Messrs. Latham and
Walker on Weaver and Cinders.

We noticed at the start the Mem Sahib on a new one, the Chauringi
Mem Sahib on Nancy, Mr. Lawrence on Master McGrath, Mr. Burn
on a pony, Mr. Learoyd on Engineer, Captain Webb on Remorse,
Mr. Beresford on Boatman, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Graham on
Sappho, Lord William on Pigsticker, Mr. Drysdale on Warrigal, Captain
Haines on Ariel, Mr. Tom on Commissioner, Mr. Hamilton on a
chestnut, Mr. Apcar on Tambourine, Mr. Myers on King Arthur,
Mr. Petrie on a brown, Mr. Delphin on Credit, Mr. Agra on Sherry
Cobbler, Mr. Dunne on Gretchen, Mr. Maitland on a black, Mr. Murray
on Zil, Mr. Tunnicliffe on a chestnut, Mr. Gordon on a ditto, and a host
of other good men and horses, whose names unfortunately are unknown
to us.

At the call of time we darted down the road and sharp to the left
over a hurdle and a mud wall in full view of the gallery. After the mud
wall we crossed the road, and then inclined to the left over a stiff hurdle.
The leaders were Gretchen, Ariel, Messrs. Hamilton and Petrie. The
pace was very fast. After going a short distance over some very heavy
ground, we jumped on and off the red lane over a hurdle and a couple
of mud walls, and then over a brushwood fence and another wall.
Messrs. Alston and the Greek now joined the leading division. The
course now lay through some jungle which proved disastrous to the
Greek. On emerging into the open we found two more obstacles, a drop
jump and a nasty looking hurdle. Gretchen, Ariel and Pilgrim were
now at the head of affairs, but the pace had slackened down consid-
erably. The paper now laid over a narrow wall and into a patch of
jungle where we found two fearful grave-like ditches, the second one of
which was cleared by Mr. Maitland in gallant style well ahead of his
horse. We now got our heads in the direction of home, and several of

\

231

the field made ineffectual attempts to get near the leaders, who were
now racing. As they came in ^•iew of the gallery Gretchen was leading.
Mr. Alston, however, now gave Pilgrim her head, and the mare striding
over the last two jumps came in first pretty easily, Mr. Hamilton second,
Gretchen third, Ariel fourth ; then after a long gap came Messrs. Agra
and Lawrence, the Mem Sahib, Lord William, etc., etc.

Jodhpore Thannah, the advertised meet for Thursday, was one of
the most distant meets we have had during the season, — a palpable
disadvantage to many of the riders and spectators some of whom
looked very much as if they had been assisting at the dance given
the night before the chase, by one of our best-known sportsmen.
The course was a long one, too long, we think, for the season, and
the present holding nature of the ground. A long course will not
stop the pace at the commencement of a run, unless its length is adver-
tised beforehand. People crowd along gaily at the beginning, and find
they are only half way through when they expect to see the red flags ;
then comes the episode of a tired horse and a binding hurdle, or an
obstinate mud wall, with the inevitable consequence, a fall. Messrs.
Latham, Hamilton and Walker laid the paper, and the attendance, both
of spectators and riders, was very good indeed. Most of the Calcutta
riding brigade were there — Mrs. Chapman, Mrs. Cook, Mrs. Sanders,
and Mrs. Turner, Captain Muir on Skipper, Lord William on a grey,
Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Beresford on a brown, Mr. Cartwright on
George Dashwood, Mr. Dickson on Napraxia, Mr. Lawrence on Master
McGrath, Mr. Learoyd, Major Cook, Mr. Croft, Mr. Peterson on Gloom,
Mr. Mayne on Sherry Cobbler, Mr. Donald on Warigal, Mr. Nosredna on
Commissioner, Mr. Simpson, Mr. Myers, and a good many others. At
the word " go " a general stampede took us off the road, across a pea-
field, over a couple of hurdles, on and of^ a bank, past the railway, to the
biggest wall during the run. This obstacle stopped two warriors, their
downfall frightening Napraxia through the wing, and giving a couple of
others a pretext for a refusal. A sweep to the right over an occasional
jump or two took us into several patches of jungle ; a ditch here proved
fatal to the Alipur Mem Sahib, and a little further on Mr. Agra
might have been seen endeavouring to qualify his Sherry Cobbler with a
little tank water. Mr. Dunne, Mrs. Cook, Mr. Alston, and a half dozen
others composed the leading brigade, the pace being slow throughout
and the field well together.

Some marshy ground, a hurdle in a lane, a succession of mud walls,
and the well known guava tope, brought us round in full view of the
gallery and the finish. We regret to say that Mr. Hamilton at the last
wall put his shoulder out. We hope, however, that he will soon be out
again to push along as pluckily as is his wont. This left Mrs. Cook and

232

Mr. Alston the opportunity of trying conclusions for first place.
Mr. Alston's mare, however, landed a most enjoyable chase pretty easily.
How is it that we have not had a " double " yet in any of the chases ?

Owing to the holidays the hour fixed for the fourth chase was
8 o'clock, and most people will regret that the daily labours of a large
proportion of our sporting community prevent this from being the usual
hour. We fancy that many sportsmen gladly hailed the respite of one
hour after the convivialities of the previous night. Be that as it may, out
they turned in force. Amongst those present were many of the visitors
whom the attractions of the season call to Calcutta some old friends,
some new, but all equally welcome. On the other hand, several of our
well-known riders were conspicuous by their absence, having gone
elsewhere for the Christmas holidays. The course was certainly the
best we have had this season, and afforded the spectators ample opportu-
nity of witnessing their friends' horsemanship. Amongst the field Ave
noticed the Mem Sahib on a chestnut, Mrs. Chapman on Sovereign,
Mrs. Turner on Ariel, Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mrs. Sanders on Red Rover,
Mr. John on Comet, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap,
George Dashwood on George Dashwood, Mr. Euripedes on Sappho,
Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Mr. Bintang
on Zil, Mr. Beresford on King Arthur, Mr. Donny on Query, Mr. Agra
on Little Duke, Lord William on a chestnut. Captain Harbord on a
grey, Mr. Little on another of the same colour, Mr. Pedestrian on
Cinders, and Captain Hawks on his bay. Juggernauth Car was the start-
ing point, and Captain Muir and Mr. Latham took charge of the paper
on Skipper and the Weaver.

At the call of time they started down the road and field off across
the open to the right, then to the left and over a wall which brought
them to the Sheep-pens, where they negotiated a hurdle and went on
and off" a garden. The Mem Saheb, Pilgrim and Handicap were lead-
ing when they crossed the Red Road, followed by Comet, Red Rover,
Little Duke and the rest. The hurdle in the open upset the Mem
Saheb's chestnut, and we were very glad to hear afterwards that what
looked like a nasty fall had resulted in nothing more serious than a
severe shaking. The paper lay to the right again over some heavy going
with a mud wall in the middle through the jungle and across the open.
Another mud wall to the left barred the homeward track, which then lay
over two hurdles on the high ground, across the kutcha road and
through a mango tope, when the field were again in sight of the Red
Road. Here Pilgrim was still at the head of affairs with Handicap
coming along, and the rest a little way off, and this order was maintained
to the finish which was over two walls in the narrow field leading to the
Red Road. Mr. Alston and Pilgrim scored their third win this season,

233

Handicap was second, then lons^n mtervallo. Red Rover, Comet, and
Little Duke. The going is improving every week, but we see that the
crops are still standing in the bund-country and over some of the other
well-known courses.

The meet for yesterday's chase took place at Cavanagh's stables,
Gurriah Hat Road, and brought together a very large field both of
spectators and riders. The Secretary, we notice, unburdened himself
of one of his grievances in the advertisement of the meet, and we assist
him with a word in season to those sportsmen who appear to think that
the walls and fences put up during the week are intended more especially
for their delectation before the chase comes off. The '' gallery " would
also oblige if they would kindly keep off the crops as much as possible,
as compensation has of course to be paid to the ryot.

The paper was carried by Mr. Latham and Mr. Walker, and amongst
the field we noticed Mrs. Cook on True Briton, Mrs. Chapman,
Mrs. Turner on Ariel, Mr. Beresford on Lord Donald, Mr. McCartie on
a grey, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Lawrence on Ladylove, Lord William
on a chestnut, Captain Hawks on his bay, Mr. Cartwright on George
Dashwood, Mr. Myers on Satanella, Mr. Petersen on a grey, Mr. Currie
on Magpie, Mr. Apostolides on Sappho, Mr. Boileau on Master
McGrath, Mr. Agra on Sherry Cobbler, Mr. Murray on Zil, and
Mr. Kilburn. The start was from the road opposite the stables, across
a field to the left, over a couple of hurdles, two walls and a drop jump,
back to the Red Road, and through some rather close country to the
old brickfields. Up to this point the field, with the exception of a grey
haired planter had managed to keep their seats. A mud wall, however,
shortly afterwards disposed of Mr. Myers, while Mr. Chatham came to
grass over a bamboo fence a little further on. The going at this point
was rather slow, for the paper led through thick jungle and huts plenti-
fully strewed the course. A turn to the right brought the riders out into
more easy country with a succession of mud walls and a short stretch
of open fields. A portion of the field here went astray in chase of the
Apostle and lost their places, and Mr. Alston, Mr. Murray and Lord
William formed the leading division as the red flags came in view. At
the corner Mr. Alston overran the paper, letting Lord William up for
the first place, with Mr. Murray second, while he came third. Then
came some six or seven of our usual riders for a place, then a hiatus, and
the rest of the field at intervals.

No gaieties or parades intervening, this week's meet took place on
the usual day, Thursday, the start being from Jodhpore Thannah. The
task of finding suitable ground for the courses this year has been rather
a hard one. The sudden and heavy rain we had towards the end of the
monsoon ran off instead of penetrating the flat ground, and the conse-

234

quence is that fields are already becoming as hard as iron, while many
depressions are still almost deep enough for snipe shooting.

The ryots, moreover, seem to be putting in a larger crop of peas
than usual, and this means that a good deal of plough has to be negotia-
ted, all chances in the favour of light weights and thorough breds. It is
early yet to form any opinion as to respective chances for the Cup, some
six weeks hence. Up to date Pilgrim shows the best record, but there
have been a good many going every week who have not tried, but have
contented themselves with easy work for qualification.

The field on Thursday was hardly as large as usual. The gallery,
however, turned out bravely in coaches, barouches, dog-carts, and every
kind of conveyances down to ticcas, ulsters, rugs, and red noses testifying
to the rawness of a Bengal January morning. Amongst the starters
were Mrs. Cook on Handicap, Mrs. Chapman on a chestnut, Captain
Burn, Lord William, Mr. Learoyd, Mr. Lawrence on Master McGrath,
Mr. Dickson on a brown, Mr. Cartwright on Colchester, Mr. Beresford on
Lord Donald, Mr. Myers on Satanella, the Butler on a galloway, the
Greek on Sappho, Mr. Mayne on Drink, Mr. Rawlinson on a bay, Mr.
Barnes, Mr. Noira on a chestnut, Mr. Petersen on Cavanagh, Mr. Kilburn
on a pony, Mr. Murray on Zil, and Mr. Anderson on Commissioner. At
the word " go " we streamed off to the left of the road over a hurdle and
wall in full view of the gallery ; to the right over some plough with a big
grip and a drop jump on the right hand side of the railway, then across
the lane and sharp round to the right, a wall and a hurdle intervening
between us and the road. The course here led straight into the jungle
and wound in and out of mango topes and bustis in a manner that tried
the handiness of a good many of the horses. A ditch and a pond
here disposed of Messrs. Myers and Barnes. A gallop down a long
green lane formed an agreeable change to the heavy ground we had been
floundering across, but a couple of hurdles prevented the pace from
becoming" too furious.

The paper then turned sharp to the right, through some jungle, over
three or four walls and into the open with the red flags in view. The
leading division here overshot the paper, and one wrong-headed animal
refused the last wall. Mr. Butler seizing his opportunity landed his
game little galloway first, Mr. Mayne second, Mr. Lawrence third, with
rather an awkward-looking fall at the last hurdle, Mr. Murray, Mr.
Beresford, Lord William, Mr. Cartwright and Mr. Dickson all following
close up.

There can be little doubt as to the daily increasing popularity of our
paperchases. Time was, and that not so very long ago, when the field of
starters might have been covered with a blanket, and when the spectators
comprised half a dozen individuals. Now-a-days there is as large a crowd

235

on the road as on a Ballygunge race day, with a field of from thirty or
forty riders graduating from our well-known sportsmen on steeplechasers
down to willing, but unsteady youngsters on ponies and buggy nags.

On Thursday the Duke of Connaught, the Viceroy, and Government
House party were present, and the meet was the largest that we have as
yet had. Every trap and horse in Calcutta seemed to have been pulled
out for the occasion, and the cross road where the gallery assembled
was quite impassable from the Gurriah Hat Road to the corner. This
position must have been as good as the dress circle at the Circus to the
spectators, for there were no less than six jumps in full view, including
the double, which at one time very much resembled a sheep-pen. A
considerable number of the cracks in the first place refused to jump
in, and when they did get in, these absolutely refused to get out again.
One sportsman incontinently fell off on the flat, and a good deal of the
riding was amusing, if not instructive, to witness. The pace was very
hot indeed from start to finish, as it naturally would be with such horses
going as Jack, Copper, and Handicap, everybody buzzing to the best
of their ability. The paper was laid by Mr. Pedestrian and Mr. Latham,
and amongst the field we noticed Mrs. Cook on Copper, Captain Baron on
a bay. Captain Gordon, Lord William on Jack, Captain Harbord, Mr.
Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Dickson on Ladylove, Mr. Cartwright on Master
McGrath, Mr. Beresford on Charles I, Mr. Myers on a grey, Mr. Agra on
Drink, Mr. Petersen on Cavanagh, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr. Donald
on Warrigal, Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr. Rawlinson on a bay, the
Greek on Sappho, Mr. Butler on his galloway, and one or two others.
The start took place on the field to the left of the road, which we crossed
at once, then over a hurdle, in a peafield ; a mud wall, a bank, two drop
jumps, and a double, all well in view of the dress circle. The last
jumps must have afforded considerable amusement to every one, for at
one time it was as full as it could hold, with an anxious crowd waitmg to
jump in. The redoubtable Jack, too, refused here, but was soon set
going again. We then threaded to the left, between two small jheels, and
over some mud walls along the edge of the jungle, up a lane with a
hurdle in it, and on to a stififish mud wall, where Mr. Dunne came a real
" buster." A succession of ditches, a little further on, brought Captam
Harbord and Mr. Rawlinson to grief, and an unknown sportsman rode
straight into a mud hole, when he was left. The course then led us
round a mango tope and across some open fields, the " leps " consistmg
principally of alternate walls and hurdles. A turn to the right led us
out in view of the red flags and the finish. Here Lord William, Mr.
Alston, and Mr. Butler missed a couple of hurdles and disqualified them-
selves ; the former, however, persevered, and the other two went back.

Lord William was the first to go past the post, but as he had not
gone the course, the chase must be credited to Mrs. Cook, Mr. Learoyd

236

second, Captain Burn third, Mr. Cartwright fourth. Stranger fifth ; then
followed Mr. Alston, Mr. Beresford, Mr. Mayne, Mr. Dickson, and the
rest of the field at intervals.

Calcutta when it chooses can be the gayest city in India, and it has
during the past fortnight put its best foot forward in this respect ; races,
polo matches, dances and dinners following each other day after day most
persistently. The past week has been a particularly gay one, and we
noticed that the late hours we have lately gone through had left their
impression on many of the field.

Thursday's course was a fair one, but not so good as many we have
had the pleasure of riding over. The first portion took us over the same
ground we travelled last week, the diversion taking place in front of the
old bank and double. Thence we passed the mango tope, round the
tank past the guava gardens, walls and hurdles alternating. A big wall
on the home side of the Tollygunge Lane made Remorse and a couple
of others run out, but they were soon restarted on their journey. Further
the paper led us on pastthe brick fields, and we rattled along back into
the last week's course, taking it in the reverse direction. At the take
off from the lane into the rice fields, about a mile from home, the
paper was laid over rather a trappy place, and here Captain Burn,
Mr. Cartwright and Mr. Myers simultaneously came to grief, Mr. Myers'
horse rolling over him, fortunately without evil results.

A hurdle a little further on brought Mr. Beresford down.

A succession of mud walls on the left of the Dhobie Talao brought us
to the last two hurdles, and the run in, Mr. Butler landing his game httle bay
first, the Unknown second, Mr. Bintang third, and Captain Webb fourth.

The paper was laid by Messrs. Latham and Walker, and amongst
the starters we noticed Mrs. Sanders, Mrs. Chapman, Mr. Chapman
on a bay, Lord William on Jack, Captain Harbord, Captain Burn,
Mr Anderson, Mr. Perman on "a colt," Mr. Beresford on Lord Donald,
Mr. Cartright on Colchester, Mrs. Murray on a bay, Mr. Murray on Zil,
Mr. Petrie on Sawyer, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Mr. Petersen on Nofseman^
the Mem Saheb on a grey, Mr. Butler, Mr. Petrocochino on Telescope,
Mr. Dickson on Ladylove, and Mr. Kilburn on a pony.

A few days ago it appeared probable that this week's paperchase
would have to be postponed. The southerly winds we have lately had
brought up dense masses of fog from the sea, and our mornings since
Monday have been dank, dark, and miserable, the jungle and trees
dripping with moisture, and lamps all but invisible beyond ten paces.
Yesterday, however, the wind blew again from the north and the
morning was as bright and cool as one could well wish. Two dances
running had thinned both the fields, and the gallery, and many

237

well-known faces were absent, evidently preferrincr a " Europe morning '^
to the questionable delights of a seat in a slippery saddle over twenty or
thirty jumps. Dire grief, too, was the order of the day, and we have
seldom seen more spills during the course of one paperchase. Messrs.
Petersen, Drysdale, Butler, Thompson, Campbell and Captain Harbord
all managed to upset themselves at various stages of the journey, and
great was the horse-hunting in the jungles, for some hours after e\ery
one had gone home.

The course was laid in an entirely new direction, starting at the
railway crossing at Old Ballygunge to the right in a line parallel to the
rail, which was again crossed at Jodhpore, with the finish on the high
ground to the left of the road. The field was a small one, and amongst
the riders we noticed Mrs. Murray, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Captain Harbord
on a grey, Captain Burn on his chestnut, Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr. Beresford
on Lord Donald, Mr. Dunne on Peggy, Mr. Petersen on Ca\anagh,
Mr. Ashton on Pilgrim, Mr. Johnstone on Master McGrath, Mr. Nairn
on a chestnut, Mr. Perman on the aged colt, Mr. Drysdale on Warrigal,
Mr. Dickson on Ladylove, Mr. Simpson and Mr. Anderson.

After crossing the rails, a wall led us on to a close bit of going w ith
a series of ditches which proved rather disastrous to some of the riders,
A sweep to the left and a gallop down a lane then brought us out into
the open, hurdles and walls alternating across the fields. The field were
tailed off considerably, some of them finding the pace too good, and
others being obliged from the force of circumstances to continue the
chase on foot.

About half a mile from the Jodhpore crossing, the 8 a.m. train was
seen coming up the line, and it looked long-odds on the train being up
in time to stop the whole business. The leading division, however,,
managed to get across, leaving the tail of the back disconsolately shut
out. Mr. Murray was first past the post, Mr. Currie second, Mr. Nairn
third, Mr. Mayne fourth, and the field at intervals.

Thursday's course was very similar to one laid at the commencement
of the season. The start was from the Juggernauth Car, a short spin down
the road and a turn to the left into the fields taking us up to the first two
jumps, a hurdle and a wall. Across the road again, through a peafield,,
and we came to a couple of hurdles and a series of walls amongst the
close country to the left of the cross Red Road. Mr. Mylne's proceedings
came to an abrupt termination at this stage of the journey.

A lane, some thick jungle, a series of ditches, and a scamper through
the guava garden, brought us out on the Tollygunge Lane. At the end
of this, and just past the Thannah, a double was placed in full view of
the gallery, a goodly crowd of spectators ha\ing taken up a position
on the top of a bank to see the fun, and a good deal of fun we

238

fancy they witnessed, in the way of refusals, loose seats, and general
gymnastics.

A hurdle on the high ground brought Mr. Murray to grief, extin-
guishing his chance, and two artists ran out at the water jump a little
further on. The finish was laid in a circle between the railway and the
road, giving every one a good view of at least the last half mile of the

chase.

Mr. Myers landed Zulu first, Mr. Tom on Commissioner second.
Nigger with a stranger up third, and Captain Burn fourth.

The field was composed of Mrs. Murray on Bintang, Mr. Esculapius
on a grey, Mr. Beresford on Copper, Captain Burn on a brown, Mr. Cart-
wright on Nellie, Mr. Johnstone on Master McGrath, Mr. Tom Anderson
on Commissioner, Mr. Learoyd on Handicap, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Mr.
Dickson on Ladylove, Mr. Mylne on a grey, the stranger on Nigger,
Mr. Anderson on a grey, the Greek, Mr. Nairn, and one or two others,
the paper being laid by Messrs. Latham and Pedestrian.

Interest in the Calcutta paperchases appears to be waning in sym-
pathy with the Calcutta " season." The attendance has been weekly
growing smaller, and on Friday, in spite of a fortnight's rest, enforced by
the heavy state of the ground, both field and gallery were smaller
than any we have yet seen. But few of the regular performers
were present, and those that did start seemed to be riding with a
good deal in hand. The chase was marred by an unfortunate accident
to a horse of Mr. Heriot's. He succeeded in depositing his rider some-
where about the second fence, and getting away followed the field in the
direction of the brickfields. Here the poor brute stepped on his reins
and brought himself on to his head, breaking his neck. The Paperchase
Cup is to be run for, we believe, on or about the 7th March— a Saturday —
and we would suggest to the executive that the race might be run in
the afternoon.

The change would be generally acceptable to the public and would
ensure a much larger gallery.

Thursday's course was very similar to the Duke of Connaught's
one, the start being from the east side of the Gurriah Hat Road, the first
fences lying parallel to the Red Road. Leaving the old double to the
left, the paper took us askirt the jungle, and over several "leps " of sorts
down the lane to the brickfields.

Here our old friend the big wall faced us, and we galloped gaily to
the left through the jungle and out into the open, about half a mile
from home. A run through a garden, and a succession of walls, led
up to the last two hurdles. The leading division consisted of Mr.
Apcar, Colonel Pole Carew, Mr. Anderson, Captain Burn and Mr.
Butler.

2 39

Finally Colonel Carew on a horse of Lord William's, just shot Mr.
Apcar for first place, Mr. Anderson third. Captain Burn fourth, Mr.
Butler fifth, and Mr. Murray sixth.

Amongst the starters, we noticed Mrs. Sanders, Mrs. Murray,
Captain Burn, Mr. Myers, Colonel Carew, Mr. Barnes, Mr. Rivers Currie,
Mr. Perman, Mr. Anderson, Mr. Apcar, Mr. Kino, Mr. Nairn and a few
others.

The last open chase of the season was run on Thursday last, with
a very small field and before a limited gallery. Casualties were
numerous, and the percentage of spills to the total number of performers
must have proved both edifying and amusing to the crowd of natives
who thronged most of the jumps along the course, and greeted each
gymnast with cheers of approbation.

Both Messrs. Beresford and Dickson accomplished uncomfortable
looking spills, and there were some four or five loose horses careering
through the jungle before the journey was half over. The Cup will be
run oft on Thursday next, and as the Viceroy proposes being present,
we fancy most of Calcutta will turn out to see the fun.

It is difficult to spot winners with Handicap, Copper, Pilgrim, and
Lord William's horse out of the hunt. Zil, Commissioner, and The
Rabbit show the best record up to date The last of these is much too
small to live with the big ones when it comes to real galloping, and of
the other two we should feel inclined to " plank the counters " on Zil.
Zulu has not as yet been really set going in any of the chases, having
been in training for Ballygunge W^e think he should about win.
Master McGrath and Sappho have an off-chance, their owners being
both straight-goers.

Thursday's start was from Gurriah crossing, the paper being laid
parallel to the railway for some two and a half miles down to Old
Ballygunge It was by no means a gallery course, and not more than
three of the spectators managed to reach the winning post in time to
see the finish. Blind ditches were numerous, causing a considerable
amount of grief, and there was a good'deal of Indian file business down
lanes, at different portions of the chase.

The paper was laid by Messrs. Latham and Walker, and amongst
the starters we noticed Mrs. Sanders on a grey, Mr. Beresford on
Cavanagh, Mr. Dickson on a brown, Captain Balfour on a pony, Lord
William on Skipper, Mr. Lawrence on Master McGrath, Mr. Cartwright
on Nellie, Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr. Myers on Zulu, Mr. Anderson on
Commissioner, Mr. Ferman on a black, and one or two others. Mr.
Apostolides secured the first place, with Mrs. Sanders second and
Mr. Anderson third.

240

The following will be the 'starters for the Cup on to-morrow
morning : —

Mr. S. A. Apcar's ...
Mr. R. Murray's
Mr. 1". S. Anderson's
Mr, D. B. Myers' ...
Mr. K. G. Currie's ...
Mr. A. L, Butler's ...
Mr. E. C. Apostolides*
Mr. G. Nairn's
Captain Burn's
Mr. VV. L. Alston's...
Mr. Evelyn's
Mr. A. Dunne's
Mr. C. D. Petersen's
Mr. C. L. Johnstone's

... Tambourine.

... Zil.

... Commissioner.

... Zulu,

... Magpie.

... Rabbit.

... Sappho.

... Redgauntlet.

. Tanderook.

... Pilgrim.

..- Black Ace

... Peggy.

... Scandinavia.

... Master McGrath.

In all 14, of which 7 are old competitors. On public form
Tambourine and Zulu should be first favourites, but when following the
paper, the race is not always to the swift, and we would recommend the
Tollygunge winners not to be too confident.

Ballygunge is well represented by Commissioner and Zil, the former
having been placed in three out of the last four Cup Chases, and we are
sure no win would be more popular than that of Mr Anderson, the
veteran paperchaser.

Pilgrim favoured by a light weight should be well to the
front, but Mr. Alston is a doubtful starter, owing to possible absence
from Calcutta. The foreign division is ably represented by Sappho,
who ran well last week. Of the rest Rabbit has the best record,
but to-morrow the race will be too hot. Government House sends
only one representative. Captain Burn, who will be well to the
front, but we hardly think first past the post, and on the whole,
barring accidents, we are inclined to pin our faith upon Commissioner
with Zulu second, but we would warn the Ballygunge representative to
keep a good lookout for the finish and not this year to lose sight of his
men in the dust.

1

Owing to the rain last month the chase on the 12th had to be
abandoned, and we have only twelve this season, and a starter for the
Cup must have gone in at least six chases ; the regular frequenters
should have a very good idea of the form of the competitors. The
Soudan war has cost us two starters. Copper and Handicap, both
likely winners, and from some cause neither Lord Donald nor Othello
are entered, but notwithstanding the field will be fully up to the

241

average, and we expect a very good race, and one well worth coming
o see.

The start is to be at 7-50 punctually, and we would warn all riders
to be up to time.

1885-86.

The scent laid admirably all the way by two well-known sportsmen
used to the game to their fingers' ends, from the Jodhpore Depot crossed
the Gurriah Hat Road near the Moulvi Spinney, then over two mud
walls into a cross-grained plough, was carried over broken ground
abounding in natural " bunds " and grips across the paddy land on to
the Tollygunge Musjid Lane, and on into the country lying just south of
the Red Road, where the Hunt came in view of the small but select
company of admiring spectators, who, as usual, m.anaged to get in the
way ; but the field was sulificientiy strung out for every horseman to take
his own line At the fall of the flag Commissioner pranced leisurely on
in front of the gallant band ; but from want of practice or distemper, or
some unexplained cause, refused at the second hurdle and completely
upset his entire following, who in the excitement of the moment gave
him the best ^a//z at their command till they got by. So much did his
master take the refusal to heart that Commissioner was immediately on
his return to the Park, added to the list. The next episode of any
interest was the dethronement of Collars. He clutched at mane, ears,
and headstall, all in their proper order, but without avail, a thump he
came down where the back joins the legs, discomfitted, but undismayed.
Zulu, carrying a visitor from the Clyde Country, did not stop anywhere,
and finished well up. Warrigal was fast losing his friends when some
of his gear parted, an ancient stirrup leather probably, and thus occurred
another casualty. The owner of this good nag has developed into quite
a horseman and there is a vast gap between a horseman and a rider.
As for the order at the finish, the best man out (and who will deny
that he is ?), came in first ; as for the others, A. A. Apcar, Howes, J. J.
Rose, E. T. Roberts, was about the order, but I was not close enough
up myself to see.

Notwithstanding that it was the morning after Christmas, a large
number of people found their way to Jodhpore Railway station to witness
the start for the second of the popular meets. A good many of the old
faces were not amongst the starters, but the holidays, no doubt, accoun-
ted for the ir absence, and we hope to see them out next week, for it
must be remembered that there is ap for Cup the horse that comes in
first and oftenest. We are glad to see The Bummer back again, and
B, CPR 16

242

hope that he will soon be amongst the starters. Bummer's voyage back
did not a^^ree with him, for we hear he has lost vveij^ht. Amonyst the
starters we noticed Mr Sanders on Footlights, Tlie Masher on his o\yn
Bunny, Captain Harbord on a grey, Mr. Rawlinson on Forester,
Calcutta's Own, under an exquisite cap, on Copper, Mr Richardson on
a ^rey. Ally Sloper on Saunterer, Mr. Grej^ory on the Padre's mare,
Ballygunge Jim on his new bay, Chota Dunne on a grey, Captain
Muir on a brown, Mr. Nolan on Sunbeam, and a few others.

Punctually at 7-30 Mr. Latham on Weaver and " The Touyall " on
Trump Card started with the paper, both horses fencing beautifully, and
fifteen minutes later the word "go"' was given to the eaj^er field of
starters. The course lay down by the railway where the first obstacle, in
the shape of a mud wall, was negotiated by the leaders without a mistake,
The Rabbit, Copper, Mr. Richardson, and Footlights, showing the way.
A turn to the right brought us on to a hurdle and mud wall which
stopped no one, although a little later on Captain Harbord came to
mother earth gracefully and took no further part in the chase. The
going was a little heavy after this, until we came into a pucca lane,
which was the signal for the leaders to increase the pace, and a merry
rattle soon brought us into the open again where a hurdle and a mud
wall had to be got over. Mrs. S mders and Footlights parted company
at the latter owing to a riderless horse knot king the grey out of his
stride, and she was obliged to finish the chase on foot. Crossing a
field with a hurdle across the centre brought us into the last turn
for home, but not before Mr. Butler had tried the experiment of
tumbling off and running alongside his handsome galloway for a little.
The result was not successful ; he got on again, but failed to make up
what he had lost, anH Mr. Richardson, taking advantage of these little
ecceniricities, raced over the last fence an easy winner. Copper and
Captain Harbord's riderless horse making a close finish f(»r second
place, Rabbit third. Forester fourth, Ballygunge Jim fifih, Mr. Gregory
sixth, and Ally Sloper a good seventh.

Owing to the crops not being cut, a gallery course coutd not be
arranged, but this difficulty will soon vanish, and we promise the
spectators something good on an early date.

It was no doubt the promise of a "gallery course" that attracted
so large a number of onlookers to .Ballygunge on Saturday morning
to see the third chase of the season. Ihe field, however, was small,
and we should have liked to see more of the old faces. The starters
were Mrs. Harvey on a magnificent bay, Lord William on an English
horse, Lord Clandeboye on a bay. Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Calcutta's
Own on Copper, The Masher on ked Rover, Ballygunge Jim on

243

Beeswing, Mr. Muir on Zulu, Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr.
Newall on Trump Card, Mr. Sholto on K;ite Coventry, Mr. Hen on
Silver Fox, Ally Sloper on Saunterer, Mr. Richardson on Crinolette,
Dusra on Otliello, and several others. Mr. Latham on Weaver and
Mr. Pedestrian on Squire started punctually at the appointed hour on
the road at the Old Kennels, and after allowing them twelve minutes
Captain Muir let the field go. A merry rattle down the road brought
us to a sharp turn to the left over a ditch where the first mud wall and
hurdle were placed in an open field. Red R )ver. Pilgrim, Zulu,
Mrs. Harvey, and Beeswing led them across the road at a strong pace,
the course winding down to the right towards the Dhobic's tank and
the old double. Mr. Sholto and Kate Coventry parted company at the
first hurdle, and one or two others had a narrow squeak in consequence
of being baulked ; but we must go forward with the leaders, who were
streaming out of sight, and negotiating every obstacle in an undeniable
style. Mrs. Harvey lost her hat and stopped, which was a pity, as her
horse was going strong, and would have been well to the front at the
finish had she persevered. Three ditches with a fence in front of the
last brought us over to the road again, and down the lane the pace
increased visibly. Pilgrim, Red Rover, and Zulu being still at the head of
affairs. A mud wall lo5t Calcutta's Own his stirrups, and thus stopped
him. A rather novel double in the mango tope puzzled some of the
riders, but no one stopped. We were now very near home, and,
crossing the railway embankment, we turned down to the left over
a mud wall and a hurdle. Pilgrim passing the red flag first with two
Tollygunge winners. Red Rover and Zulu, close up, second and third,
Othello fourth. Beeswing fifth, and Crinolette sixth. The rest of the
field straggled in at intervals, some with hats and some without them.
Messrs. Latham and Pedestrian must be congratulated on the excellent
course chosen and the faultless way in which the paper was laid. It was
noticed that one or two professionals were riding, and while there is no
wish to be disagreeable, there is a disposition to remind them that
these chases are got up purely for sport and not for training horses, and
it is to be hoped that they will take this Irint and not join in any future
chases, or, if they do, that they will kindly keep back until the whole
field have gone before. We do not for one moment grudge them the
course after the chase is over. The next chase will be on Saturday,
we understand, so feed your "mokes' well and come out strong, for
there will be lots of fun ; and if you have not got horses, borrow them.

There was a large field and there were more spectators than usual
at Jodhpore Thannah on Saturday morning to see "the start," for the
fourth chase of the season. Notwithstanding the railway bund which

244

has been put up, and which everyone predicted would spoil our paper-
chases, the courses so far have been excellent, and Saturday's was not
an exception. At the same time, there is no doubt that we are getting
further away from Calcutta ; and unless the new Dock scheme collapses,
we must make up our minds to start earlier, for we cannot do without
our favourite cold weather sport. Amongst the goodly show of starters
we noticed Lord William Beresford on a black, Captain Harbord on
Zulu, Lord Clandeboye on a bay. Captain Muir on Sappho, Mr. Alston
on Pilgrim, Mr. Richardson on Crinolette, Mr. W. W. Petrie on Snark,
Mr. Rawlinson on a grey, Mr. Evans on a bay, Mr. Edwards on Nancy,
Mr. Chapman on Hurricane, Jamie on Curly, Mr. F. Walker on a
brown, Mr. Newall on Trump Card, Mr Sawyer on Nellie, and several
others. Mr. Latham on Weaver and "TheTougall" on Red Rover started
with the paper at the Jodhpore Thannah, and thirteen minutes later the
starters got the word to go. The course lay to the left of the road
towards the railway, where on the high ground was placed a nice long
hurdle, over which the leaders went in line, Pilgrim, Crinolette, Lord
Clandeboye, Trump Card, and Nellie showing well in front. The next
obstacle was a mud wall with a ditch m front, which the leaders negotia-
ted in grand form, but it was too much for some of the tail of the field,
and several stopped short, at least the riders did ; some of the horses
went on without them. A hurdle was the next lep met with, and then
we crossed the road up to the station, and turning to the right came on
a mud wall judiciously placed between two banks ; and on to the road
through a narrow gap So far the leaders were unchanged, and after
rattling down the road we turned to the left over a hurdle on the high
ground, then down into the paddy fields, where the going was rather
heavy ; but it did not last long, and we soon came on to firmer ground
to the right over two mud walls. Three retired Sylhet planters were
racing for the lead as we came across by the lane to the Ballygunge
Road, but going round a sharp corner to the right Crinolette and Nellie
slipped up and got rid of their riders. Mr. Richardson, however, was
not to be done, and getting into the saddle again caught up the leaders
at the two ditches, which had checked some of them Pilgrim had by
this time obtained a strong lead, and as we came into the open was
sailing in front with the race comfortably in hand, the second division
together some three fields behind. After crossing the railway bund
the red flags appeared and Mr. Alison came cantering in first with Lord
Chandeboye and Mr. Richardson riding hard some distance behind
for second honours, which was eventually secured by the former.
Mr. Richardson's third was a most creditable performance for horse
and rider, seeing that they had both been down, thereby losing a lot of
ground. Mr. Newall on his new purchase was fourth, Ballygunge Jim
on old place fifth, Mr. W. W. Petrie on Snark sixth, with Mr. Rawlinson,

245

Captain Muir and several others close up. As the season advances
the horses show a marked improvement, and the fencing of the leading
horses on Saturday was something worth getting up to see. One or
two paperchasers are entered at Tollygunge on Saturday, and we expect
to see them well to the front, for from the earliest records we find that
the Ballygunge paperchases accounted for most of the winners, and
there are several men, here now, who can remember Billycock coming
in a winner at the big tree by the bodyguard lines, while the names of
such winners as Jovial, Snark, Boojum, Telegram, Warwickshire Lad,
The Cripple, Quiet Cove, Blackwater, Zulu, and Red Rover are familiar
to most of us. The next chase will be on Thursday, and as several
men have already announced their intention of being first, it should be
unusually interesting.

There was again a large turn out of people at Ballygunge yesterday
morning, and from seven to half past the road from the Old Kennels to
the corner of the Red Road was crowded with carriages, etc., of all
sorts. The field was also a good one, although some of the horses took
their time to start. We were glad to see two or three of the old paper-
chasers out yesterday, and no doubt several more v/ill appear as the
season advances. We noticed amongst those waiting for the word to
go, Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Lord William Beresford on Prospero,
Mr. Murray on Zil, Lord Clandeboye on a bay, Captain Harbord on
Zulu, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, Mr. Rawlinson on Crinolette, Mr. F.
Walker on a brown, Mr. Newall on Bourbon, Mr. Westmacott on
Saunterer, Mr. Nolan on Sunbeam, Mr. Dickson on Blackboy, Mr.
Cochin China on Telescope, the old man on Jumbo, Mr. Anderson on
Commissioner, Mr. Gregory on a chestnut, Mr. Butler on a bay, and a
good many others whose names we cannot remember.

The paper was laid by Latham on Weaver, and "TheTougall"
on Red Rover punctually at 7-30, and after allowing the horses
thirteen minutes' grace, the field got away in line over a hurdle placed
to the left of the road. Then crossing the road to the right we went
across the corner down to the first mud wall which stopped a few of
the second division. A close bit of jungle forced the leaders into Indian
file, which order was maintained round the tank and down to the
railway line, where we got into open country again. Pilgrim, Prospero,
Mr. Walker, Lord Clandeboye, Crinolette and Zil showing well in front.
Heavy going checked the pace a little until we turned into the lane
leading down to the open ground, across which was placed a mud wall
which every one took, as it was the only way of getting across. The
course now lay to the left towards the railway over a hurdle and mud
wall, then back to the Gurriah Hat Road over a double which the
leaders negotiated in undeniable style, but the second division used it

246

as a sheep-pen, no fewer than six horses being in at one time. They
eventually got out, however, but not without levelling the off wall pretty
well. The leaders were now well ahead along the open. Turning
round to the right we came on two stiffish walls, at one of which Hurri-
cane took off too soon, landing smack into the wall and rolling over on
the far side with his rider, who, however, with the help of a dozen
friendly but noisy Bengalees, caught his horse and followed on. Turn-
ing through the old gateway of the Sandy Lane the pace increased,
Pilgrim leading, with Zil, Prospero and Mr. Walker in close attendance.
Indian file was assumed again along the tank before coming into the
open, where a hurdle and mud wall brought us to the railway bund, and
on turning to the right, the welcome red flags were sighted. Mr.
Walker made a most determined effort to catch Pilgrim, but it was no
use, and the little mare cantered in an easy first, Zil third, Crinolette
fourth, a length in front of Prospero. The rest came in at intervals
amidst cheering words from the gallery, who held a commanding view
of the first hurdle.

The chase of the season, on Saturday, was well attended. Amongst
the starters we noticed Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Captain Harbord
on Zulu, Mr. Rawlinson on Crinolette, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim,
Mr. Newall on Trump Card, Lord Clandeboye on the Demon, Mr.
Westmacott on Saunterer, Calcutta's Own on Copper, the Old Man on
a youngster, Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr. Pain on Paddy, Mr.
Hen on Silver Fox, Ballygunge Jim on Beeswing, Mr. W. W. Petrie on
Snark, Mr. xMylne on a grey, Mr. Cochin China on Telescope, Mr.
Walker on Othello, Mr. Emerson on a chestnut, Mr. John Anderson,
Mr. Drysdale, and a host of others. Mr. Pedestrian on Squire and " The
Tougall " on Red Rover started with the paper at the hour appointed on
the road by the Juggernauth Car, and turning up a green lane were lost
to sight, but the field had not long to wait before the magic word was
given, and away we rattled down the road and up the green lane to the
right, where we came in sight of the first hurdle, a long low one, which
stopped nobody. Turning down a lane to the left a short mud wall
judiciously placed in a corner between two impassable . banks was
likewise negotiated without a mistake. Pilgrim, Copper, Othello, Zil,
and Zulu were gradually making headway from the rest of the field, and
on reappearing in the open at the Red Road, were lengths in front.
After disposing of a hurdle, mud wall and a second hurdle in the
open we crossed the road and found two stiffish walls, at the first of
which Mr. Westmacott's horse took off too soon, and came down with
his rider, who landed heavily on his right shoulder, and broke his collar-
bone. He is, however, we are glad to hear, doing well, and will soon be
out again. The course now wound to the left over the railway bund,

247

and again to the right across the open to the mangoe tope, where a
formidable binder made some of the leaders jump big. The next mud
wall brought Trump Card to grief, but his rider stuck to him phickily
and was soon in the saddle again. Pilgrim, Crinolette, Zil, Zulu, and
Copper were still well to the front, as we bustled through the well-known
gap in the stone wall before turning towards home. The leader was
unchanged as we crossed the railway bund back by the brickfields,
where a nice water jump was placed beside a tank, into which most of
the horses dropped their hind quarters, but no stoppage took place, and
after getting through the brick fields we rattled up the lane for home.
Leaving the road we turned to the left over some blind ditches and a
hurdle, and round by the Dhobie's tank over a stiff mud wall, which all
the horses took beautifully. Othello took a big lep over a small bund
turning down to the open, and, landing on all fours on soft ground, was
unable to extricate himself, and rolled in the mud, where he left his
rider well painted with inuttee. The buzz of the gallery now attracted
the leaders, who quickened the pace, and Mr. Alston giving Pilgrim her
head, the game little mare lauded a winner by three lengths from Zil,
Copper and Crinolette persevering to the end made a dead heat for third
place, Silver Fox was fifth, Beeswing sixth, Mr. Mylne seventh, and
Lord Clandeboye eighth. The others straggled in at intervals much
pleased with themselves and their horses, and mentally placing them-
selves well to the front next Saturday. Altogether the chase was a most
enjoyable one, and as there are only five or six more this season, we
would recommend those who ride to make the most of their oppor-
tunities.

The rain last week stopped our favourite sport, but there was quite
a large gathering at Rallygunge yesterday morning to witness the
seventh chase of the season. Punctually at 7-30 Mr. Latham on
Weaver and Mr. Pedestrian on Squire started with the paper from the
road at Jodhpore Thannah. We noticed amongst the field waiting
to start Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mr. Rawlinson on Forester,
Mr. Richardson on Crinolette, Mr. Murray on Zil, Calcutta's
Own on Copper, " The Tougall" on Red Kover, Ballygunge Jim on
Beeswing, Mr. Butler on Rabbit, Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. Hen on
Silver Fox, Mr. Newall on Trump Card, Mr. Alston on Pilgrim, and
several others. After an interval of ten minutes the word was given,
and away they went, Pilgrim, Red Rover, Copper, and Rabbit taking
the lead over the first hurdle on the high ground The going was
excellent as we skirted the railway down towards the station, where
the pace increased visibly. Pilgrim leading with Red Rover and Rabbit
close behind. Coming out on the road Rabbit took second place, and
further on raced up to Pilgrim, the two leading in turn for the most part

248

of the way. The going on the low ground was heavy as we turned off
the road to the right towards Tollygunge, and one or two of the horses
slipped up, depositing their riders in the muttee. Turning towards home
Rabbit put on the pace and raced along the open neck-and-neck with
Pilgrim, Red Rover lying about ten lengths behind. An enterprising
spectator appearing in sight warned the leaders that the finish could not
be far off, and some hard riding commenced as we rattled down the last
lane for home, when a most unfortunate accident happened to Pilgrim
who slipped up going round a sharp corner, and broke her leg. [This
corner has ever since this accident been called " Pilgrim's Corner." — Ed.]
Red Rover now came up with a wet sail, and overhauling Rabbit, the pair
raced over the last hurdle neck-and-neck, Red Rover ultimately winning
on the flag by a head from Rabbit, Zil third, with Copper, Crinolette,
Othello, and Footlights close up. Great sympathy was felt for
Mr. Alston in the loss of his game little mare ; she was always to the fore
in the paperchases, and stood a great chance of winning the Cup for the
second time for her sporting owner. We trust he may soon get such
another, for we can ill afford to lose such a straight-going pair.

Notwithstanding the change in the weather the interest in these

popular meets does not seem to flag, and the gallery yesterday morning

was quite up to the average. A start was made at the time appointed.

" The Tougall " on Sunbeam and Mr. Anderson carrying the bags.

Neither of tlieir horses were very steady at first, and we saw Sunbeam

carry away a considerable portion of the first mud wall which was

quickly built up again before the chasers started. The scent was well

laid, however, and there was no difficulty in following the " ins and

outs" of the course. The field was a small one, and we missed several

familiar faces. Amongst those present were Mrs. Sanders on Footlights,

Mr. W. W. Petrie on Snark, The Hatter on Silver Fox, Ballygunge Jim

on Beeswing, Mr. Butler on Rabbit, Mr. Richardson on Crinolette,

Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr. Mylne on Merrythought, Captain Rawlihson on

a grey, Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. Sholto on Kate Coventry, Mr. Newall

on Bourbon, Mr. Roberts on a roan, Mr. Jimmie on Bob, Mr. Killian on

a chestnut, Mr. Ackworth on a black, and several others. At the call

of time, Rabbit, Zil, Crinolette, and Snark jumped off with a lead up

the road, and down to the left over a bank and brush fence winding

down towards the left towards the Red Road, which we crossed after

negotiating a hurdle. Across the road a nice mud wall was placed in

the open, and then we crossed towards the brick fields and across the

railway bund, then turned to the left across the open again by the

mangoe tope and over several nice leps, until we finally came out by the

old gates on the Sandy Lane leading down to Jodhpore Thannah. The

249

course now lay down to the right on the low land and round to the right
over two old mud walls built up. Turning down towards the Bally-
gunge station, Zil was at the head of affairs, with Rabbit in close
attendance. The latter assumed the lead as we crossed the road down
to the station, and must have come in first, had he not lost the paper
at the next turn, which was Zil's fate also. This let Crinolette and
Snark in, and the pair ran a ding-dong race to the end, Crinolette winning
by half a length, Zil third, Rabbit fourth, and after a long gap Merry-
thought, Footlights and Othello came in. The gallery mustered strong
at the last hurdle, and witnessed some amusing incidents as the
exhausted hounds came up to the last fence. There were very few
spills.

We would remind those who intend to run for the Cup to see that
their horses are qualified, for there are only two or three chases more
before the Cup Day, and a careful record is being kept. It is not easy
to pick out the winner ; Copper will be dangerous in an open course,
while Rabbit, Zil, Beeswing, Crinolette, Zulu, Trump Card, Red Rover,
and Forester have claims to be considered.

Captam Hayes' class took away a good few of our Paperchasers
this week, but notwithstanding this counter-attraction there was a good
show of spectators, and a large field of starters at the corner of the
Red Road yesterday morning. Some of the villagers had put up a
barrier in front of the first jump during the night, but it was very soon
disposed of by the mali in charge, and at 7-15 the course being signalled
clear, " The Tougall " on Red Rover and Major Davidson on a bay started
with the paper up the road, turned the lane up the left out of sight.
The starters mustered strong, a large proportion of them being quite new
faces. Amongst them were Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Murray
on a bay, Mr. Butler on Rabbit, Mr. Richardson on Crinolette,
Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr. Mylne on Merrythought, Mr. Dusra on Othello,
Mr. Atlay on a chestnut, Mr. Sholto on Galatea, Mr. Newall on
Trump Card, Mr. Killian on a chestnut, Mr. Ackworth on a black,
Mr. Orrell on a bay, Mr, Morgan on a brown, Mr. Barrow on a chestnut
and a lot more whose names we cannot recollect.

Twelve minutes' grace having been allowed to paper carriers,
Mr. Petrie let the field go, Zil, Rabbit, Footlights, and Crinolette
showing in front over the first hurdle. Turning off the road to the left
we negotiated a second hurdle, and now we went up by the brick-kiln
over a nice fence with a good ditch on the off-side, where the first
ncident of the chase occurred, the victim being Crinolette's rider, who
was swept off by a low branch. The same greedy twig, not bemg
content with Mr. Richardson, carried away a portion of Mrs. Sanders'

250

riding habit and several topees. The course now lay towards the
Jodhpore Sandy Lane over two walls, and then across the road to the
"on and off, " quite a novelty in a paperchase. The majority of the
horses took it beautifully, but Mr. Orrell's mount was too eager to get
over it, and shrinking away from under his rider at the off ditch left
that enterprismg sportsman to think how it had all come about. The
leaders were now well on to the Gurriah Hat Road, which was crossed
below the station road, and then we turned homewards over two natural
fences parallel with the road, and on by the lane to the right of the
Thannah down towards the railway over three mud walls and two
hurdles. Emerging from the jungle Zil was shaken up a bit and came
over the last two fences an easy first, three lengths in front of Rabbit,
Mr. Sholto was third up to the last wall which his horse hit hard, and
his rider rolled off, but beyond a slight shaking was uninjured. After a
little time, Mr. Atlay appeared to take third place, and then Merry-
thought, Footlights, Othello, and the rest straggled in at intervals.
The last chase before the Cup day will be held on Saturday next, we
understand, and we would remind those who have not qualified their
horses that it is their last chance.

There was a moderate gallery at Jodhpore yesterday morning to
witness the tenth chase of the season, but the field was the smallest we
have seen this season, possibly on account of the sultry weather, but
the more likely reason is that the horses are now being kept for the
Cup, which is advertised for the loth proximo. We regret having to
record another sad accident, and again to a horse that stood a good
chance of the Cup. We mean Trump Card, who broke his leg at the
" on and off," and had, we understand, to be shot. Mr. Nairn has the
sympathy of all paperchasers, and it is exceptionally hard in this case,
as the horse was only paperchased a short time ago, and showed great
promise of becoming a valuable chaser. Punctually at 7 A.M. Mr.
Latham on Weaver, and " The Tougall " on the great Kingston started
with the paper from the Jodhpore Thannah up the Sandy Lane, to the
right, and twelve minutes later the field followed. We give the names
of those we noticed :— Mrs. Murray on a bay, Mr. Murray on Zil,
Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. W. W. Petrie on Snark, Mr. Richardson
on a bay, Mr. Mylne on Merrythought, Mr. Verschoyle on a bay,
Mr. Atlay on a chestnut, Mr. Nairn on Trump Card, Mr. Ackworth on
a black, Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr. Sniktaw on a bay, and one or two
others. At the call of time Snark, Othello, Trump Card and Mr.
Richardson jumped away with the lead and showed first over the low
hurdle before going up the lane. Leaving the lane the first mud wall
was negotiated, and then the " on and off" which brought Trump Card

251

to grief, and unfortunately finished his career for ever. Turning to the
left we went through some close jungle on tlie high land before emerg-
ing into the open by the bund country, wliere another hurdle divided
the break before coming into a second piece of jungle. The horses
named were still holding the field, leadinj^ in tuin as we turned home-
wards down a long stretch of open which brought us to the Gurriah
Hdt Road. The pace increased visibly as we look the circuit down by
the station, and coming on to the road again the gallery appeared in
full view. Snark and Othello raced over the last two hurdles, the
former winning by about three lengths. Othello, however, was dis-
qualified from taking a place, as he missed a jump, and Mr. Richardson
was, therefore, accorded second place, M enythought third, Mr Atlay
fourth, Zil fifth, Mr. Ackworth sixth, Mr. Verschoyle seventh. We
understand there is to be one chase more next Thursday, and then the
Cup. There will likely be a dozen starters, and it will be a difficult
matter to spot the winner. If Copper comes to the post fit, he will be
difficult to beat, but we are inclined to pin our faith on Rabbit or Zil,
although Crinolette, Othello and Snark's chances must not be over-
looked.

1886-87.

Yesterday morning the Ballygunge Circular Road was once more
alive with vehicles wending their way to the Jodhpore station to witness
the first chase of the season. The muster was as good as has been
seen, and shows that these meets are as popular as ever. Owing to the
lateness of the season and softness of ihe ground, no meet could be
arranged last week, but now that a commencement has been made, it
may be expected these popular meets will be carried on without inter-
ruption, and although the new railway has seiiously interfered with the
favourite gallery course round the Red Road, there is still lots of good
country round Jodhpore, and there is no doubt that the executive will
keep the ball rolling merrily till the Cup Day. There were a good
many old faces at the start as well as many new ones, although there
was disappointment expressed at the actual number that started out
of such a promising assemblage. Among the actual starters were two,
if not more, ladies which is encouraging, and it is to be hoped a few
more of the fair sex will venture to follow next time.

Punctually at 7-30 Mr. Anderson on Bedouin and "The Tougall" on
Red Rover, started with the paper over a low hurdle on the other side
of the railway at Jodhpore station, and ten minutes later Mr. Johnstone
let the field follow. Another week is required before the names of the
riders and of all the numerous horses can be given, but there was no
mistaking some of them— Calcutta's Own on Sappho, Mr. Murray on

252

Zil, Mr. Alston on Rocket, Mr. Atlay on a chestnut, Mr. Currie on
Magpie, Mr. Sniktaw on a bay, Mr. Dusra on Othello. Mr. Eden on a
bay. Captain Rawlinson on a grey, Mr. Ackvvorth on a black, Mr. Orrell,
Mr. Verschoyle, Mr. Campobello on Tim, Dusra Cawmill and a host
of others. The starters drew up in line and went away together
towards the first hurdle, but before reaching so far, the Snark put his
fore legs in a small drain and rolled over his rider, who fortunately was
not much hurt, Sappho got rid of Calcutta's Own over the first hurdle,
and matters looked serious for a first start, but the horses, headed by
Rocket and Jumbo, soon settled down as we raced over the paddy-
fields where a mud wall was placed.

We then turned to the left over two ditches with mud walls in front,
and on through a village inclining round to the light through some
lanes and then on to the open towards the Salt Water Lakes, where we
turned round for home across the road over some nicely placed jumps.
The two leaders had by this time got well away from the field, and came
sailing across the railway towards home with nothing else in sight. The
last four jumps were in full view of the gallery, and some encouragement
was doled out to each rider as he rushed by. Rocket came in some two
or three lengths from Jumbo and then after a long interval Magpie
appeared, followed by a gentleman on a bay, who the gallery called
"Tom," Mr. Atlay was fifth, Mr. Ackworth sixth, Mr. Murray seventh,
Mr. Orrell eighth, and the rest came straggling in at safe intervals.
The next chase will probably be on Thursday morning, when it is hoped
that a larger field of starters and a closer finish will be run. All inter-
ested should qualify their horses early, for there may not be quite so
many chases this year, owing to the lateness of the season and the bad
state of the ground.

It was to be regretted that a better gallery course could not be
provided for Christmas week, but as the crops are still lying about the
Red Road country and the new railway is so much in the way, nothing
could be done inside Jodhpore. The extra distance, however, did not
prevent a large number of people from coming out, and the number of
starters was a long way above the average. The course, though a short
one, was well chosen, and the jumps were judiciously placed, while the
scent was laid thick and unbroken throughout ; indeed, there was
nothing for any one to find fault with, not even the weather which was
cold enough to bring out furs !

The start was at the sixth milestone beyond Jodhpore, on the right
hand side. Among the starters we noticed Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr.
Alston on Trumpeter, Mr. Masher on Tom, Mr. Holmes on Jumbo, Mr.
Roland on a black, Dusra on Othello, Mr. Atlay on a chestnut, Mr.
Currie on Magpie, Captain Muir on a bay, a stranger on Snowstorm,

253

Mr. Gregory on a chestnut, Mr. Boyd on Le Coo, Mr. Eden on a bay,
Mr. Barrow on a bay, Mr. Paget on a brown, Eyeglass Topee on a
chestnut, and a host of others whose names we cannot remember.

Mr. Walker on Malta and "The Touyall" on Red Rover started about
7-30 and freely distributed the paper from start to finish, both horses
fencing beautifully. Mr Johnstone timed, and let the field go in a line
ten minutes after the paper carriers had disappeared round the corners.
Jumbo, Tom, Trumpeter and Zil showed in front as we went Indian
file through the lane towards the first mud wall which all the horses
negotiated in good form. A little more lane brought us to another
open bit, where a hurdle was got over without accident. Turning
to the left we went through some close country, but beyond the
Absaloming of a few ancient topees no damage was done, and we came
out to some grand country with mud walls and hurdles placed at
intervals At one of these Mr. Paget and his steed rolled over, but
neither was hurt, and the horse cantered on with the field, leaving his
sporting owner to finish on foot. Going round a corner of the homeward
turn. Jumbo slipped up and destroyed his chance. His rider was not
hurt and got on again, but too late to catch up the leaders, who were
now at the last turn for home. Mr. Butler on the little pony came in
sight first, and was only caught over the last hurdle by Snowstorm, who
finished first by about a length in front of the pony, Mr. Roland third,
Mr. Alston fourth, Mr Murray fifth, Mr. Atlay sixth, followed by a round
dozen all in a lump.

There was again a large turnout of people at Ballygunge to see the
third meet of the season The Behar visitors turned out strongly and
came well to the front. The number of starters was again above the
average, and included, amongst others, the following : — Mrs. Murray on
Peggy, Mrs. Sanders on Footlights. Ballygunge Jim on Red Rover,
Captain Rawlinson on a grey. Mr. Roland on Rona, Mr. Dickson on
Snowstorm, Captain Wheeler on Robin, Mr. Sniktaw. Mr. Holmes on
Jumbo, Mr Murray on Zil, Mr. Boyd on Le Coo, Captain Learoyd on a
bay, Mr Shins on a bay, Mr. Killian on a chestnut, Mr. Barnes on a
pony, Mr. Alston on Commissioner, Mr. Verschoyle on a bay,
Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane, Mr. Dusra Cawmill on Sidling Sal,
Mr. Tisra Cawmill on Tim, Mr. Taylor on Rob Roy, Mr. Barrow on a
bay, Mr. Robinson on Charlie, Mr. Gregory on Powder, Mr. Orrell on
a bay, Mr. Macnabb on an elephant, Mr. Atlay on foot, and several
others on wheels.

Punctually at 7-30 the Old Man on a Young Un and Mr Walker
on Malta started with the paper down the road at Juggernauth Car,
and turning to the right at the corner of the big wall went out of sight.
Whether it was cold nervousness, or excitement, the next ten minutes

254

«eemed very long, and the word " go " must have been a relief to many.
Away we clattered down the road till ^e came to the comer, where we
turned to the right into a field where the first hurdle was placed, Jumbo,
Zil, Rona, Robin, and Snowstorm showing the way. A little close
country kept the field well together, but as we came in sight of the Red
Road the pace increased and the tailing process commenced. The
railway was crossed without accident, but between this and the Sandy
Lane at Jodlipore some part of the ground wis heavy, and those who
€ased their horses found it paid to do so. Mr. Shins came to grief in
these parts, and was left behind unhurt, his steed going on with the
other horses and taking the jumps as they came, up to the very last ;
coming into the Sandy Lane Rona was leadiuij with Snowstorm, Tom,
and Robin close by. and in this order they crossed the road at the
Thannah. Going round by the railway Mr Butler forced Tom to the
front, but at the second last hurdle the rice proved too fast to be safe.
The pony being unable to collect himself, made a mistake and rolled
over with his rider, who thouj^h stunned by the fdl, luckily escaped
unhurt. Rona now got her head, and shot over the last hurdle in front
of Snowstorm with Captain Wheeler on Robin a good third, Jumbo and
Zil fourth and fifih, respectively. Rob Roy, coming next, jumped too
hijjh for his rider over the last hurdle, and managed to unseat him. He
came down heavily and was considerably shaken. No bones were
broken, however, and we hope to see huii to the front agam next week.
Mr. Barrow was seventh, and the rest finished at intervals during the
next quarter of an hour.

So ended a most enjoyable chase. I hear the Old Man is raising
the jumps at ToUygunge to so.nething like the jumps of former years,
and 1 sincerely trust the experiment will be a success.

No doubt the performance of the " Mikado " and other late
festivities accounted for the rather poor turnout of people at fJallygunge
yesterday morning. The meet was at Jodhpore station, no less than
six jumps being in full view of the gallery, and it was much to be
regretted that the field was so small, for a better course could not well
be found. The going was good througnout, while the jumps were many
and varied, and were spread over about three miles of country Those
who stayed in bed certainly lost a most enjoyal)le ride, and we hope
they will not be so lazy again. Am.^ng the starters were Mrs Sanders
on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on Peggy, B.iHygunge Jim on Beeswing,
Mr Murray on Zil, Mr. Alston on the Major, Mr. Holmes on Jumbo,
Mr Johnstone on North Star, Mr. Sholio on Pygmalion, Mr. Petrie on
Bob, Mr. Verschoyle on a bay, Mr. Masher on Tom, Mr. Prevost on
a grey pony, the Apostle on Cocktail, Mr. Ackworih on a black, Captain

255

Rawlinson on a grey, Mr. Atlay on a chestnut, Major Glancey on his
charger, Mr. Barrow on a bay, and a few others.

Punctually at 7-30 Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Touyall " on Red
Rover started with the paper, a>id ten minutes later Mr. Johnstone
started the field in line over the first hurdle by the Jodhpore station
road, The Major and Jumbo showing the way, before the road had been
crossed. Turning to the left along the railway a hurdle, drop, and mud
wall were negotiated, most of the horses fencing beautifully. Mr.
Prevost's pony cleared the wall at the drop all right, but the ditch was
too broad for him, else he did not see it, and was so pleased with it
that he sat down and let his rider walk over his head ! Descending
into the low ground by the Thannah, Major Glancey overbalanced
himself in his eagerness to counteract the effects of a " peck" and
rolled over into the inuttee. The course now wound up a lane towards
the railway crossing with a mud wall laid across it which was unbroken ;
when the chase was over, Jumbo and The Major were still at the head
of afif.iirs, as we came out into the open where Zil and Beeswing joined
the leaders. Turning to the left we found a hurdle and mud wall which
stopped no one, and shortly afterwards we turned to the right over two
open ditches, and aj^ain to the left over a further series of open natural
ditches which brought us to the road Crossing over towards the Salt
Water Lakes Zil assumed the lead, while Jumbo and The Major made
room for Beeswing, and in this order the road was recrossed. The course
here wound through a narrow lane, which had to be gone through Indian
file. Zil led over the last mud wall before coming to the railway
station, but after coming across the rails he would not turn off the road,
and Beeswing cut in and romped over the last hurdle an easy first much
to the delight of his sporting owner, Zil second, The Major and Jumbo
third and fourth, respectively, Mr. Ackworth fifth, Tom sixth, and
Cocktail seventh. The next man showed the gallery how easy it was
to leave the saddle when the horse hit the hurdle, and we would caution
a few of the beginners to learn the art of sitting back over their fences,
otherwise they must come to grief sooner or later.

Notwithstanding the dissipations of the week in the shape of
dancing, the " MiUado," etc., there were a good many people out at the
paperchase yesterday morning. The starters came out strong, and we
were very f.lad to see among them so many of our military friends.
Thursday morning is selected, as often as practicable, to suit them, and
we hope they will come in even larger numbers next and following
meets. The starters were Captain Muir on The Baron, Mr. Mylne on a
bay. Captain Rawlinson on his grey, Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. Sniktaw
on a bay, Mr. Butler on a chestnut, Mr. Gregory on Sterling,

256

Mr. Orrell on Toby, Mr. Ackworth on a black, Ballygunge Jim on
Beeswing, Major Glancey on a bay. Captain Worlledge on a black,
Captain Garland on a roan pony, Mr. Digan on a charger, Captain
Hunt on a C. B., the Apostle on Cocktail, Mr. Barnes on a grey,
Mr. Barnard on Trumpeter, Mr. Sholto on Pygmalion, Mr. Barrow on a
bay, Mr Henry on a bay, and a good many others whose names we
cannot remember.

The start was from the Jodhpore station, and the finish close to the
Ballygunge station. Between these two points a distance of over
three miles as the course lay, the going was excellent, and the jumps,
nineteen in number, were judiciously placed. The paper was carried as
usual by Mr. Walker on Malta, and " The Tougall " on Red Rover, and
it would be difficult to find better fencers, not a twig being touched all
the way round. Scent was fully distributed throughout, and altogether
inatters looked promising for a good chase. Ten minutes having been
allowed, the field galloped down the road at a steady pace. Over the
first hurdle, Beeswing, Othello, Mr. Mylne, and Toby showed the way,
and changed places occasionally throughout the first part of the chase,
which took us along to the right across a hurdle and mud wall. The
next turning brought us across a bit of last week's chase in the shape
of four open ditches, the last one with a wall placed in front of it. The
Baron made a mistake here, and came down ; his rider, who, however,
was not damaged, was soon in the saddle again. Mr. Butler, who came
to grief almost at the same moment, was not so fortunate, we regret
to say, and broke his arm ; we trust it will soon mend again, for we
cannot afford to lose such a straight rider. After crossing the road
we came round the left and shortly after turned homewards. Going
across the open Trumpeter " pecked " and threw Mr. Barnard, who was
damaged about the head though not seriously hurt. A little further on
Mr. Mylne followed suit, and here our casualties ended. Going across
the new brickfields Othello took the lead from Beeswing, while Toby
took third place, Sterling, Cocktail, Captain Worlledge, and Mr. Ack-
worth close up. After getting through the big ditch the gallery came
in view, and showed, that the finish was not far ofi^. Toby shot in front,
but after negotiating the hurdle at the corner of the jungle he overran
the paper and allowed Ballygunge Jim to come up. Toby, however,
managed to get on the scent again just before reaching the last hurdle,
which he and Beeswing took together. After a brief struggle, and
some hard riding weight told, and Mr. Orrell managed to get Toby
first past the red flag, beating Beeswing by a neck, Captain Worlledge
third, Othello fourth, then Sterling, Cocktail and Mr. Ackworth all in
a lump. It is early to say any thing about the Cup yet, but from all
appearances it promises to be a most open race, and we hope to see
at least fifteen starters.

^57

There was a good turn-out of spectators at Ballygunge yesterday
morning to witness the sixth meet of the season. " After a storm comes
a calm " is an old adage, and a true one, for while we had no less than
four accidents to record last week, no one was hurt yesterday, althou^'h
there were several amusing spills. The going was very fair throuc^hout
while the number of starters must have gladdened the hearts of those who
arrange these popular meets. Among them we noticed :— Mrs. Sanders
on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on Peggy, Lord William Beresford
on a bay, Mr. Alston on Major, Mr. Flummery on Cocktail, Mr. Orrell
on Toby, Mr. Paget on a bay. Captain Rawlinson on a grey, Ballygunge
Jim on Beeswing, Mr. Acworth on a black, Mr. Gregory on Steiimg
Captain Turner on Trumpeter, Mr. Tom Anderson on Commissioner
Mr. Murray on Zil, Mr. Henry on a brown, Mr. Holmes on Jumbo
Captain Hunt on Ella, Captain Garland on Paleface, Mr. Sholto on
Pygmalion, Mr. Killian on a chestnut, Mr. Sniktaw on a bay, Mr. Mylne
on a bay, Mr. Dynamite on Paddy, Mr. John Anderson on Bedouin
Mr. Taylor on a black, Mr. Dusra on Othello, and a few others.

The course, which was well laid, started to the left of the Gurriah
Hat Road opposite the sixth milestone, crossed the road and wound out
towards Tollygunge, through .some villages and gardens where mud
walls and hurdles were judiciously placed at convenient intervals, then
came back round by the open country outside the villages and into the
lane leading down to Jodhpore, where the last two jumps were placed
and where the gallery were arrayed in goodly numbers to witness the
unusually exciting finish.

Shortly after half past seven o'clock Mr. Walker on Malta and " The
Tougall" on Diamond started off with the paper bags, both horses
fencing beautifully, and ten minutes later the impatient field o^ot the
word " go.'^ A rare scramble for the first hurdle ensued, but happily
all got over it safely, though a good many rapped it hard, not to speak
of the numbers who found a resting-place between their horses' ears.
Away they went across the road. Beeswing, The Major, Jumbo, and
Sterling showing the way, with Toby, Cocktail, and Zil following.

After getting through the villages into the open the pace increased
visibly, Sterling making strong running with Beeswing and The Major
lying handy. An amusing incident occurred at the two mud walls in the
open. Mr. Taylor's horse took charge of him over the first of these
obstacles, and jumping high at the second, landed his rider on his neck
where he clung on most tenaciously, but could not get back into his
saddle, to the delight of a crowd of natives who held the high ground
and speculated as to the probable result of this feat of horsemanship,
and as we came by, shouts of " girta," " girta," " girta," were raised,
followed by a joyful shout of "girgya" as he landed on his back in the
vuctiee.

B, CPR 17

258

The leaders were now in the lane for home. Beeswing and Ster-
ling still at the head of affairs. Turning into the last field for home,
the former overshot a jump and went on racing. The Major and Sterling
with Toby and Jumbo following. A regular ding-dong race was kept
up to the last hurdle, where Beeswing came down an awful " buster,"
but beyond a painting of brown clay Bailygunge Jim escaped scathe-
less. Mr. Alston finished first, Sterling a close second, then Toby,
Jumbo, Mr. Acworth, Cocktail, Zil and the rest of the field came in at
intervals much pleased with themselves and their mounts, and mentally
placing themselves well to the front next Thursday. Altogether the
chase was a most enjoyable one, and as there are only five or six more
this season, we would recommend those who ride to make the most of
their opportunities. We regret to learn Mr Alston is leaving us so soon,
but hope to welcome him back on a good crock at the beginning of next
season. As the season advances, the horses show a marked improve-
ment, and the fencing of the leading horses yesterday was well worth
getting up to see. The next chase will probably be on Thursday again,
when we hope to see a large field and a good gallery.

The fact that the start was considerably nearer home this week no
doubt induced a large number of people to go out of Bailygunge, and
they were certainly amply rewarded, for we have seldom, if ever, seen
such a large number of starters. The rain which fell on Thursday did
no harm, but on the contrary made the going very good in some parts
where the ground was hard, while the low ground is not much affected.
Among the starters were Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on
Peggy, Lord William Beresford on a bay, the Maharajah of Cooch Behar
on a chestnut, Mr. Mountflummery on Magpie, Mr. O'Malley on a pony,
Mr. Orrell on Toby, Mr Gregory on Sterling, Mr. Paget on a bay,
Mr. Barnes on a pony, Bailygunge Jim on Beeswing, Mr. Sholto on
Pygmalion, Mr. Murray on Zil, the Prophet on Red Rover, the Apostle
on Sappho, Mr. Anderson on Bedouin, Mr, Dusra on Glhello,
Mr. Acworth on a black, Mr. Dynamite on Paddy, Mr. Holmes on
Jumbo, Mr. Killian on a chestnut, Mr. Mylne on a pony, Mr. Menry on
a brown, Captain Muir on Diamond, Mr. J E. K. B. on Bob, Mr. Snik-
taw on a bay, Mr. Tamvaco on a chestnut. Captain Worlledge on a black,
Kerr Professor on a brown, Mr. Hazenbalg on a roan, the Macnabb on
Selina, Mr. Verschoyle on Donegal, Mr. Harold on Pippin, A. D. C on
Babbler.

The course started to the left of the Gurriah Hat Road beyond the
new railway crossing, wound through the thick jungle by the railway and
came out by the lane to the left of Jodhpore Thannah, then over a mud
wall and a bund on to the high ground along to the old mud wall and

259

ibank jump, across the station road to last week's finish over a hurdle
and across the road to a second hurdle, then it skirted along the path for
a good piece, turning sharp to the nyht over two mud walls and up the
Sandy Lane, turned to the right through the gates, then down to the
right, again over two mud walls and round to the left to the far railway
crossing, eventually finishing over two hurdles by the Sheep-pens.

Shortly after the appointed hour Mr. Walker on Malta and " The
Tougall" on Trumpeter started with the paper bags and soon disappeared
m the jungle ; ten minutes later time was called, and away we bustled
to the first hurdle which was negotiated without accident. The thick
ijungle immediately after compelled an Indian file process, which was,
pursued over the second hurdle and round by the narrow path skirting
the forbidding looking tank where gracefully overhanging bamboos
played havoc among the topees. Coming out into the open Sterling,
Red Rover, Magpie and Mr. Acworth were leading with a strong
second division close up. A mud wall was the next obstacle met with,
but no one was stopped, and we were soon in the lane again where
■another "you must take me" wall was placed across the path. Coming
out into the open at Jodhpore the leaders showed little change, and the
pace was a cracker along the open, over the wall and bank where
Babbler deposited his rider who, however, was not goins.; to be done
out of his ride, and remounting continued the chase. The leatlers had
now got well across the Gurriah Hat Road and streamed along the edge
•of the high ground, then turning to the right took the two mud walls
before coming to the Sandy Lane. The course took a sharp turn to the
right through the gates, but after getting through the jungle opened out
again, and the field went along towards the new railway at a strong pace.
Mr. Acworth was first over the crossing, but gave way to Sterling and Toby
over the second last hurdle. The last named raced hard to the finish, Toby
winning by a neck from Sterling, Magpie a good third. Red Rover fourth,
•and Zil fifth. Mr. Acworth came off at the last hurdle, or ne would have
been well placed. The second division comprising a round dozen, came
>in all together, and then the stragglers came up to the last hurdle amidst
volleys of chaff which Pygmalion refiised to face and stopped short,
allowing Mr. Sholto to go over alone, which he did with alacrity and a
■smile. The Cup looks as if it would be a very open race this year, as
•each chase brings out a new winner. Toby with such a light weight
ought to have a good look in, while Red Rover, Beeswing and Captain
Muir have also strong claims. We would remind competitors that there
■will only be four or five chases before the Cup.

There was an unusually large turn-out of people at Ballygunge
yesterday morning to see the eighth meet of the season. The morning
vwas crisp and cold, furs and ulsters being the order of the day. The

26o

number of starters was again large, over 35 having actually finished,,
including three ladies As long as things go on in this encouraging
way, there need be no talk of giving up paper-chasing. Indeed, we
have never seen it more popular than it has been this season in spite
of the new railway and other drawbacks. The following is a list of

siarters : —

Mrs. Murray on Peggy, Mrs. Eck on a black, Mrs. Rautenburg on
a black, Mr. Tom Anderson on Commissioner, Lord William Beresford
on a bay, Mountflummery on Bourbon, Mr. O'Malley on Gipsy,
Mr. Orrell on Toby, Captain Muir on Diamond, Captain Gordon on a
bay, H r. Murray on Zil, Mr. Turner on a bay, Mr. Rawlinson on
Forester, Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane, Mr. Paget on a bay, Mr.
Gregory on Sterling, Ballygunge Jim on Beeswing, Mr. Acworth on
a black, Mr. Shelto on Pygmalion, the Prophet on Red Rover, Mr.
John Anderson on Bedouin, Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. Dynamite on
Paddy, Mr. Holmes on The Beau, Mr. Killian on his chestnut,
Mr. Henry on Dontcherknow, Mr. Kennedy on Bob, Mr. Sniktaw on
Contrariety, Captain Worlledge on a black, the Macnabb on Selina,
Mr. Shanghai on Mr. Millett's black, and a few others.

The course was, perhaps, a trifle longer than usual, but the going
was excellent, and the jumps, 23 in number, were well placed ; indeed,
from the favourable comments we heard from riders all round, it must
have been an unusually happy selection. Starting to the right of the
road leading down to Jodhpore station over a hurdle, it wound round to
the left by the railway line over the drop and mud wall, and along the
low crround towards the Thannah over a bank mud wall and hurdle,
the latter placed at the entrance to the lane which winds round to the
railway crossing ; and out into the open cross the paddyfields, where
hurdles and mud walls were judiciously placed at convenient intervals,
along to the " Monsoon Road.' The course took a turn round by the
Salt Water Lakes, and back again at the back of the tanks, eventually
finishing with two hurdles not far from the Jodhpore station.

Punctually at 7-30 Mr. Walker on Malta and "The Tougall " on
Footlights started with the paper bags, and after allowing them twelve
minutes' grace. Lord William called time, and away they went in a line,
Zil, Toby, Sterling and The Beau immediately taking the lead. The
pace was slow at first, but after getting out into the open it became a
regular cracker, the leaders racing each other alternately from start
to finish. There were very few spills. The Shanghai paperchaser
found water jumps too big, and gave it up as a bad job. The old
black, however, was not accustomed to this sort of thing, and went on
without him.

Coming back from the Salt Water Lakes Sterling and Zil raced
together all along to the finish, Zil securing the verdict by half a length.

26 1

Othello nnd The Beau a dead heat for third place, Red Rover fifth, and
Toby sixth. Then Beeswing, Commissioner and Lord William came,
followed at intervals by the rest of the field. The mali informed us
that they kept coming in till lo o'clock last week, so we did not wait to
see the end of them ! We would call attention to the Cup advertise-
ment which appeared in Wednesday's issue. We understand it is to be
run for about the loth proximo.

A meet anywhere near the Red Road always attracts an unusually
large number of spectators, and yesterday morning was no exception,
for the road was crowded with vehicles from the corner of the Gurriah
Hat Road down to "the double," well packed with "old familiar faces,"
some of them out for the first time this season. We hope it won't be
the last, though alas I there are not many more chases to see. The field
was quite up to last week, although a strong contingent from the Fort
arrived just too late to start. We were able to notice the following : —

Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mr. O'Malley on Lady Amy,
Mr. Holmes on Sterling, Mr. Orrell on Toby, Captain Rawlinson on his
grey, the Old Man on The Sinner, Mr. John Anderson on Bedouin,
Mr. Rawlinson on Forrester, Mr. Cartwright or Hurricane, Ballygunge
Jim on Beeswing, Mr. Sholto on Pygmalion, The Prophet on Red
Rover, Mr. Campobello on Blue Grass, Mr. Acworth on a black,
Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr. Dynamite on Paddy, Mr. Killian on his
chestnut, Mr. Kennedy on Bob, Captain Worlledge on a black, and a
good many others, among them several strangers.

The course started from the corner of the Red Road over a hurdle
placed in a field by the side of the road, came back to the road again
for a little, then turned to the right and round by the left over a mud
wall, across the Green Lane to the " Duke of Connaught's double,"
down to the right towards the jungle round by the Dhobie's tank to a
mud wall and ditch, over the bund to the long wall at the back of the
jungle, then it came back by the bund along the lane over a hurdle and
up to the Red Road again. After coming along the road a little it turned
sharp to the right and wound round by the open to the railway crossing.
After this it was intended to go out by the back towards Jodhpore, but
the hares finding the field had started, cut across to the first railway
crossing finishing the course over two hurdles in the open by the Red
Road.

The paper was started about the appointed time by " The Tougall''
on Jumbo and Mr. Tom Anderson on Commissioner. Whether it was
that Jumbo objected to " The Tougall's " extra weight or that he was
started too slow, it was evident he was not in a jumping mood, which
seemed to have disturbed his rider's mind considerably. After allowing

262

the usual start of ten minutes Mr. Johnstone let the field go in a linei-
Sterling, Toby, Beeswing and a black showing the way up to the
"double" where a "confusion" commenced ; only by a few of the
leading horses going on without "tarrying" inside the walls. Down^
by the tank Sterling and the others came to the front again, only to be
passed in turn, when a sharp corner came, by Beeswing. Very little
change took place till after the railway was crossed, after which the
pace waxed hot, and as before mentioned the hares were nearly over-
lapped. Abandoning a part of the course, however, the honour of the
chase was saved, and no '' golmal " occurred. Mr. Holmes rode hard
over the railway followed by Beeswing second, and Mr. Acworth third,
then came Red Rover, Othello, and Toby together, followed by the-
remainder of the field at intervals. " All's well that ends well," and
every one seemed pleased with the course and their mounts in general
and with themselves in particular. Beyond a gentle tumble off Gipsy
by Mr. O'Malley no accidents occurred that we heard of, but we would'
caution some of the riders not to ride so hard over the railway cross
ings as the earth is sometimes removed the morning of the chase and'
the rails exposed. Some one suggested that it was useless giving
advice on this subject for there are some men who won't look, would
ride at a church placed in the course if there were no rails round it or
a parson standing at the door ! We are glad to learn Mr. Cartwright
is recovering from last week's " purler."

Notwithstanding the fact that there werelvery many more Jubilee
suppers than dinners on Thursday night, a good many people turned
out yesterday morning to see the tenth meet of the season advertised to
start from Jodhpore Thannah at 7-30. Shortly before that hour the-
following starters put in an appearance : — xMrs. Sanders on Footlights,.
Mrs. Murray on Peggy, Ballygunge Jim on Beeswing, Mr. Orrell on Toby,
Mr. Holmes on The Beau, Mr. Gregory on Sterling, Mr. O'Malley on
Lady Amy, Mr. Kennedy Boyd on Bob, Mr. Killian on Shamrock; Herr
(ierlich on Grane, Captain Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Green way on
Babbler, Mi-. Acworth on a black, Mr. Tom Anderson on Commissioner,
Captain Worlledge on a black, Mr. Barnes on a bay, Mr. Rennie on a
bay, Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane, Mr John Anderson on Rivington,
Mr. Dynamite on Paddy, Mr. Sholto on Pygmalion, Mr. Sandy on.
Blue Grass, Mr. Dusra on Othello, and a few others.

The course started from the left of Jodhpore Thannah over a hurdle
on the high ground and on towards the railway lines, taking in the old.
mud wall and bank, crossed the station road and came back to the
Gurriah Hat Road over a hurdle and mud wall. After crossmg the
road a turn to the left brought it into the favourite " Bund " country,.

263

which extends all the way out to the newly-bricked Tollygunge Lane,
M'hich was the turning point. The line of country back was on a
parallel with the Sandy Lane up to the two mud walls which took us
round to the other side of the high ground. The remainder of the
course was almost a straight run home, the last hurdle being placed on
the high ground close to the road The going throughout was very fair.
Mr. Walker on ]\Ialta and " The Tougall " on Jumbo started with the
paper at about 7-30, both horses fencing beautifully. After an interval
of twelve minutes the field started off at a strong pace over the first
hurdle, which was negotiated safely by all. Sterling, The Beau,
Pygmalion, Beeswing and Toby led over the wall and bank with others,
and Mr. Acworth close behind. Babbler repeated his old tricks here,
and disposed of his rider for a little, but he was remounted and taken
round without further accident. The leading horses were going at a
very strong pace down the bunds. Sterling got the better of his rider
here, and crossed Mr. O'Malley who, in trying to steer clear, came to
grief, but beyond a shaking, we are glad to say, nothing serious
happened Coming back from the Tollygunge Lane, Toby and Beeswing
came to the front, a position they maintained alternately till the last
corner round which Beeswing obtained the advantage by a clever turn
and eventually finished first by a clear length from Toby, Shamrock
third, Sterling fourth, and The Beau fifth- Then came Mr. Acworth
and Herr Gerlich after a long interval. The rest of the field straggled in
quietly. During the next five minutes we observed one or two would-be
sportsmen missing jumps, which is most unpardonable.

The unusual heat yesterday morning did not prevent a large
number of people from finding their way out to Jodhpore station to see
the last meet of the season, except the Cup Chase which, of course, is
only open to a limited number of starters. A few of ihe leading lights
were absent, no doubt saving their horses for next week's struggle, and
the field was therefore not so large as usual. We noticed Mrs. Sanders
on Footlights, Mrs. Routenburg on a black, Mr. Killian on Shamrock,
Mr. Holmes on The Beau, Mr. Tom Anderson on Commissioner,
Mr Acworth on a black, Mr. Gregory on Sterling, Mr Boyd on Bob,
Captain Worlledge on a black, Mr. Dusra on Othello, Mr Edward on
Job Trotter, Mr Cartwright on Hurricane, Herr Gerlich on (irane, and
a few others.

The course started close to the Jodhpore Railway station by the
r.urriah Hat Road over a hurdle on the high ground, a mud wall down
below, and a ditch and bank just before crossing the line. Following
the Monsoon Road for a little the course inclined to the right over a
built up bund and then took a circular sweep down towards the Salt

264

Water Lakes with mud walls and hurdles placed at judicious intervals.
A new thing in jumps was a tree raised on two bamboo trestles about
three feet three inches from the ground, which stopped a good many.
Turning homewards there was a very nice double which seemed to
have taken the fancy of the Ballygunge peasant, for they collected
alongside in hundreds waiting for some " fun." The course from this
point lay across the fields to the road, then across a series of ditches?
finally finishing with two hurdles close to the railway line at Jodhpore
station.

The paper was carried by Mr. Walker on Malta, and •' The Tougall"
on Red Rover, who started a little before 7-30, twelve minutes in advance
of the field, who followed The Beau, Sterling and Othello over the first
hurdle ; going up the lane to the station all the leaders overshot the
paper, which resulted in grief to Othello, who came down over the
corner of the small ditch, and gave his rider a nasty fall, which, how-
ever, is not so serious as it looked, and we hope to see him to the front
again on the Cup Day. Before turning down to the Salt Water Lakes,
Mr. Holmes came to grief over a hurdle, but fortunately escaped
unhurt, although Shamrock tried him as a carpet before passing him.
The leaders all negotiated the log jump without a stoppage, but Grane
refused, and several others following his example, some confusion took
place. Sterling and Shamrock led alternately for the rest of the way,
Shamrock getting the verdict by half a length, Mr. Acworth a good
bit off was third, followed after a long interval by Commissioner fourth,
Grane fifth, and Footlights sixth. We congratulate Mr. Euler on his
first win, which he thoroughly deserves, having worked up to it with
undoubted pluck for the last five years. We saw an unpardonable
offence on the part of some of the spectators a short distance from
home, where several took up a position on the top of a bank where the
horses had to come over. This was quite enough to stop any horses,
and we trust it will not be repeated. Favouritism for the Cup seems
pretty evenly divided between Beeswing or Sterling, Shamrock and Toby.
The last-named has all the advantage of a light weight, which is" also
in favour of Sterling and, while either are good enough to win, we
should not be surprised to see a resolute finish brmg Beeswing in.
Shamrock and Othello have also great claims as well as Captain
Muir's selected.

1887—88.

Judging by the large number of people who found their way to
Jodhpore Thannah yesterday morning, it is clear the paperchases are
going to be as popular as ever ; and indeed more so, for the interest
has no doubt been considerably enhanced by the offer of a Cup to be
given by a sporting paperchaser on terms which appeared in Thursday's

265

paper. No names are disclosed, but we are allowed to say the donor
is a " Burra Salieb " which ought to encourage other IJurra Saheb<; to
allow their assistants to join in this healthy amusement. A record of
the first six past the flag is being kept by one of the hares, and any one
objecting to the placing, as it appears in this paper, the day following
the chase, should lodge objections and reason forthwith, and have any
possible errors rectified. The new railway has sent us further away,
but we are still safe to have our favourite cold weather amusement for
some years to come.

The course yesterday morning was by no means a difficult one to
..get over, and the large percentage of falls must be put down to the
horses being new to the work No one was much damaged, we
are glad to say. The meet started to the left of Jodhpore Thannah
over a hurdle on high ground, turned round to the right over a second
hurdle and mud wall towards the station road across the railway,
and through the village out into the open, where hurdles and mud
walls were encountered at short intervals until the screw pine
ditches near the Monsoon Road were reached where some very
nice jumps were prepared. The course then turned homewards and
finished close to the railway line.

The paper was started by Messrs. Walker and "The Tougall" on
Malta and Jack. Ballygunge Jim (who will be sadly missed in the front
ranks if he elects to stand down) kept time and sent them away in line.
We cannot give the names of all the riders, but we were glad to notice
the following : — Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mr. Alston on The Major,
the Prophet on Red Rover, Duggie on Pygmalion, Boojum on Crusader,
the Ex-Deputy on Sir Launcelot, Mr. Maxwell on Gameboy, the Old
Man on a Young 'Un, Dr. Edwards on Zig Zag, Mr. Butler on Toby,
Jaggerit on Blackberry, Mr. Verschoyle on his new purchase, Mr.
Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Rivers on Magpie, Mr. St. Leger on
Crinolette, Mr. Rose on a pony, Captain Turner on a polo tat, Killian
•on Shamrock, Tom Anderson on a grey, Mr. Eden on a bay, Mr.
Sniktaw on Contrariety, Captain Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Harold on
Pippin, and Dr. Babtie on a C. B.

The first horses to show in front were the Old Rover and Zig Zag
■with Pygmalion and The Major close up, which position was little
changed for the first half of the course. Mr. Alston lost some ground
at the screw pines which he was unable to make up. Coming home-
wards Pygmalion got tired of carrying Duggie, and rolled over to get
rid of him, which let in Toby and Zig Zag, the former taking the lead
-as they came in sight, hard pressed by Red Rover, with Zig Zag and
Shamrock following. Mr. Butler forced Toby too hard at the last
hurdle ; the horse, not being able to collect himself, came down with
his rider who fell heavily, but was eventually able to walk to his tumtum*

266

and is now all right, we were glad to say. This let Red Rover in
past the flags first, with Shamrock not far off second, Blackstone third,
Zig Zag fourth, Crusader fifth, and Blackberry sixth.

The chase on the whole was a most enjoyable one, and the hearts
of the riders must have rejoiced at the large gathering of the fair sex
who found their way to the finish over wire fences, ditches, etc., in a
truly sporting spirit. Two incidents of the chase are well worth men-
tioning as showing pluck and deterniination in getting home among the
leaders One was Mr. Acworth's coming half the journey with only
one stirrup, and the other was the smart way in which Dr. Edwards
remounted and came in after rolling in a peafield close to the finish.
Better luck to them next time.

The gallety at yesterday morning's chase reminded us more of a
Cup Uay than an ordinary meet, and the sporting way in which the
ladies (including the Belvedere party) trudged through ploughed fields
and rough ground to be present at the finish was really refreshing to
witness. Before going any further I must correct the record of the first
six in last week's chase which should have been — First Mr. Prophit on.
Red Rover, second Mr. Euler on Shamrock, third Mr. F^orsyth on King,
fourth Dr. Edwards on Zig Zag, fifth Mr. Cartwright, and sixth Mr.
Millett en Blackberry. I would strongly urge gentlemen riding in the
chases not to join in on the way and ride up for a place. It leads to-
endless confusion, and is unsportsmanlike to put it mildly.

The course was a long one, and consequently the pace was not fast.
It started about a quarter of a mile beyond the Jodhpore Railway
Station, then turned to the right into the open country out towards the
Salt Water Lakes, and then across the open to the left and back to the
Monsoon Road and home by the screw pine ditches, finishing on the
low ground close to the railway. The going throughout was excellent,
and the few spills recorded so that the horses are already beginning to-
know and like the game.

The usual hares — Messrs Walker on Malta and The Tougall on.
Jack — started at the appointed hour and laid a free scent from start to-
finish, disturbing neither mud nor timber. Ballygunge Jim again,
wielded the imaginary flag and let the impatient field go after allowing
the hares ten minutes start. I do not pretend to be able to record all'
the names, but the following represent the bulk of the starters : —
Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on Peggy, Mrs. Cautley on.
Jack, Miss Atkinson on a black pony. Miss Smith on Benjamin,
Mr. Alston on The Major, Duggie on Zig Zag, the Ex-Deputy on
Sir Launcelot, Dr. Edwards on Brenda, Boojum on Crusader, Mr.
\'erschoyle on a brown, Mr. Acworlh on Blackstone, Mr. Rivers on*

26;

Magpie, Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette, Captain Turner on a pony,
Mr. Sniktaw on Contrariety, Captain Rawlinson on his new mare,
Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, the Old Man on a Young 'Un,
Mr. Eden on a bay, Mr. Dangerfield on liuck, Mr. Butler on
liadminton (late Toby), Mr. Murray on Maud, Mr. B. on a grey,
Captain Hunt on a black, Captain Garland on a C. 1>., Mr. Showers on
a brown, Dr. Clark on a bay, Mr. Barnes on a bay, Mr. Kidston on a
pony, Mr. Evans Lombe on a C. B., and a good many others who
must forgive me for not remembering their names.

A good dozen cleared the first hurdle, but the first mud wall stopped
a few. The Major among the number ; Badminton, Sir Launcelot, Buck
and Zig Zag got well away, but the next hurdle did for the Ex- Deputy,
who had to trudge the rest of the journey on foot. Maud crept up into
the front rank, coming across to the Monsoon Road, where Duggie
found a soft spot, and parted company with his mount. The screw
pme jump did for Mr. Kidston, who was riding gallantly on a little
pony ; but we are behind the leaders who are putting on the pace as
they spot the gallery in the distance : Mr. Murray was first over the last
mud wall, but taking rather a wide turn let up Buck and Badminton,
these racing home in good form. Buck was quickest over the las;
hurdle, and passed the flag first, fully half a length in front of Maud,
who just beat Badminton by a head for second place, Contrariety fourth,
Blackstone fifth, and Crinolette sixth. The remainder of the field came
in at intervals evidently much pleased with the morning's ride, and so
ended the second chase The names of the first six are now read out
immediately after the chase, and no objection holds unless proved and.
rectified on the spot.

There was not a very large turn-out yesterday morning to witness the
third meet, neither did the starters muster so strong, but it was a most
enjoyable paperchase all the same. It is pleasant to record a lady's-
name in the first half dozen this week, and should Mrs. Murray come in
for the Cup presented by our sporting friend, Ballygunge would re-echo-
the cheers accorded to Mrs. Cook when she landed " Champion ^' a
winner of the Cup in 1882.

The course started a little this side of Jodhpore Thannah, over a
hurdle and green bank out into the open where last week's chase
finished, then on to the screw pine jumps across the Monsoon Road
and away out by the Salt Water Lakes, returning home through the
village by the Jodhpoie railway station and finishing in the open ground,
by the Station Road. The going was again all that could be desired,
and we only heard a rumour of one spill, at least we were told one mar-
was seen astride a mud wall scratching his head.

268

Shortly after the appointed time Messrs. Walker and " The Tongall "
■on Malta and Jack started with the bags, and ten minutes later the field
were allowed to follow. I think the following list of starters is about
correct: — Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on Maud,
Mrs. Norman on Brenda, Dr. Edwards on Mustella, Mr. Butler on
Badminton, Captain Burn on a bay. Captain Rawlinson on Duchess,
Mr. Kingsley on Lady Bird, Jemmie on Bob, Mr. Cooper on a bay,
Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette, Mr. Dangerfield on Buck, the Ex-Deputy
on Sir Launcelot, Dr. Clark on a bay, Mr. Eden on a bay, Mr. Kidston
on a pony, Mr. Petrie on Scots Grey, Mr. Cowie on a bay, Mr. Parsons
on a brown. Captain Hunt on a brown, Mr. Dunne, Jr., on a bay,
Mr. Acworth on Blackstone and perhaps one or two more. Mustella,
Badminton, and Buck took up the running after getting over the first
hurdle, and continued to lead alternately until the open was reached,
where Buck lost the scent and was out of it. Captain Burn now
came up and joined the leaders, and the pace, after turning for home,
increased visibly. Mustella was over the last mud wall first, but
taking a wide turn at the corner let up Badminton and Captain Burn.
The former came past the flag comfortably first, two lengths in front
of Captain Burn second, with Mustella a neck behind third, then after
a short interval Mr. Acworth came in fourth, closely followed by
Ladybird fifth, with Mrs. Murray not far off sixth, Duchess was seventh,
"Crinolette eighth, Mr. Dunne ninth, Buck tenth, and Captain Hunt
eleventh.

It was like the good old times to see a meet at Juggernauth Car, and
no doubt its being nearer attracted the large gallery. The field was
also larger than last week's and I regret to add that spills were again
in the ascendant. This was not, however, due to any extra stiffness in
the jumps, but in many cases to some thoughtless riding.

It was generally known throughout the paperchasing community
that the course this week, unlike those of previous chases this season,
was not a galloping one, and starters were cautioned to have their
horses well in hand throughout, which caution was regarded by the
majority, and a prettier sight than the field crossing from the gates on
the Sandy Lane to the high ground opposite, with the horses well in
hand, would be difficult to find. The course started on the Gurriah Hat
Road at Juggernauth Car, leaving the road a couple of hundred yards
lower down where the first hurdle was placed in a field to the right ;
then wound round through the jungle towards the Red Road, which
was crossed by the " Duke of Connaught's double." Winding round
to the right on a parallel line with the new railway it came out on the
lane leading up to the level crossing, and came along the other side.
It then wound up to the right and came out at the old gates on the

269

Sandy Lane, crossed over to the high ground, and wound back to the
finish on the low ground by the Sandy Lane leading up from Jodhpore
Thannah. The going was good throughout, and many of the old
paperchasers expressed themselves well pleased with the course It was
a fair hunting course, without being in any way trappy and on the
whole easy to negotiate.

The hares of the day, viz., the Old Man on Bedouin and " The
Tougall " on Jack, started with the bags shortly after the appointed hour,
and after the usual time allowance were followed by a goodly field,,
among whom we noticed Mrs. Murray on Maud, Mrs. Blisset on Cirane,
the Prophet on Red Rover, Captain Burn on Diamond, Mr. Alston on
Blazes, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Dr. Edwards on Pearl, Herr Gerlich
on a bay, Mr. Walker on Malta, Captain Gordon on a new one,
IMr. Dixon on Lola, Captain Rawlinson on Duchess, Mr. St. Leger
on Crinolette, Mr. Coward on Job Trotter, Mr. Henry on a bay,
Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Indigo Billy on Molly, Mr. Cowie on
a C. B., Mr. Cartwright on Bourbon, Mr. Kidston on a'pony, Mr. Danger-
field on Buck, Mr Saunders on Charlie, Mr. Boyd on Bob and several
others.

The leaders negotiated the first hurdle in good style, but a refusal
in the tail end kept the bulk of the slower ones at the first hurdle for
some time ; Pearl came down early in the race over a small blind ditch,,
but his rider was equal to the emergency, and nipped up again minus a
boot Crossing the Red Road Blazes, Diamond, Buck, and Badminton
were well in front with Red Rover, Lola and Crinolette not far oft^".
There was little alteration in this order throughout, one or other of the
horses named leading in turn, and all fencing beautifully. The pace up-
to near the end was moderate, but the buzz of the gallery, attracting
the attention of the riders, was the signal for putting on the pace,
and Diamond, Buck and Blazes c;ime round the last corner at a cracker.
The two first named took a wide turn, and were practically knocked
out, and although Buck's rider tried to come in again, it only led to
his crossing in front of Blazes, the lesult being a fall to both.
Fortunately neither was hurt, but it might easily have been otherwise.
The jumble let in Badminton and Pearl," who finished first and second
in the order named, Lola third. Captain Gordon fourth, Red Rover^fifth
and Crinolette sixth.

On New Year's day the sporting community of Barrackpore turned
out at 7 O'clock for a paperchase, the first that has taken place here for
upwards of three years The following members assembled near the
Club House :— The Examiner on Hector, Chawbs on the Begum, a
Calcutta visitor on an iron grey, John D. on Ginger, the Policewalla on
a fiery Arab, the Silent One on Vivid, the Serampore INLasher on a dark
bay, the Nobb Garrison Captain on his tat, Gubbins on a chestnut,

270

Ginger on Alice, and i^iownie on Robin. The start took place at half
past seven punctually across the Artillery I^idin^*^ School jumps, past the
elephant lines, and along a bye road across the railway ; the pace was
tremendous not to say dangerous. Brownie, who had laid the paper on
■the previous evening, led the way, closely followed by the Nightinjiale,
John D., Chawbs, and the Serampore Masher. Turning off to the right
the paper lay over several awkward jumps in a close cultivated country
where few followed correctly, owing to the natives having taken up the
paper. Across some rough open ground nearly the same order was
maintamed, the Begum apparently taking Chawbs for a gallop according
■to her own fancy, jumps of all sorts were manipulated, as also were
falls and scrambles. A broad water jump put the Silent One Jiors de
combat^ while a bank and ditch proved fatal to the Calcutta visitor who
trudged home the remainder of the way. A long gallop down a grassy
lane then followed, Brownie, Chawbs, John U. and the Serampore
Masher heading the string. A slope proved too much for the Begum,
who crossed her forelegs, bringing Chawbs a tremendous cropper.
The paper then led over two small jumps across the railway and along
the Station Road, through a Bazaar, and finished over a couple of
• ditches near the Cricket Ground, Robin and Serampore Masher close
together, John D. well up third. A chota haz ri was provided on the
Cricket Ground by David and Jonathan, where several ladies were
assembled anxiously awaiting the safe arrival of the sportsmen.

The time taken from start to finish was r8 min. 5^2 sec. by Benson's
chronometer. Two ladies deserve special praise for riding from start to
finish without a check, and it is to be hoped that on the next occasion
still more will find their way to the meet.

The fifth chase of the season met at Jodhpore Thannah yesterday
morning. There was a large turn-out of spectators and a goodly
number of starters, indeed condsiderably more "starters" than "finishers."
The second mud bank seems to have been too much for some of the
horses, and the number of refusals was a caution. Only twotleared it
at the first go-off, and I am told some twenty horses were hung up for a
considerable time, causing endless amusement to the onlookers. 1
-noticed a paragraph in Monday's paper in which a correspondent com-
ments on my criticism of the accident in last chase. I have read over
my remarks carefully, and cannot find any allusion to " foul riding, ' or
even " reckless riding.'' The former term is quite foreign to Calcutta
paperchasers, and its mtroduction quite unnecessary. I am quite sure
Mr. Dangerfield never thought anything beyond a friendly caution was
meant by my remarks ; and if he will look over accounts of former
chases, he will find that a good many of us came in for equally severe
criticism in our day.

271

The course was a trifle Ion<jfer than usual, and some of the jumps
more formidable ; notably the second mud wall which was built after
the rains, and has settled down into a ^ood substantial "lep." The
titart was to the left of Jodhpore Thannah, across to tlie railway line
and over the Station Road, then along the Gurriah Hat Road for a
little down to the right through the Tolly^unge Gardens, comlnj;
back through the villages and finishing on the low ground opposite the
Station Road. The going was a .little heavy throuyhoui, Ijut this is a
fault which will very soon rectify itself.

The paper was laid by Messrs. Walker and " The Tougall " on Malta
and Jack, Ballygunge Jim officiating as starter. Among the field were
Mrs. Murray on Maud, Mrs, Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. lilisset
•on Grane, Dr. Edwards on Rufus, Herr Gerlich on a bay, the Ex-Deputy
•on Sir Launcelot, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Mr. Verschoyle on his New
One, Mr. Prophit on Red Rover, Lord William Beresford on Diamon<l,
Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette, Colonel Pole Carew on a bay, Mr. Alston
•on his black mare, Mr. Cartwright on B )urbon, Mr. Cowie on Tinker,
Captain Gordon on Hot Coffee, Major Glancey on a bay, Mr Parsons
•on Atlay, Dr. Clark on a bay. Captain Gore on a bay, Mr. Kingsley on
Ladybird, Mr. Finucane on a bay, Mr. Dunne on Ladybird, Captain
Rawlinson on Duchess, Mr. Kidston on a pony, Mr. Cioward on Job
Trotter, and a few more.

At the call of time Rufus and Badminton went away with the lead,
and matters went well up to the first mud wall, where Major Cilancey
came to grief. The second mud wall was negotiated by Rufus and
Badminton in good style, but the remainder of the field were hung up for a
considerable time, two ponies eventually showing the way. The two
■leading horses were fully 300 yards in front of anything else, and making
their own pace came in as they liked, Badminton beating Rufus for firs
■honours close to the winning flags. After a considerable interval Mr.
Verschoyle and Mr. Prophit followed in the order named with Mr. Dunne
and Mr. St. Leger a long way behind, fifth and si.\th.

The season is wearing on, and yesterday morning witnessed the
sixth meet. A large number of people found their way out to the start-
ing place, a little beyond Jodhpore, opposite the Station Road. The
field was not a very large one, however, but the fevv who started had a
■most enjoyable ride. The course was considerably shorter than usual, the
lime occupied being only 8>2 minutes. It ran from the low ground oppo-
site the Jodhpore Station Road, starting with a low hurdle, followed the
path by the tank into the open over a mud wall, and then took a turn to
the left over a bush fence with a ditch on the near side. Turning again to
^he right, it led straight out to the Tollygunge Lane, where it turned

272

round through some thick jungle, coming out again on the low ground
along the gardens, back to the Gurriah Hat Road, and round by the
station to the low ground by the bamboos, on the opposite side of the
road from the start, where the flags were placed. The going, though a
trifle uneven, was better than that of last week, and the number of spills
were trifling.

The paper was carried by the Old Man on Bedouin and " The Tou-
gall "on Jack, who started at 7-30, followed by the field ten minutes later.
The following were among the starters : — Mrs. Murray on Maud, Mrs..
Blissett on Grane, Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette, Mr. Alston on The Major^
Mr. Butler on Badminton, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Prophit on
Red Rover, Duggieon Retreat, Mr. Petrieon Footlights, Mr. O'Malley on
Bourbon, Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Verschoyle on a brown. Dr.
Edwards on Somersault, Mr. Parsons on Atlay, Mr. Kingsley on^
Ladybird, Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane, the
Ex-Deputy on Sir Launcelot, Mr. Anderson on Commissioner, Mr.
Barnes on Mustella, ]\Ir. Kidston on a pony, Mr. Euler on Shamrock,^
Captain Burn, Mr. Merewether on a pony, and a few more.

The leading division got over the first hurdle in good style, and
went on their way at a merry pace, Red Rover, Badminton, Somersault,,
and Blackstone showing well in front. Meantime Ballygunge Jim was
helping some of the tail end to get over the several obstacles by loud
shouts and gesticulations. Even these strong measures were insufficient
to persuade some of the horses to go on, at all events with their riders,
some of whom were left behind to examine the nature of the ground.
The leaders were now well on to the Tollygunge Lane, where Red
Rover and Blackstone lost a lot of ground through overshooting the
paper. Badminton was at the head of affairs coming back, and though
pressed by Red Rover at the finish, won all out by a length from Red
Rover, Blackstone third, Somersault fourth. Footlights fifth, and
Bourbon sixth, then came Job Trotter, The Major, Mr. Verschoyle and
Mr. Murray.

I have not made up the figures for the " Average Cup," but_a glance
at the records shows Mr. Butler first, with Mr. Prophit second, and
Mr. Acworth third, and unless something unforeseen happens to
Badminton or his owner, his chance is very rosy indeed.

No doubt yesterday being a close holiday accounted for the
unusually large turn-out of spectators who found their way to the start
for the seventh meet of the season at Dacuria Thannah. Lord William'
Beresford brought down a party from Government House on his coach,
and there were carriages of every description full of people down to the
humble but useful ticca gharry. The nuniber of starters was far above

273

the average, and as few came to grief, I presume the ride was a pleasant
one to most of them. The course was perhaps the longest we have had
this season, being well over, three miles with about 22 jumps placed at
judicious intervals. It ran from the low ground to the left of Dakuriah
Thannah, where the first hurdle was placed, through the jungle over a
second hurdle and down by the railway towards Jodhpore. Three mud
walls had to be negotiated before appearing in the open at Jodhpore
Thannah, where the course turned sharp to the left towards the railway
over another mud wall and then round by the tank to the two favourite
ditch and bank jumps. Winding round to the right along the Station
Road, it crossed the Gurriah Hat Road, and went along the low piound
where last week's chase started over a hurdle, then turning sharp to the
left over a mud wall with a considerable drop. Following the lane it
reversed last week's course out to the Tollygunge Lane and back to the
bush fence from which point it went straight across to the Sandy Lane
entering the jungle through the old gates. Some pretty hunting ground
was then passed through, the finish eventually appearing in an open
field close to the start on the opposite side of the road. The going
throughout was excellent, and to those who overshot the paper 1 would
mildly suggest : —

" Ask for them and see you get 'em,
Solomon's spectacles are the best."

The hares of the day were " The Tougall" and Mr. Alston mounted
respectively on Diamond and Hadji. I am sorry I cannot remember
all the starters, but the following were all there : — Mrs. Sanders on
Footlights, Mrs. Murray on Peggy, Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette,
Mr. Flower on a bay, Captain Burn on Nellie, Mr. John Anderson on
the Sinner, the Old Man on Blazes, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone,
Dr. Edwards on Hurricane, Mr. Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Goward on
Job Trotter, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Mr. Prophit on Red Rover, the
Ex- Deputy on Sir Launcelot, Mr. Petrie on Scots Grey, Captain
Rawlinson on Duchess, Mr. Tom Anderson on Great Scot, Duggie
on a chestnut, Mr. Murray on Maud, Dr. Clarke on Somersault,
Mr. Rivers on the Gift, Herr Gerlich on Grane, Mr. Barnes on Mustella,
Mr. Euler on the Buzzard, Mr. Ellis on Pippin, Mr. Boyd on Robert,
Mr. Lombe on a grey, and Mr. Mead on a bay.

Ballygunge Jim gave the word after allowing the hares the usual 10
minutes, and away went a goodly dozen, clearing the first hurdle in line.
The heavy jungle forced them into Indian file, which was maintained
until they appeared at Jodhpore, Dr. Edwards leading them at a good
pace on Hurricane till they were over the two big jumps by the railway,
where Red Rover and Badminton took up the running followed by
B, CPR 18

274

Blackstone, Maud, and Crinolette. This order was kept with little
change all the way out the ToUygunge Lane and back to the bush fence,
where Butler and Prophit lost the scent and raced to an imaginary
finish on a course of their own. Mr. Verschoyle attended by Blackstone
now took up the running, and came in first and second in the order
named. After a considerable interval Mr. Flower found his way in
third, with Rawlinson fourth, Job Trotter fifth, and Maud sixth.

I annex the result of the first seven chases, which may interest
competitors in the "Average Cup."

isl C/iase.— I, Froph'n on Red Rover ; 2, Euier on Shamrock; 3,
Forsyth on Little King ; 4, Dr. Edwards on Pearl ; 5, Cartwright on
Crusader ; 6, Millett on Blackberry.

29jd Chase.— i^ Dangerfield on Buck ; 2, Murray on Maud ; 3, Butler
on Badminton ; 4, Watkins on Contrariety ; 5, Acworth on Black-
stone ; 6, St. Leger on Crinolette.

-^rd Chase. — i, Butler on Badminton ; 2, Burn on Diamond ; 3,
Edwards on Mustella ; 4, Acworth on Blackstone ; 5, Kingsley on
Ladybird ; 6, Mrs. Murray on Maud.

^tk Chase — i, Butler on Badminton ; 2, Dr. Edwards on Pearl : 3,
Dixon on Lola ; 4, Gordon on Hot Coffee ; 5, Prophit on Red Rover ; 6,
St. Leger on Crinolette.

^th Chase. — i, Butler on Badminton ; 2, Dr. Edwards on Rufus ; 3,
Verschoyle on The Snob ; 4, Prophit on Red Rover ; 5, Dunne on Lady-
bird ; 6, St. Leger on Crinolette.

6th Chase — i, Butler on Badnnnton ; 2, Prophit on Red Rover; 3,
Acworth on Blackstone ; 4, Douglas on Retreat ; 5, Petrie on Foot-
lights ; 6, O'Malley on Bourbon.

yth Chase. — i, Verschoyle ; 2, Acworth on Blackstone; 3, Flower
on a bay ; 4, Rawlinson on a bay ; 5, Coward on Job Trotter ; 6, Murray
on Maud.

The attendance at the eighth meet yesterday morning was rather
meagre, although the number of starters was quite up to the average.
No doubt the Fancy Dress Ball of the previous evening had a great
deal to do with the scant gallery. The morning was crisp, and those
who did manage to get up had an enjoyable ride.

The course, though not quite so long as last week's, was a very good
one. It started from last week's finish over the usual hurdle and turned
into the jungle at once, taking in a mud wall built up since last chase.
The exit to the old gates was altered, and after crossing the Sandy Lane
it went out towards the ToUygunge Lane by the new brickfield and
returned by the ToUygunge Gardens, winding in and out through some

275

close jungle and round sharp corners, eventually finishing in the open
space behind the Jodhpore Station Road. The rain had softened the
ground very considerably which made the going good, and the few who
came to grief had nothing much to complain of.

Messrs. Anderson and Walker carried the paper on Great Scot and
Malta, and Ballygunge Jim again acted as starter. The following is a
list of starters : —

Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mrs. Blisset on (nana, Mrs. Sanders on
Cleopatra, Mr. Alston on the Major, Mr. J. Anderson on The Sinner
Mr. Sheriff on Bourbon, Dr. Clark on Somersault, Herr Gerlich on
a chestnut, Mr. Coward on Job Trotter, Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette
Dr. Edwards on Footlights, Mr. Prophit on Red Rover, Mr. Butler on
Badminton, Captain Henderson on a bay, "The Tougall" on Diamond,
Mr. Acworth on The Snob, Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Captain Burn on
a brown. Captain Birdwood on a pony, Mr. Ross on Lady Gertrude
Mr. (jrant on a chestnut pony, and a few more.

Badminton and Red Rover took up the running at the call of time,
followed by Footlights, Captain Henderson, and Blackstone, which
order was maintained with little alteration till they came out at the old
gates on the Sandy Lane where the leaders hesitated, and Blackstone
Captain Henderson and Diamond took up the running out to the
T()llyi;unj4e Lane. Badminton came on here again and turned home-
wards with a i;ood lead from Captain Henderson, Blackstone and
Diamond, Red Rover lying close behind. A sharp turn threw two of
the leaders out a bit and Blackstone led the field along at a merry rattle,
the close country was reached, where he came to temporary grief by
colliding with a tree and dislodging his rider, who, however, was not
long in getting on again. On getting into the open again Badminton
nipping round a sharp corner resumed the lead, which he kept to the
finish, Red Rover second, Diamond third. Footlights fourth, Mr. Ac-
worth fifth, and Captain Henderson sixth.

The Paperchase Season is drawing to a close like all other cold
weather amusements, and with the exception of the Cup Chase the
present month will see the end of these popular meets. That the
weather is getting warmer was only too apparent, judging froni the slate
the horses were in as they finished. The course was longer than last
week's. It started from the Jodhpore Station through the village by the
railway line going along the open country by the favourite screw pine
jump to the Monsoon Road. After crossing the road it went through
some gardens and jungle by the back of Ballygunge, and eventually
finished close to the Ballygunge Station. Jumps were pretty numerous,
a good many of them being natural ones. The going was very good

276

indeed, and I only heard of one spill which shows how the horses
improve as the season goes on.

The hares of the day were Messrs. Walker and " The Tougall" on
Malta and Jack. The following is a list of starters It is smaller than
usual owing to the Calcutta Mounted Rifle Camp of Exercise which
kept a good few away : — Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Murray on
Maud, Miss Scott on Peg, Mrs. Cautley on Jack, Mr. Verschoyle on The
Snob, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Mr. Fetrie on a bay, Mr. St. Leger on
Crinolette, Mr. Prophit on Red Rover, Mr. Mills on Duchess, Mr. Tom
Anderson on Great Scot, Captain Muir on a bay, Mr Barnes on Mustella,
Captain Henderson on Donegal, Captain Rawlinson on Duchess, The
Hon Basil Blackwood on Sarus, Mr. John Anderson on The Sinner,
Mr. Playfair on a bay, Captain Burn on Diamond, Tviajor Hunt on a
brown, Dynamite on Paddy, Herr Chrystal on a bay, Mr. Thomas on
Donald, Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane, Mr. Clay on a grey, and a few

more.

Ballygunge Jim was again to the front with his well worn flag
despatching the field in line ten minutes after the hares had started.
Donegal and Red Rover took up the running at once, with Badminton
and Duchess close behind, which order was maintained with little
alteration up to the last hurdle, when Badminton came up and beat
Donegal for first place, coming up to the winning flag, Red Rover third,
Duchess fourth, Crinolette fifth, and The Snob sixth. The sporting way
in which the youthful rider of Sarus went round the course was the
event of the morning.

The muster at the ninth meet on Thursday morning was small,
probably owing to the Calcutta Mounted Rifle Camp at Ballygunge,
as these warriors were not permitted to go and see the chase. Their
own fixture for the heavy and light weight Cups was to have been over
the same course yesterday morning, but unfortunately the heavy rain
interfered. I believe Saturday, the 8th, has been decided on for the
sporting event

The course started from the open field by the left of Jodhpore
round by the two favourite banks along the railway and round by the
station across the road to the " Bund " country, and out to the
ToUygunge Lane, returning and finishing opposite the Jodhpore Station
Road on the Gurriah Hat Road.

The following started : — Mrs. Blisset on Grane, Mrs. Sanders on
Christine, Mrs. Cautley on Jack, Captain Burn on a pony, Captain
Henderson on Donegal, Captain Birdwood on a bay. Captain Garland
on a bay, Captain Rawlinson on Duchess, Mr. Cartwright on Hurricane,
Mr. Prophit on Red Rover, Mr. St. Leger on Crinolette, Mr. Butler on
Badminton, Herr Gerlich on a bay, Mr. Anderson on The Sinner,

277

Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Herr Gauhe on a grey, Mr. Ac worth on Black-
stone, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, and one or two others whose names

I could not get

Mr. Walker on Malta and Mr. Anderson on Great Scot carried the
paper, while Ballygunge Jim was at his usual post, and sent them away
promptly up to time. Blackstone, Shamrock, and The Snob led the field
away at a smart pace, which was kept up throughout the run, the leading
division, spurting in turn till they came in sight of the red flags, where
Shamrock appeared to have the race in hand, but Badminton coming
away in great form in the last fifty yards grasped first honours by a
length, Red Rover third, Herr Gauhe fourth, I*.Iackstone fifth, and The
Snob sixth

Owing to the soft state of the ground the paperchase had to be
postponed to Saturday. There was an unusually large turnout of
spectators who mustered in force at the second last jump where the
tnali informed enquirers that it was the place where Braspot sahih
gir^ya.

The course started from the lane leading down from Jodhpore
Station and went out into the open towards the Salt Water Lakes
returning across the Monsoon Road and finishing in the open close to
the railway line. There were the usual mud walls and hurdles with the
addition of some pretty natural ditches and banks. The going was
perfect owing to the late fall of rain which softened the surface of the
soil without making it too heavy. Messrs. Walker and J. Anderson
carried the paper on Malta and Bedouin, and Ballygunge Jim was in his
usual office at the start- The field was hardly up to the average.
Among the starters were : — Mrs. Blisset on Grane Mrs. Murray on
Maud, Mrs. Grey on a bay, Captain Henderson on Donegal, Lord William
Beresford on Diamond, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr. Butler on
Badminton, Mr. Emerson on a bay, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone,
Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Murray on Zil,
Captain Rawlinson on Duchess, Herr Gerlich on a bay, Mr. Cartwright
on Hurricane, Mr. Kingsley on Ladybird, Major Hunt on a bay,
Mr. Dynamite on Paddy, Captain Burn on a pony, Mr Aprar on a pony,
The Apostle on a brown, Mr. Cowie on Patch, Dr. Clark on Somersault,
and a few others

Blackstone, Shamrock, and Badminton went away at the call of
time with a good lead, followed by Maud and The Snob, which with a
little alteration brought them back to the Monsoon Road, where
Badminton took the lead followed by Blackstone. Mr. Emerson and
Badminton ran out at the last mud wall, and Blackstone taking up the
running won comfortably from Badminton who had come on again, Mr.-
Emerson third, Donegal fourth, The Snob fifth, and Maudsi.xth. It was

278

gratifyin}4 to see such a consistent paperchaser as Mr. Acworth to the
front, the more so as he has just got over the effect of a bad spill in a
former chase. The Cup Chase will very soon be on now and on paper
it looks any odds on Badminton who has been going so well in these
chases this season. At the same time the chances of horses like
Shamrock and Diamond cannot but add a great deal more interest to
the issue, wliile Red Rover, Blackstone, and Donegal will not be far
behind. Mrs. Murray has a speedy and clever fencer in Maud, and if
she starts, will have a very good chance indeed. Altogether it looks a
pretty open rare, and in any case the starters should not be less than a
dozen. The " Average Cup" will go to Badminton bar accidents, as
there are only two more chases before the Cup Day.

The Calcutta Mounted Rifles Chase for two Cups — one for light
weights walking list. 7lbs. or under and the other for all who walk over
that weight — comes off on Wednesday, and should prove an interesting
and amusing race. The Cup presented by Mr. Ezra is to be given to
whoever comes in first, whether a light or heavy weight, and an equally
valuable Cup will go to the first in the light or heavy weights as the case
may be, that is, if a light weight comes in first, he receives Mr. Ezra's
Cup and the other Cup will go to the first heavy weight in, and vice
versa. The light weights will wear blue sashes to distinguish them from
the heavy weights, who are to wear red ones.

Saturday morning being cool and crisp for this season a large num-
ber of people found their way to the starting point for the twelfth chase
of the season. As the Cup Day draws near, the interest seems to
increase, and the running of Blackstone, Diamond, and Shamrock lately
points to a very open race for the Cup ; it is to be hoped none of the
horses will go wrong in the short interval that has to run before this
sporting event is decided.

The course on Saturday was, wi th some judicious alterations, a
familiar one to many old paperchasers. It ran from the Jodhpore
Station across the Gurriah Hat Road, keeping parallel with the road
through some in-and-out winding up to the Old Jump with the ditch in
front alongside the road close to the siixth milestone, from which point it
turned to the right out by the Tollygunge Gardens, returning over the
" Bund" country and crossing a bit of high land by the tank, finished on
the right hand side of the road, a little past Jodhpore Thannah.

The hares of the day were Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Tougall "
on Jack, who started the usual ten minutes in advance of the field, who
were taken in hand by Ballygunge Jim and despatched with his usual
punctuality. The following comprise the majority of the field :—

Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs. Hamilton on a chestnut, Mr.
Emerson on Duchess, Captain Burn on Nelly, Lord William Beresford

279

on Diamond, Herr Gauhe on Fatzke, Mr. T. Anderson on Great Scot,
Mr. J, Anderson on Bedouin, Major Hunt on a pony, Mr. Butler on
Badminton, Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Mr. Arthur on Charlie, Mr. Ed-
wards on Job Trotter, Mr. Kidston on Gascard, Mr. Rivers on Magpie,
Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Millett on a grey, Mr. Verschoyle on
The Snob, Mr. Campbell on Partition, Mr. St. Leger on Duchess, Mr.
Cartwright on Hurricane, Mr. Dangerfield on Rambler, and a few more.

At the call of time Badminton, Blackstone, and Great Scot went to
the front, followed by Diamond, Fatzke, and Partition over the first
hurdle, and away they rattled at a merry pace across the road into the
jungle beyond. Appearing again by the road, the leaders showed little
change. At the next village, however, Badminton and Diamond went
a little off the paper, but found it again round the corner. Blackstone,
Magpie, and Great Scot, however, put back, and thereby lost ground,
although coming down the " Bund " country they were close up again.
A little confusion took place here, some natives having deliberately
scraped up the paper and carefully laid it up to a bank leading to a big
wide ditch where they evidently expected some fun, but they were
doomed to be disappointed for no one came to grief, and although
there was nothing to show the scent. Diamond's rider spotted a hurdle
ahead and was on the right track again, followed by the rest of
the field. After negotiating the last hurdle Badminton made an effort
to overhaul Diamond, but could only get within a length of him. Lord
William scoring first honours by that distance, Blackstone some distance
off third, with Magpie fourth. The Snob fifth, and Mr. Millett sixth.

Immediately after the chase was over, the hares, accompanied by
some of those who rode in the chase, went back to the point referred to,
but the delinquents had made tracks, and nothing could be done beyond
airing a little of the language of the country and intimating that no
backsheesh would be forthcoming for the week's damage. The latter
procedure may have a salutary effect on the gentle mind of the Bally-
gunge peasant, and we hope they may never play similar tricks again,
as it might lead to a serious accident.

With the exception of the Cup Chase yesterday morning sav/ the
last of these most popular meets. The season has been unusually
successful. The fields have been larger and accidents fewer ; indeed,
there have been no serious accidents to horses or riders, and the way
in which spectators found their way lo the varied starling places
advertised, shows that they enjoyed the sport. The Cup Day was
originally fixed for the 8th instant, but in deference to a wish expressed
by the Government House party, it has been postponed to Wednesday,
the 14th, so as to give Their Excellencies an opportunity of being
present.

28o

The course yesterday morning started from the little piece of open
ground by the Dakuriah outpost on the Gurriah Hat Road, wound
through the jungle by the Railway and came out into the open again
close to Jodhpore Thannah, then crossing the road circuited the big
tank and went straight across to the Sandy Lane, returned again, and
going through the old gates came back to the new railway crossing-
After passing through the brickfield opening, the course took in a small
piece of flat land on which a nice water jump had been prepared. It
finally ended up in the open by the Red Road in full view of the
gallery. The going was good throughout, and although the heat is
beginning to tell on the horses, there was nothing much to complain
of yesterday.

Among the starters were Mrs. Sanders on Footlights, Mrs.
Hamilton on a chestnut, Mrs. Blisset on Grane, Miss Howey on a bay,
Mrs. Murray on Maud, Lord William Beresford on Diamond, Mr.
Butler on Badminton, Captain Burn on a brown, Mr. Arthur on Charlie,
Mr. Barnes on Mustella, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr. Tom
Anderson on Great Scot, Mr. Dangerfield on Rambler, Mr. Euler on
Shamrock, Mr John Anderson on Bedouin, Mr. Cartwright on Hurri-
cane, Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, and a few others

Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Tougall" on Jack carried the paper
as usual, and Ballygunge Jim was to the fore at the start which was
effected with the usual promptitude, ten minutes after the hares had
gone. Badminton and Shamrock led alternately for the first portion
of the chase, with Diamond, Zil, and Great Scot close up. After
crossing the Sandy Lane into the jungle, some of the leaders shied off
at a corner, and Diamond took up the running for a little. They were
all together across the railway level crossing, and the water jump saw
them again in line. Diamond was first over, but was passed by Zil and
Badminton immediately thereafter, the pair racing hard to the last
hurdle which Badminton struck hard and rolled over, leaving Zil to
come in first with Diamond coming away strong, a length behind,
Great Scot third, Fatzke fourth, Maud fifth, and Rambler sixth.

The rider of Badminton, I am glad to hear, was not hurt, and will
be "all there" on the 14th.

CALCUTTA MOUNTED RIFLES.

Paperchase Cup.

This new and sporting event was decided at Jodhpore yesterday
morning over a course kindly prepared by Mr. George Walker. The
interest attached to the result appears to have been considerable, judging
rem the number of spectators who found their way out. The conditions

28 I

were that competitors were to ride bond fide chargers ridden at the Camp
of Exercise, Ballygunge. Two Cups were given — one for Lii^ht Weights
scaling i ist. /lbs. or under,. and the other for Heavy lVei<jhts scahng over
1 1st. /lbs. The original entries, when the day was fixed during the Camp,
numbered nearly 30, but yesterday morning the number dwindled down
to a dozen.

The course was an excellent one in every respect. It started from
the Jodhpore Thannah, and took in the two big jumps by the railwa)-,
then winding round by the Jodhpore Station crossed the Gurriah Hat
Road and went out over the " Bund " country towards the Tollygun^^e
Lane, returning through the new brickfields and finishing in the open
opposite the Old (iates on the Sandy Lane leading up from Jodhpore
Thannah.

Messrs. Walker and Anderson on Malta and Great Scot carried the
paper, and Mr. Macnair started the field comprising the following
twelve warriors, after the usual interval often minutes.

Lio/il WeioJits. — Quarter Master Sergeant Murray on Zil, Sergeant
Currie on Magpie, Lance Corporal Watkins on Contrariety, Trooper Orr
on Gill, Trooper Goward on Job Trotter, Trooper Clark on Somersault,
Trooper Kidston on Gascard.

Heavy Weii{/i/y.— Troop Sergeant Major Hodgson on Le Moke,
Sergeant McLeod on Jack, Corporal Blechynden on his brown charger,
Trooper Garland on the Laird, Trooper Pope on his dun charger.

Despatched to an even start. Job Trotter and Jack were in front over
the first hurdle, but the latter was pulled back, . and Zil, Magpie and
Contrariety came up. The leader took the big wall in good form, and
crossing the road to the "Bunds" there was little alteration. Job
Trotter led the most of the way, and finally landed the winner of the
Ezra Cup from Zil ; the heavy weights some distance behind, headed by
Jack who wins the other Cup. Corporal Blechynden came to grief o\er
one of the " Bund " jumps, and Troop Sergeant Major Hodgson stuck
for some time at the big wall, otherwise there were no casualties. It is
to be hoped the field will be much larger next year when we understand
the competition will be repeated.

1888-89.

Owing to the late heavy rainfall paperchasing this season has
commenced later than usual, and even now most of the country is heavy
going. A capital course had, however, been laid out for the first chase,
which was run off yesterday morning. The mud walls were not immense,
but some of the hurdles were considerably higher than those used in
previous seasons. Nearly all the horses fenced well, but some of them
came in very blown, a remark which also applies to several of the riders.

282

Judging from the large number of carriages and the crowds of eques-
trians to be seen out yesterday morning, the popularity of paperchasing
is evidently as great as ever. Lord W. Beresford drove down the
Government House coach with a large party.

The paper was well laid by Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Tougall "
on his new purchase Lola ; both animals fenced perfectly. As it is the
commencement of the season, we must be excused for missing the names
of several of the field, but there were so many new followers that it is
impossible to give an accurate list of the starters. We noticed, however,
Mr. Murray on Rocket, Mr. Gauhe on Fatzke, Mr. Garth on Dacca, Mr.
John Anderson on a brown, Mr. Tom Anderson on Great Scot, Mr.
Edwards on Remount. Mr. Clark on Somersault, Lord William on
Diamond, Mr. Dangerfield on Rambler, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone,
Mr. jPerman on Blazes, Mr. Butler on Little Samson, Mr. Prophit on
Badminton, Mr. Euler on Shamrock, and Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob,
and a host of others. The start took place on the right hand side of
the Gurriah Hat Road, just beyond the sixth milestone. The leading
lot for the first half of the journey were Messrs. Prophit, Gauhe,
Murray, Garth and Little Samson. After crossing the road the course
went through several gardens and a clump of trees. Messrs. Gauhe, Garth
and another soon afterwards missed a jump by which they obtained
a long lead and finish by themselves ; they were of course disqualified.
The remainder of the field now began to increase the pace which
proved fatal to Little Samson, who hit a mud wall hard and came
down much to the disadvantage of his rider's immaculate get-up.
Mr. Butler was knocked silly for a bit, but we are glad to say soon.
came round, and gallantly again rode his game little nag at the fatal
obstacle, and this time without mishap. As the field came in view of the
gallery, the result was seen to lie between Badminton and The Snob, and
the latter being the fresher won a yood race by a length, Rocket third,
Somersault fourth, Blackstone fifth, and Great Scot sixth.

Owing to the meet yesterday being considerably nearer town than
at the first chase a large number of people assembled to see the start
which took place at the Juggernauth Car. The morning was very cold,
but luckily without any fog.

The paper was carried by Mr. Walker on Malta, and " The Tougall "
on Lola. Among the field we were glad to see several ladies, Mrs.
Blissett on Granville, Mrs. C^atacre on Jewell, Mrs. Grey on a brown,
and Mrs. Murray on Peggy. The stronger sex were well represented
by Mr. Prophit on Badminton, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Goward
on Job Trotter, Lord William Beresford on Diamond, Captain Harbord
on Return, Mr. Barnard on Mavourneen, Mr. Edwards on a pony, Lord

283

Binning on a black, Mr. Tom Anderson on Great Scot, Mr, Lindsay on
bay, Mr. Murray on Rocket, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr.
Cartwright on Sweet Ureamland Faces, Mr, Clark on Somersault^
The Apostle on a chestnut. Major Hunt on a bay, Mr. Gregory on Zig
Zag, the Old Man on Blazes, Mr. Gauhe on Fatzke, etc., etc. The going
generally was good, but it was a bit " ponky " in parts. Owing to
the course going through several clumps of trees, many riders reached
the finish in a hatless condition.

At the first word being j^iven, Mr. Gregory and Dr. Edwards led out
up the lane, over a hurdle and through a field on the right hand side of the
road. After negotiating a mud wall, the field went across the road over
two mud walls and across the railway. The paper now lay along the
railway for a short distance, and afterwards over a nice bit of open
country with mud walls and hurdles judiciously placed ; when the Sandy
Lane was reached, Messrs. Gregory and Edwards overshot the paper and
lost their positions The Snob, Rocket and Fatzke now went on at a
strong" pace with a large portion of the field in close attendance. Skirt-
ing a tank, the course now lay over several jumps and then back along
the low ground and across the road to the last hurdle which was placed
close to the bamboo clump. The leaders were now all racing, but M r.
Verschoyle had a bit in hand, and although Rocket was making up a
lot of ground at the finish, he could never get near The Snob who won
easily, Fatzke finished third. Job Trotter fourth, Blackstone fifth.
Badminton sixth.

As the public may have forgotton that three Cups are being presented
this season, we yive the following particulars : —

1. Paperchase Cup for all weights.

2. Welter Cup, presented by Lord William Beresford. For horses
qualified for the Paperchase Cup, but whose owners must weigh list.
7lbs.

3. Average Cup, presented by Mr. G. W. Walker. For horses
ridden by owner who has the best average at the end of the season m
the first six places.

CotuiHiom. i. All horses mustj^e the unconditional property of

the riders.

2. In the event of there being twelve or more chases, horses to
qualify must have been ridden in at least six chases while the property
of the present owner. If there are less than twelve chases horses must
have been ridden in at least half the number.

3. No horse allowed to enter who has ever won a race of any
description of the value of Rs. 550 or upwards.

Owing to the finish being at the Red Road yesterday a large number
of people assembled to witness the third paperchase. The weather was

284

slightly warmer than at the second chase, but bright and clear. The
first half of the going was excellent, but the latter half was heavy in
parts, and many of the horses appeared very distressed before they
arrived at the winning flags.

The paper was well laid by Mr. Walker on Malta and "The Tougall"
on Lx)la, both horses fencing in their usual perfect style. We noticed
the following starters : — Mrs. Gatacre on Jewell, Mrs. Murray on Peg,
Mrs. Grey on a bay, Mrs. Hayes on a bay, Mr. Butler on Badminton,
Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, the Maharaja of Cooch Behar on a very
handsome chestnut. Dr. Clark on Somersault, Mr. V'^erschoyle on The
Snob, Mr. Gregory on Zig Zag, Mr. Murray on Rocket, Mr. Acworth
on Blackstone, Mr. Alston on the Major, Mr. Gauhe on Fatzke, the
Apostle on Gazelle, Mr. Barnard on Mavourneen, Mr. Durance
on Sweet Dreamland Faces, Major Hunt on a bay. Dr. Edwards
on a pony, Mr. Mitchell Innes on a bay, Mr. Sniktaw on Contrariety,
Mr. Garth on a bay, Mr. Boyd on Bob, Mr. Shaw on Marigold, Mr. Tom
Anderson on Great Scot, Mr. Barrow on a bay, Mr. Kingsley on Lady-
bird, Mr. Kidston on Gascard, Mr. Adye on a bay, Mr. John Anderson
on a bay, the Old Man on that perfect hunter Blazes, and several
strangers.

The start took place on the left hand side of the road beyond Jodh-
pore Thannah, Rocket, The Snob, and Dr. Edwards led out at a strong
pace, closely followed by Zig Zag, Gazelle and Fatzke. At the first mud
wall Dr. Edwards had a difference of opinion with his pony, but Fatzke,
coming up fast, knocked them both safely to the right side of the
obstacle. A lot of horses declined to take this mud wall at the first
trial, and the field was all over the shop. When they settled down to
work again. Rocket, Fatzke, Zig Zag and The Major were leading. The
next mud wall proved too much for Zig Zag, who deposited his rider
on the cold ground in a somewhat abrupt manner. Jewell shortly
afterwards put his foot into a hole and turned a complete somersault,
Mrs. Gatacre luckily escaping unhurt. Nothing daunted by her severe
fall, she pluckily remounted and finished the chase. After crossing^ the
road, the paper led on to the Sandy Lane thiough the Old Gates and a
bit of jungle across the railway and on to the finish at the Red Road,
the last two jumps being a ditch, a hedge and a hurdle. As the leaders
came in view, it was seen that Rocket, Fatzke and The Major had ob-
tained a long lead, and they finished in the order named. After a
considerable interval Blackstone, Gazelle and The Snob appeared and
obtained the next three places. Mrs. Murray and Mrs. Cirey finished
close up to the placed horses.

In spite of the many festive meetings that have been taking place
in Calcutta during the last few days, a large number of people assembled

285

to witness the start for the paperchase yesterday morning. The start
unfortunately was the only part of the chase that was generally wit-
nessed, as the finish was in an obscure place which most of the gallery
were unable to find. The going was excellent, and the jumps uere
placed very well and not of a trappy order.

The paper was carefully laid by Mr. Walker on Malta and " The
Tougall '^ on Lola. The mare jumped slovenly, and " The Tougall '' had
not such a pleasant ride as usual. Every one was glad to see the Mem
Saheb once more among the field and riding better than ever. She
was well mounted on that good hunter Shamrock. We also noticed
Mrs. Gatacre and Mrs. Hayes among the followers. The sterner sex
were strongly represented by Mr. Barnes on Mustella, Mr. Turner
on a bay, Mr. Dacca on Dash, Mr. Garth on Nelly, Mr. Acworth on
Elackstone, Dr. Clark on Somersault, Mr. Wills on a pony, Mr.
Titwillow on Solicitor, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, Captain Harbord
on a pony, Mr. Barnard on Mavourneen, Mr. Mitchell Innes on Nelly,
Dr. Edwards on a bay, Mr. Shaw on Marigold, The Apostle on Gazelle,
Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Pat on Kangaroo, Mr. Lawrence
on a bay, Mr. Arthur on Rambler, Mr. Dangerfield on a new one,
Mr. Nicholls on a bay, and Major Hunt on a black.

The start took place at the Jodhpore Station. At the word " go" Mr.
Mitchell Innes went out at a spanking pace and led over the first jump,
but finding he had taken precedence of the Mem Saheb, he blushingly
assumed a more backward position. Fatzke, Diamond and Shamrock
headed the field over the next few jumps at a fair pace. The third wall
proved fatal to Captain Harbord's pony, who hit it hard, and falling
heavily broke his neck, his rider escaping with a few bruises. The
fourth wall brought Mr. Nicholls to grief. His horse tried to run
through it and turned a complete somersault, rolled over his rider, who
was badly shaken. After a couple of jumps the course was laid across
the Monsoon Road, and then through a piece of open country and back
through the lanes towards Ballygunge Station where the last hurdle was
placed. About a mile from the finish the leaders overshot the paper,
lettmg in Nell and Blackstone, who maintained the lead until the
winning flags appeared where they were passed by Fatzke who, capitally
ridden, secured an easy win. Blackstone second, Nell third, Diamond
fourth, Dash fifth. Shamrock sixth. The riding in several parts of the
chase was very wild, and there were many narrow escapes owing to
several riders persistently crossing each other instead of ridmg their
own line.

The weather yesterday morning being bright and clear, a large
number of spectators assembled to witness the fifth chase. The start
took place from the lane beyond the Jodhpore Station. The course lay

286

over a hurdle and round to the right where another hurdle and mud wall
were placed in close proximity. Going on towards the Salt Lakes,
several ditches which the tide had filled had to be negotiated. The
paper afterwards led back to the Monsoon Road over several mud walls,
a water jump and the screw pine jumps. Turning sharp to the left, the
finish was seen to be situated close to the Jodhpore Thannah. The
going throughout was all that could be desired. The fences were higher
than we have seen them this season, but horses are now getting fit, and
hardly a horse touched any of the jumps.

The paper was laid by Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Tougall " on
Lola. Unlike last week the latter fenced beautifully, and her owner still
exhilarated by Christmas cheer looked at peace with the whole world.

Among the starters we noticed the Mem Saheb on Shamrock, Mrs.
Murray on Peg, Mrs. Walker on Banshee, Captain Harbord on a bay,
Or. Edwards on Zig Zag, Mr. Coward on Job Trotter, Mr. Murray on
Rocket, Mr. Butler on Mosel, Mr. Alston on Blazes, Mr. Verschoyle on
The Snob, Mr. Barnard on Mavourneen, Mr. Turner on a bay, Mr. Adye
on Her Ladyship, Colonel Gatacre on a bay. The Apostle on Gazelle,
Mr. Arthur on Rambler, Mr. Dangerfield on a bay, Mr. Anderson on
Great Scot, Dr. Clark on Somersault, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr.
Gauhe on Fatzke, Mr. Titwillow on iilue Bag, Mr. Othello on Garth,
Mr. Mitchell Innes on a bay, Mr. Durance on Sweet Dreamland Faces.

At the call of time Fatzke and Rocket showed the way over the first
few jumps followed by Zig Zag, Blazes, Shamrock and Mosel. At the
second mud wall the sporting Alipore Doctor bit the dust, but invigor-
ated by the taste of the soil, and notwithstanding the loss of a stirrup,
he managed to get the course in safety. As the leaders headed back
towards the railway. Blazes made up a lot of ground, and soon after-
wards went to the head of affairs. Fatzke and Mosel both tried vainly
to catch the leader, who, capitally handled by Mr. Alston, won fairly
easily, Fatzke second, Mosel third, Shamrock fourth, Blackstone fifth.
Rocket sixth.

A number of visitors having left Calcutta after the Christmas
festivities only a small gallery assembled to witness the chase yesterday.
The morning was cold, but unfortunately a heavy mist hung close to the
ground and rendered the jumps almost invisible until the horses were
close upon them, it also made the finding of the paper a very difficult
task. The going was excellent, and the jumps were very carefully
placed and built up to a very nice height.

The paper was laid with rather a sparing hand by Mr. Walker on
Malta and " The Tougall " on Lola. The field was very numerous, and
most of the horses looked in good condition. Among those present we
noticed : — The Mem Saheb on Shamrock, Mrs. Murray on Peg,

287

Mr. Tom Anderson on Great Scot, Mr. Alston on Blazes, Mr. Acworth
on Blackstone, Dr. Edwards on a black, Mr. Millett on Blackberry
Mr. Shaw on Marigold, Mr. Beresford on the King, Mr. Goward on Job
Trotter, Mr. Uangerfield on Rambler, Mr. Arthur on a bay, The Apostle
on Gazelle, Major Hunt on The Colonel, Mr. Eck on a black
Mr. Trilitan on Contrariety, Captain Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Titwillow
on Solicitor, Mr. Adye on the Old Girl, Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr. Murray
on Rocket, Mr. Westmacott on a bay, Mr. Prophit on Badminton,
Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr. Milton on a chestnut, Great Scot on a
chestnut, Mr. Kidston on Scotswood, and Mr. Turner on Britomarte.

At the call of time Shamrock, Mr. Eck, and the King led out at a
strong pace over the first hurdle. At the next jump, a mud wall,
the fun commenced ; the King refused and his rider was left caressing
him with a stick and calling him endearing names. Great Scot's na^j
also refused, and on his rider trying to force him over, he resented the
indignity by bucking him straight up into the air where his legs sepa-
rated, and he alighted on the ground in the shape of a compass. After
negotiating the two big walls (at the second of which Blackstone refused
several times ; his rider's judicial seat, however, was not disturbed) the
leaders overshot the paper and the running was taken up by Mr. Henry,
Mrs. Murray, and Mr. Arthur. After crossing the Station Road the
paper led back to the Gurriah Hat Road. A mud wall hereabouts sent
Titwillow with a twitter to the grass, an example which was shortly
afterwards followed by Mr. Henry, much to the damage of a new pair
of boots. Skirting the Tollygunge gardens the course lay through a bit
of jungle, the leaders being Rocket, I^adminton, and Blackstone. On
emerging into the open the finish was seen to be situated close to the
Jodhpore Station Road. The leaders were now all close together, and
after a ding-dong finish Mr. Murray on Rocket secured premier honours
by a neck from Mr. Prophit on Badminton, closely followed by
Mr. Turner on Britomarte, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mrs. Murray
on Peg, and Mr. Goward on Job Trotter.

As Rocket seems to go better every week, he will most likely have
most supporters for the Cup. Blazes, Badminton, and The Snob are also
much fancied. For the Average Cup Blackstone has a very good
chance, as he always runs a game honest horse, and is placed almost
every week.

Owing no doubt to the number of entertainments which are taking
place this week the attendance at the paperchase yesterday morning
was considerably below the average The number of starters was also
meagre, which is not to be wondered at, considering that almost every
stable in Calcutta is suffering from the prevailing cough and influenza
epidemic. The weather was unpleasantly warm and a rather heavy

288

mist proved depressing. The going throughout was excellent, and the
jumps were quite as big as in last week's chase. The paper was laid by
"The Tougall" on Hadjee and Mr. Walker on Malta. Among the field
we noticed : — The Mem Saheb on a chestnut, Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mr.
Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Millet on
Nina, Mr. Go ward on Job Trotter, Mr. Eck on a black, Mr. Alston on
Blazes, Mr. Turner on Britomarte, Mr. Philips on a pony, Mr. Watkins
on Contrariety, Mr. Henry on a bay, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Captain
Rawlinson on a bay, Mr. Murray on Rocket, Mr. Shaw on Marigold,
Major Hunt on a black, Mr. Campbell on Norseman, and Mr. Titwillow
on Solicitor.

The start took place at the bamboo clump near the Jodhpore Station
round to the right over a hurdle, and a double across the Gurriah Hat
Road on to the " Bund" country, where a miscellaneous collection of
jumps had been placed. The leading lot consisted of Blackstone,
Badminton, Rocket, Blazes, and Peg. After twice crossing the Tolly-
gunge Lane the paper led on to the brickfields where Britomarte, Job
Trotter and Nina joined the leaders. The course now lay through a bit
of jungle back to the old gates and finished close to the road over two
hurdles. Blazes obtained the lead near the brickfields, and appeared
first through the Old Gates where he was challenged by Rocket, who
after a rattling finish secured first honours, Britomarte third, Badminton
fourth, Blackstone fifth, Job Trotter sixth, Niria seventh, Peg eighth.

Owing to the very heavy fog which prevailed yesterday morning at
Ballygunge it appeared doubtful whether the chase would come off or
not. As we stood shivering at the start, it was a case of

" To whit ! To whoo ! How do you do ?
*' The mist and the fog have wet me through 1
" I've caught a cold on my chest, hav'n't you ?
" But all the same To Whit 1 To whoo."

About 7-30 A.M., however, a bit of blue sky appeared, and- things
began to look more cheerful, and by the time the start took place a fair
gallery had assembled, who were rewarded by a capital view of several
of the jumps at the commencement as well as at the finish of the chase.
The paper was capitally laid by "The Tougall" on Lola, and Mr. Walker
on Squire. The latter horse evidently feels that he is getting into the
" sere and yellow leaf" as he jumped very unkindly on several occasions.

The number of the field was hardly up to the average. We noticed,
however, the Mem Saheb on a raw chestnut, Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mrs.
Eck on a black, Mrs. Gatacre on a brown, Mr. Turner on Britomarte,
Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Major Hunt on a black, Mr. Beresford on
Badminton, Captain Huddart on a brown, Mr. Brazier Creagh on

289

Diamond, Colonel Ciatacre on a bay, The Apostle on Gazelle, Mr. Murray
on Rocket, Mr. Alston on Blazes, Captain Sherston on a pony, Mr.
Acvvorth on Blackstone, Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Titwillow oiv
Port Trust, Mr. Sheriff on E.Kile, Colonel Pole Carew on the Star, Mr.
Apjohn on a bay, Mr. Kidston on Gascard, Mr. Boyd on Bob, and Mr.
Campbell on Tim,

After twelve minutes "law' time was called and Diamond, Badmin-
ton, Britomarte and Blackstone led out over a hurdle across the Gurriab
Hat Road and over a mud wall on to the " Bund " country, where a for-
midable number of mud walls had been placed close together. Diamond
was still leading, f()llowed by Job Trotter, Britomarte, Badminton and
Blacktone with Rocket and Peg lying handy. Turning sharp over to
the right. Diamond overshot the paper, arid Badminton went on with the
lead, Britomarte and Bia'ckstone being close behind. After a bit of
jungle Mr. Murray brought up Rocket, and at once went to the head of
affairs At the next fence, however, he jumped the wrong side of the
flag, and had to go back, which quite extinguished his chance Black-
stone, Britomarte and Badminton had now obtained a good lead ; the
two former, however, missed a hurdle which had been placard round a
corner. Mr. Beresford only discovered it in time to pull his horse
broadside on to it in which position the animal declined to jump, and
his rider all but bit the dust ; he, however, clung on with one hand to
the animal's neck, and hung there for some time, -a thing of beauty —
but hardly of joy from the agonized expression of his features. After
some clown-like antics he managed to regain the saddle amidst the
cheers of a large number of his Aryan brethren. The running in the
meantime had been taken up by Peg and Job Trotter who raced over
the two remaining jumps, and on to the red flags. After a most artistic
finish Mrs. Murray managed to catch the judge's eye by a short neck
from Mr. Goward on Job Trotcer, Diamond third, Blackstone fourth,
Britomarte fifth, and the Star sixth. The Average Cup is now almost a
certainty for Blackstone who has been placed in every chase this season.
Mrs. Gatacre got a fall towards the middle of the chase, and was
dragged for some distance. Slie, however, we are glad to say, escaped
with a shaking. At the last hurdle Exile and his rider both stood on^
their heads, but finding the position rather uncomfortable, they finally
reclined side by side on the dewy turf.

Yesterday morning being bright and clear a large number of people
assembled at Ballygunge to witness the paperchase. The start and
finish were situated in close proximity, and the gallery were enabled
without much exertion to witness botii the first few and the final jumps.
Owing to the late rain the going was decidedly heavy, but great care
had been taken to build the jumps on sound ground. The horses all
B, CPR 19

290

•round were fencing in excellent form, and we did not hear of a single
-casualty.

The paper was carefully laid by " The Tougall " on Lola and Mr.
Walker on Squire.

Among the field we noticed Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mr. Eck on a

iblack; Mr. Prophit on Badminton, Mr. Maxwell on Q. O., Mr. Brazier

Creagh on Lancer, Lord William Beresford on Diamond, Mr. Barnard

•on Mavourneen, Mr. Dickson on Baccarat. Major Hunt on Ginger, Mr.

Alston on Beacon (late Blazes), Mr. Murray on Rocket, Mr. Boyd on

sBob, Mr. Beresford on Plantation, Colonel Pole Carew on The Star,

Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Campbell on Norseman, Mr.

Euler on Shamrock, Mr. Milton on Fred, Mr. Wigmore on a bay mare,

Mr. Adye on the Ancient Dame, Mr. Coward on Job Trotter, Mr.

Verschoyle on The Snob, Mr. Turner on Britomarie, Mr. Shaw on

Marigold, Mr. Edwards on a black. The Apostle on Gazelle, Mr.

Phillips on a country-bred, Mr. Titwillow on Port Trust, Mr*

Cartwright on Hurricane, etc., etc. The start took place at the j^akuriah

Thannah ; the paper went over two hurdleS; alon^ the railway round to

the right over two mud walls and through a lane with a jump in the

middle of it, and on to the open ground near the Jodhpore Thannah.

The leading lot consisted of Beacon, Rocket, Blackstone and Badminton

with Diamond and The Star lying handy. The Giuriah Hat Road was

-crossed near the bamboo clump where Rocket assumed the lead and led

-over the water jump with Beacon and Badminton in close attendance.

After going through a longish bit of jungle the paper led over the new

railway crossing, alongside the line for a bit, and on in the direction of

the Red Road close to which the red flags were placed. Near the

■railway crossing Rocket, who was going very easily, overshot the paper

which let up Badminton, whose owner's eagle eye quickly discovered the

4ost trial, and benefiting by this chance Mr. Prophit gave his old nag his

'head, and rattling over the last two fences won fairly easily. Mr. Murray

second on Rocket, Mr. Alston third on Beacon, Mr. Acworth fourth

on Blackstone, Mr. Euler fifth on Shamrock, Colonel Pole Cauew sixth

•on The Star

Owing to the very heavy fog which prevailed yesterday morning
there was a considerable doubt as to whether the chase would be run off.
About 7-41; A.M., however, the sun made his appearance, and rapidly
<lrove away the fog and his depressing influences. The gallery and
field were both very small, owing, no doubt, to many people reserving
themselves for the Fancy Ball in the evening. The going throughout
was capital, and a nice line of country had been selected. The mud
walls were built much as usual, but several of the hurdles had been
placed on bunds which made them rather formidable obstacles.

291

The paper was laid by Mr. Walker on Malta and " The Tougall " on
Norseman ; the latter animal did not jump very kmdly, and his rider
broke a stirrup at the second jump, but managed to get round the course
without this very necessary article. His mount ran through the last
wall and tumbled on his head, but fortunately recovered himself without
^mseaiing his rider. Among the field we noticed Mrs. Murray on Peg,
Mrs. Othello on Bengy, Mrs. Eck on a black, Mr. Brazier Creagh on
Diamond, Mr. Maxwell on a brown, Mr. Prophit on Badminton,
Mr. Butler on Little Samson, Mr. Dickson on Baccarat, Mr. Turner on
Britomarte, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Milton on a grey,
Mr. Daniell on Nell, Mr. Versclioyle on The Snob, Mr. Wigmore on a bay,
Mr. Tom Anderson on Great Scot, Mr. Walker on Othello, Mr. Apcar
on two ponies, Mr. John Anderson on The Smner, Mr. Murray on a
chestnut, Mr. Sheriff on a bay, Mr. West on a pony, Mr. Barnard on
Mavourneen, Mr. Dangerfield on a black, Mr. Shaw on Marigold, and
a lot of youths on small tats.

The start took place on the right hand side of the Gurriah Hat Road
just beyond the Jodhpore Thannah. At the call of ''lime" Diamond,
Blackstone, Badminton, Britomarte, and Nell led over the first hurdle
round to the left over a mud wall with a drop and through a piece of jungle
on the "Bund" country where Mrs. Eck and Job Trotter joined the
leaders Diamond led at a strong pace over the "Bund" country and
round to the left by the ToUygunge Gardens back to the Gurriah Hat
Road, soon after passing which he began to tire and was passed by
Britomarte and Badminton who raced home over the two big jumps
by the station and over a mud wall and hurdle ; a short distance from
home Britomarte slightly oversiiot the paper which allowed Badminton
to obtain a two-lengths lead, which advantage he maintained to the
finish. Mr. Brazier Creagh on Diamond was third, Mr Goward on Job
Trotter fourth, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone fifth, Mr. Shaw on Marigold
sixth, Mr. Eck seventh. Half way through the chase Mr. Wigmore
came to grief, an example shortly after followed by Mr. West's mount
who shot his rider with considerable force on the ground. Mr. West's
business instincts were too strong to be suppressed by a trifle like this,
and he gravely proceeded to sample the soil, finally pronouncing it fairly
twisted, choky broken dust with a strong flavour ; value uncertain on
account of the fog. We are sorry to hear that in the last chase Rocket
overreached himself, but it is hoped that he will get round in time for
the Cup. The rest, however, is bound to prove prejudicial to his chance.

A bright clear morning yesterdny was a welcome change after the
very foggy weather which we have lately been experiencing, and those

292

people who were energetic enough to travel to Jodhpore Station were
amply rewarded by a capital view ot the commencement and finish of
the chase- The gallery was very small, and the field not up to the
-average in point of number. Several of the usu;il followers were detained
at the Volunteer Camp, drill being considered by their commanding
officer more important than paperchasing. The start took place on the
left hand side of the railway beyond Jodhpore Thannah. The going
throughout was excellent, and the pace for the latter part of the journey
was very fast. The paper was carried by Mr. Walker on Malta, and
Mr. Alston on Hadjee, both animals jumping very cleanly. Among the
field we noticed Mrs. Murray on Maud, Mr. Eck on a brown, Major
Hunt on Ginger, Mr. Maxwell on a brown, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob^
Mr. Adye on Her Ladyship, Mr. Wigmore on a bay, Mr. Dickson on
Baccarat, Mr. Rice on Crusader, Mr. Prophit on Badminton, Lord
William Beresford on Diamond, Mr. Goward on Job Trotter, Mr. Ac-
worth on Blackstone, Mr Shaw on Mangold, Mr. Daniell on a bay,.
Mr. Mitchell Innes on Nell, Captain Harbord on Lancer, Mr. Euler
on Shamrock, Mr. Eck on a bay, etc , etc At the call of time
Mr. Maxwell led out at a strong pace, followed by Badminton, Job Trotter
and Crusader, with the rest of the field close behind. The second jump
was rather a formidable mud wall placed in rather a bad position as
regards the light. Many horses jumped it very slovenly, Blackstone
hit it hard, but recovered himself cleverly. Marigold and Gmger both
refused at the first attempt, but were finally persuaded or coaxed over it.
The course now lay right through the open country in the direction of
the Salt Lakes. Mrs. Eck went to the front and made the running at a
strong pace, Badminton, Crusader and Blackstone lying handy. The
paper now led round to the left, gradually working back in the direction
of the Jodhpore Thannah. About a mile from the finish a rather trappy
jump brought Diamond to grief The horse blundered badly and then
rolled over. His rider, not being desirous of joining the Infantry, stuck
desperately to his reins, and was soon in the saddle again. Mrs.
Murray had in the meantime obtained the lead, but her mare -tired to-
wards the end and two jumps from home was passed by Badminton and
Crusader who raced in together, the former winning by a length,
Mrs. Murray was third on Maud, Mr. Goward fourth on Job Trotter,
Mr. Maxwell fifth, and Mr. Acworth sixth on Blackstone.

In spite of the recent heavy rains it was found possible to run off
the paperchase yesterday morning. The gallery was quite up to the
average, but the field was very meagrely represented. Those who
started, however, had a very pleasant ride. The going thoughout was
good, and the jumps were nearly all well placed in the open country ;

293

the horses with hardly an exception fenced in excellent style The
paper was laid by the Old Man on Hedouin and Mr. Alston on Beacon.
Among the field we noticed Mrs. Murray on Peg, Mrs. Eck on a brown,
Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Murray on Maud, Mr. Maxwell on
a brown, Mr. Euler on Shamrock, Mr. Cartwright on Sweet Dream-
land Faces, Mr. Campbell on Norseman, Lord William Bercsford on
Diamond. Major Hunt on Ginger, Mr. Butler on Badminton, Mr.
Turner on Britomarte, Mr. Verschoyle on The Snob, etc., etc.

The start took place about half a mile beyond the Ballygunge
Station on the left hand side of the road over a hurdle and a mud wall.
The paper then led on in the direction of the Salt Lakes over a very
nice line of open country, and gradually worked back towards the Rifle
Range, the finish being situated close to the railway, the last three jumps
consisting of a mud wall, a large ditch and a hurdle. The placed
horses all kept close together for nearly the whole journey, Badminton
and Diamond, however, had the pace of the others when it came to
racing, and the former, well ridden by Mr. Butler, managed to secure
premier honours by half a length from Lord William, Mr. Campbell
third on Norseman, Mr. Maxwell fourth, Mr, Euler fifth on Shamrock,
and Mr. Acworth sixth on Blackstone. As it is doubtful whether
Rocket or Badminton will start for the Cup, it looks as if Diamond will
have an easy task in repeating last year's success ; his most troublesome
opponents will be most likely Beacon (late Blazes) and Peg.

The Paperchase yesterday morning was one of the best of the season,
the course was shorter than usual and the pace was fast throughout. We
were glad to see that Rocket has recovered from his overreach, and his
owner intends to start him for the Cup for which he will have an excel-
lent chance ; the other most favoured candidates are Diamond, Beacon,
Peg, and Shamrock.

The start yesterday took place on the right hand side of the Sandy
Lane, the paper being carried by Messrs. Walker on Squire and Othello.
The former nag would not have the water jump at any price, and finally
had to be taken round it. Among the field we noticed Mrs Murray on Peg,
Mrs. Caut ley on Jack, Mrs. Eck on a brown, Mr. Euler on Shamrock,
Major Hunt on a bay, Mr. Butler on Mosel, Mr. Maxwell on a chestnut,
Mr. Gauhe on Fatzke, Mr. Rice on a black, The Apostle on Gazelle, Mr.
Turner on Britomarte, Mr. Acworth on Blackstone, Mr. Mitchell
Innes on Nell, Mr. Daniell on Duchess, Mrs. Dickson on Baccarat, Lord
William Beresford on Diamond, Mr. Perman on a young 'Un, Mr. Petne
on a chestnut, Mr. Govvard on Job Trotter, and Mr. Verschoyle on The
Snob.

After the usual amount of fun the field were let go, Shamrock,
Gazelle and Fatzke making the running at a strong pace over a hurdle

294

and the water jump, where most of the gallery had assembled. The
first hurdle proved fatal to Mr. Rice wlio came to the ground in rather
a hasty manner. The horses all jumped the water jump well.
Fatzke's rider nearly cut a voluntary, but managed to save himself
after a desperate struggle. A sportsman on a pony caused much
amusement by riding his mount from head to tail in the most approved
circus fashion, but escaped a fall in the most miraculous way. After
crossing the " Bund " country the paper led towards the Tollygunge
Lane and on by the Tollygunge Gardens back to the well-known finish
on the west side of the Gurriah Hat Road opposite the green land near
the Jodhpore Station, After the field came in view, it was seen that
about eight of the riders were all in a bunch. Shamrock, however,
obtained a slight lead when near home, an advantage which he main-
tained to the finish. Mr. Murray just contrived to beat Britomarte for
second honours ; the next three were all close together, but the judges
placed Mr. Gauhe fourth on Fatzke, Mr. Goward fifth on Job Trotter,
Mr. Butler sixth on Mosel. Lord William arrived late in a desperate
hurry, but could never manage to catchup the leaders. Two of the
spectators taking a short cut to see the finish suddenly disappeared
into a pit, the falling was soft !

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APPENDIX C

To admit of the identification of the riders appearing in C. C. M.'s
records under a system of nomenclature which has since almost
disappeared, the following list has been drawn up and gives, as far as it
has been possible to trace them, the individuality of the numerous
sportsmen to whom reference is made : —
Mr. Adjutant ...

Mr. Agra

Mr. Alipore

Mr. All there ...

Lord Alwyn

The Apostle ...

Mr. Arthur

Mr. P. Ask

Mr. G. Aspirant

Ballyguuge Jim

The Bank Representative

Mr. Banker

Mr. Baron (Borron)

Mr. Barnagore...

Mr. Bintang ...

Mr. Blue Bag ...

Mr. Bombay ...

Mr. Boojum

The Bounding Jockey
Brasspot Junior Sahib
The Bummer ...
Calcutta's Own
Mr. Campobello
The Captain
Captain Sapper
Mr. Chasma
Mr. Choter

... Capt. Innes Hopkins.
... Mr. G. F. Mayne.
... Mr. F. Crooke.

Mr. W. L. Al.ston.
... Lord Alwyn Compton.
... Mr. E. C. Apostolides.
... Mr. A. S. Dunne.
... Mr. A. L. Paske.
... .Mr. G. W. Hope.
... Mr. J. Petrie.
... Mr. S. Slater.
... Mr. R. Murray.
... Mr. D. B. Myers.
... Mr. Alexander.
... Mr. R. Murray.
... Mr. H. T. Hyde.
... Mr. A. S. Russell.
._ Mr. H. J. C. Turner
and later Mr. H.
D. Carlwright.
... Mr. George Walker.
... Mr. W. M, Beresford.
... Mr. C. D. Petersen.
... Mr. W. M. Beresford.
... Mr. Alex. Campbell.
... Capt. Egan.
... Capt. Barton.
.. Mr. T. S. Anderson.
... Mr. E. L. Hamilton.

317

Mr. Chota Pedestrian
Mr. Cochin China
The Count ... .
Mr. Dacca
Mr. d'Arcy
Mr. Uelphin ...
Mr. P. D'Estrian
The Doctor
1 doctor Durrum Toller
Doctor Durrum Toller J
Mr. Donald
Mr. Drydendale
Duggie
Mr. Durrud
Mr. Dusra
Mr. Dynamite .
Mr Edward ...
Fred. Archer ...
Mr. Gateacre ...
Mr. (jeorge
Miss Gipsy
The Greek
Mr. Grenoul
Mr. Harold
Mr. Haitland Meriot
Mr. Hatband Meriot
Mr. Hen
Indigo Billy ...
Mr. Jack Spraggon
Mr. J. E. K. B.
Jaggerit

Mr. Jasper Polly
Mr. Jonsin Clair
The Jumping Brothers

Mr Kilhim and Oiler
Mr. Killus
Mr. Kinoul
Mr. Latham .
Mr. Lauderdale
Mr. Lawrence ...
Mr. Lawrie }
Mr. Lowrie )
The Lawyer .
Mr. Leatherhead
Our Leading lady

unior

Mr l.aniond Walker
Mr. Petrocochino.
Count R, de Naxela.
Mr. George Garth.
Mr. d'Arcy Thuillier.

Mr CD Petersen.
Mr. (ieorge Walker.

Dr. Morgan.

Dr. Morgan.

Dr. Woolcott.

Mr. Donald Drysdale

Mr. Donald Drysdaie.

Mr A. S. Douglas.

Mr. Payne.

Mr. Lamond Walker.

Mr. \V. Thomson.

Mr. Traill.

Mr D. A.Dickson.

Mr. J. H. Eli wards.
, Mr. George Thomas.

Mr. D. A. Dickson.

Mr E. C. Apostolides.

Mr. W. D. Kilburn.

Mr. Harold'Ellis.

Mr. W. Maitland-PIeriot.

Mr. W. MaitlandHeriol.

Mr. Henry Peter.

Mr. W McDonell.

Mr. George Cheetham.

Mr. J. E. K. Boyd.

Mr. H Millett
. Mr. James Sinclair.

Mr. John vSinclair.

Messrs L. B. and E.
L. Hamilton.
. Mr. Killian Euler.

Mr. W. D. Kilhurn.

Hon'ble F. Hay.

Mr. L. B. Hamilton.
. Mr. W. Maitland-Heriot.
. Mr. C. Lawrie Johnstone.

. Mr. W. L. Alston.

. Mr. N. S. Watkins.

Mr. H. Simpson.
. Mrs. Cook.

3>8

Mr. Leep

Lord William ...

Mr. Lowlander

Mr. Mac

The Major

Mr. Masher

Mr. Maxwell ...

The Mem Sahib

Mr. Mercantile ...

Mr. Mountflummery

Mr. Nagrom

Mr. Nastrelep

Necktie Billy ...

Mr. Nedraw

Mr. Neophyte ...

Mr. Newall

Mr. Nilloc

Mr. Nosnevets ...

Mr. Nosredneh

Mr. Nosredna ...

The Notlimah Brothers

Mr. N. W. P. ...
The Old Man ...
Mr. O'Malley ...
Mr. Pat
Mr. Patchwork
Mr. Pedestrian...
Mr. Phocuss ...
The Prophit
The Policewalla
Mr. Poolwallah
Mr Rivers
Mr. Roland
Mr. Sedgwick ...
Mr. Sholto
Mr. Sille
The Silent One .
Mr. Sniktaw ...
The Sporting Vet
Mr. Sunder
Mr. Titwillow ...
The Tougall
Wool Saheb
The Young'un ...

. Mr. Peel.

... Lord William Beresford.
Mr. C. Lawrie Johnstone.
Mr. J. F. Macnair.
Major Cook.
. Mr. A. L. Butler.
.. Mr. Orrell.
... Mrs. Cook.
.. Mr. R. Murray.
- Mr W. M. Beresford.

Mr. (Dr.) Morgan.
. Mr. C. D. Petersen.
... Mr. W. M. Beresford.
.- Mr. Warden.
... Mr. C. Lawrie

Johnstone.
... Mr. G. N. Nairn.
.^ Mr. E. W. Collin.
Mr. J. Stevenson,
... Mr. J. Henderson.
.. Mr. T. S. Anderson.
... Messrs. L. B. & E.

L. Hamilton.
... Mr. Peel.
... Mr. F. W Perman.
.. Mr. D. A, Dickson.
... Mr. Chamney.
. Mr. H, Simpson,
... Mr. George Walker.
... Mr. George Fox.
... Mr. J. M. G. Prophit.
... Mr. A. B. Barnard.
... Mr. J. O. Bridgeman.
... Mr. R. G. Currie.
.. Mr. Rowland Hudson.
... Mr. A. S. Russell.
... Mr. A. S. Douglas.
... Mr. Harold Ellis.
... Mr. E. Dangerfield.
... Mr. N. S. Watkins
... Dr. Morgan.
... Mr. S. Slater.
... Mr. A. S. Barrow.
... Mr. C C. McLeod.
... Mr. George Yule.
... Mr. D. R. Dickson.

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