The Modern Method of Training for Running, Walking, Rowing & Boxing

50 PUGILISM. ecvenpoundsweiglit or under. Good condition in the pugilist will be shown by the healthy state of the skin, whichwill be clear, with a ruddy tinge underneath, as well as soft,with the muscles underneath swelling and feeling firm to the touch at every movement of the limb or portion under manipulation. The eye will be clear and bright, and a look of confidence and case of mind characterize the expressionand looksof the athlete. As regards the picklefor the hands and face,the nostrums for the first are legion, and one as good as, another; but webelieve that nothing is better than the simplejuice of a lemonfor the latter, and whichwill befoundto answereveryintended purpose. The trainer ought to be chosen with regard to his conversational powers, as well as for his knowledge of what is requisite for the physicalhealth of his pupil, that he may amuse and instruct him to the fullest extent of his power. The trainer should informhim, if pos­ sible,of all the peculiaritiesof the antagonist, hismode of attack and methodof defence, the weak points of his temper, or any physical deficiency under which he might labour, as well as the manner in whichhe may havewon or lost any previous battle. And, as in many casesthe first or second tellingmay not have the effectof raising the curiosity of bis man, the patience of the trainer shouldnot giveway underthe repetition beforethe slow and obtuse curiosity is rousedto such an extent that the PUGILISM. 51 pugilist commences the interrogation in his turn, and becomes anxious in his inquiries for information, which will almost invariably be the case when he finds out the importance that the trainer's continued repetitions have investedthe apparent trifleswith.