Running Recollections and How to Train

CHAPTER VIII. PURITY OF AMATEURISM. I N 1895 my presence at athletic gatherings invariably proved a big draw, generally forthe reason that I was the only man who could give Bradley arace in a level 100 yards, but often because I could run any distance from100 yards to 440. Hence I was the recipient of many inducements to appear at the various meetings throughout the country. These transactions were generally negotiated through a third person. For instance, my presence might be desired at, let us say, "Muddletown." The "Muddletown " secretary would go to a friend of mine and perhaps remark :— "I believe you know Downer, don'tyou ?" "Slightly," would probably be remarked. " Do you think you could get him to run at our sports?" If my friend were at all acquainted with the secretary, iTe would take himaside, and say : " Look here ; whatwill you give him A sum having been stated, myfriend would communicate with me, and the affairwould be settled to the satisfaction of all parties. Often, however, the secretary, or some other member of his committee, would be deputed towait upon me with a view to securing me for their sports. He would,, perhaps, be allowed to run to a certain sum, and if that did not satisfy my requirements, the deal would be off. This was a very simple way of doing business, andcommittees of sports-holding clubs would do well to take notice. I do not mind putting themup to a wrinkle or two now that I am out of the running. " Carte blanche " on the deputy'spart