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Illustrated gagazinc of gpoi*

EDITED BY

iE.NRY STURMEY & G. W. NAIR

M

LONDON: HARRY ETHERINGTON, 152, FLEET STREE COVENTRY: ilFFE & SON, 12, SMITHFORD STREET AND VI BIRMINGHAM: NUTT, 80, SMALLBROOK

OWNS

PATENT

ALL BEARINGS.

RONT WHEELS, BACK WHEELS, AND PEDALS OF B1GYGLES & THIOYGLES,

| Universally Adjustable, Dust or Dirt Proof, require but Slight Lubrication, and consequently are the most- Durable Bearings yet introduced.

.'.: ; principal Amateur and m by the use of these Bearings.

Front

Back Wli

Scanners*

M4tm.

Ǥw

Ball Feds

WILLIAM BOWN,

308, SUMMER LANE, BIRMINGHj

sole' proprietor and mak

Bowl's Patent ''JEOLTXS-' Ball Bearings are p be to fa

tne best as regards durab:'..

ILLUSTRATED

MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF SPORT.

EDITED BY

©♦ |p* igtairo $c $mvvf gttnvmztj.

VOLUME V.

MAY TO NOVEMBER, 1882

COVENTRY.

Ieiffe & £on, 12, £mithfobd Stbfet and Vicak Lanb.

LONDON:

Haeky Etheeington, 152, Fleet Stkeet.

1882.

[All Bights Reserved.]

ttPSB

NOTHER six months have passed, and the " Wheel World " completes its Fifth Volume, and enters upon its Sixth. The increased patronage which has been accorded us during the past few months we are thankful for, and take it as showing that our humble efforts to instruct, interest, and amuse our readers, have been successful. Our aim and efforts in the future will be to uphold the tone of the Magazine ; and improvement rather than retrogression will be the order of the day, with which promise we leave our readers in possession of Volume V., and subscribe ourselves

THE EDITORS.

^ocqpgix.^

A Bicycle Ride to Dunedin

A Club Room Conversation ('• Bab Yardley")

A Few Definitions

A Long Bicycle Ride in New Zealand

A Month's Tricycle Tour

A Nautical View of a Bike

A Run through Donegal

A Song o' Summer (-'Joey Saw- tell")

A Touring Reminiscence, or An Awkward Plight (D. M. M. Dawson)

A Wheelman's Dress

Alice, A Cycling Ballad ("Aout")

Amateur Racing Record, 74, 115, 203,

American Humourist on Bicy- cling, An

American on " The Ideal Uni- form," An

Amongst the Clubs, 25, 64, 113, 195,

An American Humourist on Bi- cycling

An American on " The Ileal Uniform

An August Tour

An Awkward Plight, or a Tour- ing Reminiscence (D. M. M. Dawson) .....

Bicycle Ride to Dunedin, A

Bicycle Ride in New Zealand, A Long

Bicycle, That . Bicycling in India

Bicycling in Tasmania

Birmingham to Liverpool in a Day

But" erworth's Choice, Mr.

By the Roadside ("Bab Yardley")

Christmas Number, Our

Cliffs, On the

Club Directory

Club Room Conversation, A.

Clubs, Amongst tbe, 25, 64,113, 195,

Cruise on Wheels in Normandy, Notes of a

Cutting the Record in the U.S.A.

Cycle Mania

Cvcliana

Cycling Celebrities: —

No. 8. Mr. R. P. Hampton-

Robertn No. 9. Mr. R. H. Leslie . .

214 191 15 160, 265

23

254 154, 256

23

214 177

79 237 105 172

210

89

52

273

133

6->

35

154,

256

27

77

107

107

PAGE.

No. 10. Mr. W. B. Tanner 109

No. 11. Mr. A. A. B. Woodin 147

No. 12. Mr. C. W. Nairn . . 199

No. 13. Mr. Alfred Nixon.. 271

Cyclists in Arms . . . . . . 141

Decadence of Clubs, and a sug- gested Method of Improve- ment, The . . . . . . 50

Defence of Racing, In (" Faed.") 144

Directory of Clubs . . . . &6

" Dishing" a London Crowd . . 187

Double Delight (•' Joey Sawtell") 1 57

Dunedin, a Bicycle Ride to . . 177 Duties of a Secretar\ , what are

the 4

Early Self-propelling Machines 89 Editorial : —

Freemasonry of the Wheel 1

Frosts 49

Good Value 97

Cyclists in Arms . . . . 141

Three Wheels or Two . . 185 Improving Tricycles, the

Road Ride 233

Enthusiast. The 152

Fiuland, Wheeling in Russian. . 236

Few Definitions, A. . . . . 152 Five-seated Machine, or Quinti-

cycle 118

Freemasonry of the Wheel . . 1 From Foreign Parts (" Tommy

~B.") 258

From Land's End to Jobn-o'-

Groat's on a Bicycle . . . . 165

Frosts 49

Future of Road Travelling, The 99 Gig that was Made to take One,

In my 122

Gravel and Cinders, 41, 86, 114, 159 202, 270

Good Value 97

Handel Barre's Ride . . . . 226

How the Wheel World Wags. 7, 58 102, 148, 192, 245 Humourist on Bicycling, an

American . . . . . . 265

Illustrations : — Cartoons —

R.P.Hampton-Roberts .. 13

R. H. Leslie 81

W. B. Tanner 109

A. A. B. Woodin .. ..147

C.W.Nairn .. ... .. 199

Alfred Nixon 271

" A Hold Friend" we may ex- pect to see at the Meet .. 14

4-\o«\<\V>

INDEX.

	PAGE.		PAGE.
A New Way of Dismounting	76	Reality	91
A Photographic Novelty	101	Record, Patent, 45, 93, 139, 183	232,
A Quiet Pipe	65		278
A Sketch of the Future	209	Regretted Rides (" Tommy B.")	200
Absent Minded . .	57	Roadside, By the	52
After a Hard Day's Ride	252	Roving Records, 27, 82, 125, 165	210,
And that Settled It . .	190		259
Before and after Bicycling ..	112	Run through Donegal, A	82
Bicyclists at the Meet	63	Self-propelling Machines, Early	89-
Bits from Barnes	88	Siege of Shamrock House, The	218
Bits from Surbiton	213	Song of the Irate Tricyclist, The	62
Drawing the Line	44	Song o' Summer, A	193
Hoff to Appy Ampton	3	Tasmania, Bicycling in . .	172.
Kindness	60	Testing a Novelty	249
On a Sociable	201	That Bicycle	287
The Advantages of Bicycling	225	The Decadence of Clubs, and a
The only Son and Heir	231	Suggested Method of Improve-
The Reason Why	258	ment	50
Words of Warning	153	The Duties of a Secretary, What
Imagination	91	are ?	4
Improving Tricycles, the Boad		The Enthusiast	152
Ride	233	The Future of Road Travelling	99
In Defence of Racing (" Faed")	144	The Irate Tricyclist, Song of . .	62
In my Gig that was made to take		The King's Stone, or the most
one — just one	122	Venerable Record of Antiquity
Irate Tricyclist, Song of the . .	62	on the Ripley Road (Lacy
John-o'-Groat's to Land's End		Hillier)	6
on a Tricycle	259	The Railroad Velocipede	73
Jottings from the Emerald Isle	22	The Road Ride, Improving
61, 120, 155, 196	,250	Tricycles	233
King's Stone, or the most vener-		The Sentimental Cyclist	110
. able Record of Antiquity on		The Siege of Shamrock House
the Ripley Road, The (Lacy		(Wm. Bull)	218
Hillier)	6	The Tricycle	255
Land's End to John-o'-Groat's		The Wheel in Barbados	32
on a Bicycle, From	165	Things a Cyclist oaght to know	90
London to Leicester: A Bicycling		Three Wheels or Two ? . .	185
Idyll	238	Tittlebat Thompkins' Bicycle . .	181
London to York	170	Touring Reminiscence, or, An
Long Bicycle Ride in New Zea-		Awkward Plight, A . .	214
land, A . .	79	To the Inventor	92
Midland Whispers	87	Travelling, The Future of Road	99
	119	Tricycle Tour, A Month's	210
Month's Tricycle Tour, A	210	Value, Good	97
Mr. Butterworth's Choice	89	Velocipede, The Railroad	73
Nautical View of a Bike, A	257	View of a Bike, A Nautical	257
Notes from New Zealand	158	Volunteer Bicyclists	251
Notes of a Cruise on Wheels in		What are the Duties of a Secre-
Normandy	27	tary ? (F. Percy Low)	4
On the Cliffs (" Bab Tardley ")	133	Wheel, Freemasonry of the	1
Our Christmas Number ("Bab		Wheel in Barbados, The	32
Yardley ")	273	Wheel World Wags, How the 7	58,
Patent Record, 45, 93, 139, 183,	232,	102, 148, 192,	245
	278	Wheeling in Russian Finland . .	236
Quinticycle, or Five -seated		Wheelman's Dress, A . .	191
Machine..	118	Whispers, Midland	87,
Racing, In defence of	144		119
Racing Record, Amateur, 74, 115, 160,	Who Introduced the Jockey
	203	Cap?	92
Railroad Velocipede, The	73	Why?	249

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

♦ 4J<>»(HIS»»»»»«4»«»»»»«0«»»««0*«»»« f «««««<

nOOJ ♦ RGADY !

si aM FJfeei World

ANNUAL,

EDITED BY C. W. WfllW & WW* JSTOI^EY,

CONTAINING:—

Diary and Almanac for 1882, with spaces for runs.

Complete Dictionary of the direct Roads from London throughout the United

Kingdom. An Analysis of spme English Eoads, compiled from personal investigation.

By " Observes," L.B.C. Description of the Principal Racing Courses used by Cyclists. The Racing Record of 1881, with Handicapper's Index. Summary of the Racing Season in the Metropolis, the Midlands, the West and

South-West, and in Scotland, by residents in each respective district. Table of fastest Amateur Times. By Mr. G. P. Coleman. Tricycle Road Records. The Complete Bibliography of Cycling. Tabulated and compiled by H.

Blackwell, Junr. " A Cycle of Cycling." By "Aofrr."

An Exhaustive Illustrated Article on " Monocycles." By Henby Stubmey. " Whitsuntide Wanderings of a Wharfedale Wheelman No. II." "Wilfred's Wheel of Fortune." By William J. Bull, Minerva B.C. (Author

of "Odds and Ends"). " Manners Maketh Men." By McCdllum Hill.

" How No. 1 of the ' Southern Wheeler' Appeared." By "Joey" Sawtell. "Bicycle Riding" — A Few Hints to Beginners. " A Tale of a Social." By " Joey " Sawtell.

" The Advantages of Bicycling." By R. P. Hampton-Roberts, Belsize B.C. " Incidents of the Road." By Charles R. Maddox.

" Fireside Thoughts on Tricycles and Tricycling." By Boveeton Redwood. " Mems on Tricycling." By Habby Venables. " That Glittering ' Rudge.' " By " Titanambungo." The Bicycle Touring Club. The Bicycle Union. Definition of an Amateur. The Clubs of the World and their Badges. Chronological Resume of the past year.

Demy 8vo. Nearly 300 Pages. 500 Illustrations.

PRICE ONE SHILLING,

POST FREE 1/4.

ILIFFE & SON, "The Cyclist" Office. COVENTRY. >. LONDON: HARRY ETHERINGTON, Fleet Street, E.C.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

HILLMAN,

HERBERT

COOPER

"PREMIER" WORKS, COVENTRY. 97, CHEAPSIDE, ITONTinN

5, LISLE ST., LEICESTER SQUARE, } LvlliSVll.

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SEND FOR Catalogue & Testimonials.

D.H.F. PREMIER. PREMIER DOUBLE DRIVER.

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO SHIPPERS.

Please say where you saw this.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

THE WORLD-RENOWNED

Duplex Excelsior Hollow Fork.

'tii£JJ££tJlfJffffft//ii*J*/Jff//J/it/fJJJM*iiJt*/I£J£/iilttttttttfttliJ/li£/J/fJJJ*£IJiJfftM£JJIJfi

ALL IMPEOVEMENTS, SPECIAL QUALITY & FINISH,

As supplied to the American Bicyclist Touring Party,

JULY, 1880.

Patronised by Eer Majesty's Postmaster General,

The Excelsior Tricycle, No. 1.

■nt/tiitfrfrfrrrtit/f/ririiftrifttrit/fitffwgiririi/ri/rrrrrrrrnrrrrrrrrrwrwrii'j'ffrjffjrffjfi

With Patent Gear (No. 4842, Nov., 1879), in lieu of Endless Chain. Ball Bear- ings to all Wheels, and Pedal Action. Hundreds in daily use by the Postal Service, running from 20 to 40 miles daily. A proof of their durability and easy running.

THE CHAMPION 10 MILE AMATEUR TRICYCLE RACE,

Run at Belgrave Road Grounds, Leicester, Easter Tuesday, April 19, 1881 was Won by S. Corbett, Jun., C.B.C., on an " Excelsior," manufactured by BAYLISS, THOMAS & Co. Time, 42m. 54s., beating G. Hillier (on Humber), and C. D. Vesey (on Humber).

At the Fifty Miles Tricycle Race, on November 6th, 1880, from Finchley to Hitchin and back, the four "Excelsior" Tricycles ridden by Messrs. H. J. Bell, W.K.T.C. ; S. Corbett, C.B.C. ; C. Kitching, W.K.T.C. ; and W. W. Williams, W.K.T.C, were each winners of medals, having completed the distance in the specified time,

BAYLISa THOMAS & Co.,

"Excelsior" Works, Coventry,

The oldest and largest Bicycle and Tricycle Manufacturers in Coventry with one exception.

Descriptive Price List, with Woodcuts and Testimonials, 48 pages, Id. stamp.

LONDON AGENTS:

GOY & Co.. Leadenhall Street, E.C.;

HICKLING & Co., 30, Queen Victoria St.

[e.c

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

"TJIE CYCMgT" PITTING W0W,

ILIFFE & SON,

PRINTERS

AND

PUBLISHERS.

ESTIMATES ON APPLICATION,

12, SMITHFORD STREET & YICAR LANE, COVENTRY.

SECOND THOUSAND.

REDUCED TO ONE SHILLING,

Post Free 1/3.

NAUTIGUS hTs HOBBY HORSE ;

A Tricycle Tour of 1,428 miles through England. By the Author of " Nauticus in Scotland."

Of all Bicycle and News Agents; or London, HARRY ETHERINGTON, 152, Fleet Street, E.G.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May 1882.

THE "HOWE MACHINE CO.'S Bicycles & Tricycles

Are constructed of the best material, and by the most experienced of workmen. They are planned on the surest mechanical principles, and possess all the desirable "points" in 'cycling machines.

THE "HOWE" TRICYCLE.

Two large wheels of 44 inch. Small wheel behind.

Price, £16 16s.

THE "HOWE" MACHINE Co, L4, Bridgeton, Glasgow.

London: 46, Queen Victoria Street.

BRANCH OFFICES AND AGENCIES IN EVERY TOWN.

THE "HOWE" BICYCLE.

Hollow Oval Fork, Double Ball Bearings, Tapered Backbone. Parts Inter- changeable.

Prices froin £15 15s.

IHE "PIONEER"

BICYCLE.

H. J. PAUSEY, University Bicycle Works,

BEDFORD ROAD, CLAPHAM, S.W. Three Minutes1 Walk iioui Claphani-road Railway Station.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

M. D. RUCKER, JUN., & Co.,

Letchford's Buildings, Bethnal Green, London, E.

~new section of rim

Advantages. — The Rubber is held securely without cement, is easily turned when worn, and is then equal to a new tyre. The rirns bsing s biff er make stronger wheels.

CENTRAL PIN STEERING,

Secured with Patent Nut of which X and Y are the plan and elevation. Advantages.— Extra Rigidity. A greater and better bearing surface, and consequently less subject to wear, ease of adjustment and impossibility to work loose.

(swindley's patent). cc

*SfCI7oNOFRl»4'^

(bell's patent).

THE "RUCKER" BICYOLB

Is made of best possible material, and for risridity, strength, and appearance cannot be sur

passed. The above and other patented improvements are supplied, if required,

without extra charge.

PRICE, for any size, bright or japanned, with hall hear- ings to both wheels, £17 17s. No Extras.

SEND FOB PBICE LISTS WITH FULL PAETICULAES.

THE PATENT 'CLYTIE' TOURISTS' BAG,

Prices. — Best quality Cowhide, 21/- ; other materials, 15/-. MANUFACTURERS OF THE "DEVON" SAFETY.

The Wheel World Advertiser— May, 1882.

By Royal t^^&^^^^^- Letters Patent

Thomas Warwick,

MANUFAOTUEER OF

^ieyele Jittli||p of efeif |)®$«pti<»e

Sole Maker of WOOLLEY'S

PPEP gPI^ip PDDIiEg,

PRICE — No. 1, with Flexible Sides, 6s. each.

„ No. 2, with Ordinary Plain Saddle, 4s. each.

These Saddles are acknowledged by all riders who have tried them to be the most comfortable seat yet introduced, affording great ease to the rider when riding over rough and bad roads and long journeys. Testimonials, &c, on application.

WARWICK'S PATENT RIMS

Are now so well known, and are so strong and durable, that all riders should have them on their Bicycles.

Uteres ^asortm^nt of JKatmals of all kitttrs altoags tit ^tock, of tat finis lj atto quality,

INCLUDING

Eims, Spokes, Backbones, Hollow Forks, Hubs, Bearings,

Pedals, Springs, Lubricators, Oil Cans, Saddles

and Bags, Bells, Lamps,

And all parts finished and in the, rough.

Stampings of every kind, of Best Quality.

Price Lists Free on application to the Works,

ALMA ST., ASTON NEW TOWN,

BIRMINGHAM.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

HYDES & WIGFULL,

LIMITED,

ENGINEERS, SHEFFIELD AND LONDON,

MANUFACTUBEBS OF THE CELEBBATED

u STANLEY," ''CHESJJR^&J^UUMIJON " BICYCLES. THE "REGISTERED STANLEY" BICYCLE.

The best Hollow-fork Bicycle in the market. This machine is turned out com- plete, with Ball-bearings to both Wheels, Brake, Leg-guard, Dust Cap to Head, and nickel-plated. Price for 52in., £18 IOs.

THE "REGISTERED~°CHESTER" BICYCLE.

A splendid machine, with broad Hollow-forks, Ball-bearings to front Wheel, new dust-proof Cones to back Wheel, Brake, Leg-guard, and Dust-cap to head. All bright and burnished. Price for 52in., iEl5 IOs. If painted, 10s. less. Nickel-plated 40s. extra. Ball bearings to back Wheel, 20s. extra.

Either of the above fitted -with H. & W.'s Registered Duplex Antifriction Ball Bearing Head, 50/- extra.

THE "'MARMION" BICYCLE.

A good sound machine, with Hollow-fork both front and back, Ball bearings to front wheel, Cones to back, half-bright. Price for 52in. JE12 IOs.

THE " ORIGINAL "STANLEY " BICYCLE.

Of world-wide renown. Price for 52in., all bright, <£13.

THE "ORIGINAL CHESTER" BICYCLE.

Similar to the " Original Stanley," but painted in three colours. Price for 52in., £11, the best value in the market.

LONDON BRANCH:— THE GREAT-WESTERN BICYCLE AND TRICYCLE DEPOT,

2, & 2a, Praed Street, Paddington, W., (One minute from Edgware Road Station,) London Manager, Mr. W. T. CliOOKE,

Where REPAIRS are executed promptly and well, at Reasonable Charges-

Also a large and varied stock of BICYCLE and TRICYCLE SUNDRIES,

Low Prices and Good Value. Specially prepared lubricating oil, 1/- per bottle.

Riding Taught by experienced Assistants, in Covered Room, 60ft. long.

Cbief Instructor, PROFESSOR L1NCH.

N.B.— Bicycles & Tricycles Sold on the Instalment System.

DESCRIPTIVE PRICE LIST and all particulars Post Free, or on application to either the Sheffield or London House.

rThe Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

THE

NO. I VIADUCT,"

44, 46, 48, 50 INCH, COMPLETE FOR

£7 7s. Od.

SPECIFICATIONS,

Stanley or Humber head and neck ; handle bar, 22 or 24 inches wide, with ebony or rose-

On Wicksteed's Patent Double- purpose Stand. Reduced Price of Stand, 4/6.

wood handles ; best Lowmoor iron forks ; large flanged hubs, with from 50 to 60 direct spokes or nuts and nipples ; case- hardened, parallel or coned bearing ; best lap-welded back- bone ; spoon brake ; U or V steel rims ; rubber or rat-trap pedals ; hogskin saddle ; solid leather pocket ; patent wrench ; oil can and bell. Painted in two colours. If with single or double ball bearings, 20/- extra.

For the superiority of our Manufacture we were awarded the PRIZE MEDAL SYDNEY EXHIBITION, 1879, also MELBOURNE, 1881.

TRICYCLES from 12 Guineas.

Ditto FOR BOYS & GIRLS from 3 ditto.

The Original and Largest Makers in the World of all Parts, Fittings, and Sundries for either Riders or Makers.

SEND FOB OUR MEW ILLUSTRATED PRICE EIST.

THOMAS SMITH & SONS,

Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester, Bolton and Manchester.

LONDON BRANCH-61, HOLBORN VIADUCT, E.C.

ESTABLISHED 1848.

lo The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

NOW READY!

THE THIRD ANNUAL XTRA

Xmas Number of The 8 yclist,

EDITED BY HENRY STURMEY,

CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING

Articles, Christmas Tales, Romances, Adventurous Rides,

&c, &c. THE YEAR OF SPOET. By the Editor.

HOW I PROVED AN ALIBI. By William J. Bull, Minerva B.C. (Author of " Odds & Ends"). A WILD, WILD RIDE ; or, The Mystery op the Dead Hand. A Reminiscence of the

Great Meet of Bicyclists at Harrogate. By Walter Crompton, Capt. Warrington B.C. MY BICYCLING EXPERIENCE. By " Beachey Head." LONDON TO LEICESTER IN 189— A Tale of the "German Occupation." By "Agonistes,'

Hampstead B.C. BOYCOTTED. A Night's Adventure. By T. H. Holding, Prest. B. T.C. A RIDE INTO DREAMLAND. By "B.," Canonbury B.C. LA SOMNAMBULA. By " W.J.C."

THE MYSTERY OF THE MANTEL-PIECE. By " Choey Sawtell," Sherborne B.C. AN ADVENTUROUS PIONEER RIDE IN AUSTRALIA. From Sydney, over the Blue

Mountains to the Temora Gold Fields, 360 Miles through the Bush. By " J.W." THE CAPTAIN'S WIFE. By" Tommy B." THAT GARRULOUS STRANGER. By "Ab Initio."

THE EFFECTS OF A BEEF-STEAK SUPPER. Two Illustrations. By " Smangle, £50 REWARD. By " Fabian." [Pickwick B.C.

CYCLISTS UNDER CANVAS ; or, Jottings from the Harrogate Camp. Twenty-five

Illustrations. By Lacy Hilher. OUR YOUNGEST MEMBER. By " Bab Yardley." A GLANCE AT OUR ADVERTISERS. By the Editor.

POEMS, BALLADS, RHYMES, &c.

INTRODUCTORY VERSES. By the Editor.

THE DOCTOR AND HIS TRICYCLE. Founded on Fact. By"W.N.M."

THE CRY OF HUNDREDS. By "Plated Treadles."

THE LEGEND OF SIR SCORCHALONG AND THE LADY POTOJAM. Eight Illustra- tions. By " Faed."

THE FENIAN'S RIDE, Dedicated to and Written for Harry J. Swindley. By "Agonistes,"

THE B.T.C. By "A Zingari." [Hampstead B.C.

OUR PRESIDENT'S GOOSE. By "August," B.T.C.

A DOGGEREL CATASTROPHE. By "A.R."

IN NINETEEN HUNDRED AND ONE. A Topical Bicycling Song. By " Tommy B."

CYCLING versus COURTSHIP. By " Aout."

NURSERY RHYMES. By "Aout."

SMEARS, SMUDGES, SPOTS, AND SPLUTTERINGS. By "Algernon Sidney."

THE UNATTACHED CYCLIST. Being the Lamentations and Confessions of a Bachelor Tricycle Rider. By "August," B.T.C.

DELIGHTS OF THE WHEEL. By " Whiterius," B.T.C.

OVER THE HANDLE-BAR. A Parody. By " W.W., Junr."

A TRIBUTE. By "W.J.C."

ILLUSTRATIONS.

(In addition to the Illustrated Articles and Verses mentioned above.) Cover Sketch (illuminated in gold and coiotmej. Fbontispiece. Nothing like A Cheap Machine. 'Arry. Ye Boneshaker. Up-Hill. Down-Hill. A Disputed Point (allegorical of the Social Question). A Lady Trioycler op the Future. People who Won't Get Out op the Way. The Social Question. Rattling His Bones over the Stones. A Sketch on the Path. On His Milky Whey. A Rash Attempt. Legs Over (Six Illustrations). The Bicyclist ("According to the evidence usually given before Magistrates," and "According to facts"). Foiled. Hats. Feet. Another Grievance. Legs. Exploring. An Incident (Scenes I. and II), and others.

Also "A Page op Puzzles," by " Faed's Australian Cousin," for the solution of which Beveral prizes are offered. Conundrums. Odd Verses, &c, &c, &c.

PRICE ONE SHILLING.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

THE LEICESTER TRICYCLE COMPANY,

ftation Hard, fieieeater.

SOLE MANUFACTURERS OF RIBBFS PATENTS.

THE SAFETY FOLDING TRICYCLE.

¥JIE fcEICEgJFER g^FEM TOIC¥CLE$

are strong and light, and approach more nearly to the Bicycle than any other machines. They are built vertically ; can be mounted and dismounted while in motion more easily and quickly than a bicycle ; are perfect automatic double drivers, either forwards or backwards ; are steered by one or both hands, and are easily stopped by a most powerful balance brake without loosing either of the steering handles.

The folding Tricycle, without disturbing any of the working parts, or adding materially to the weight, can be reduced in a few seconds to the very narrow width of 15 inches.

Leicester

Safety

Catalogues sent on receipt of Stamp.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

Now Ready. The Cyclist's " Whittaker." Illustrated.

IDHEELMAN'S YEAR BOOK,

ALMANACK AND DIARY, 1882.

Edited by H. T. Round, and compiled by W. D. Welford.

Club Register. Officers' Register. List of Peesidents, &o. Club Championships. Formation of Clubs. Progress of Clubs. Racing Calendar. Indexes to Winners. Fastest Times. London Handicaps. English Bye-Laws.

Some Wheels of To-dat. Making of Modern Bicycle. History during 1881 of B.U. B.T.C., L.A.W., U.V.F., &c.

with Rules, &g. Diary, Week on Page. Sun Rise and Sun Set. Rising and Setting of Moon. Almanack.

Astronomical Tables. Chronology.

Some Press Opinions on the 1§§1 Edition.

" The best thing of the kind yet produced."— Field. " Everything is done thoroughly."— Design and Work. " By far the most useful book that has yet appeared."— M idland Athlete. "Never before has such a mas? of information been sold for that merely nominal coin." — The Cyclist.

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The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882. 13

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The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

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The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882. 15

THE WHEEL WORLD.

CONTENTS FOR MAY.

PAGE

Freemasonry of the Wheel . . . . 1

What are the Duties of a Secretary ? 4

The King's Stone, or the most Venerable Relic of Antiquity on the Eipley Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

"How the Wheel World 'Wags'" 7

Cycling Celebrities. — No. 8. Mr. R. P. Hampton Roberts . . . . 13

Alice, a Cycling Ballad 15

Jottings from the Emerald Isle 22

An American Humourist on Bicycling 23

Amongst the Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Roving Records 27

The Wheel in Barbados 32

A Club-room Conversation 35

Gravel and Cinders 41

Amateur Racing Record for April, 1882 41

Patent Record 45

GOOD THINGS!!

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The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

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FREEMASONRY OF THE WHEEL.

E have not the advantage of belonging to that ancient body the Freemasons, of which Frank Honeywell, J. W. Beningfield, and other well-known wheelmen are such distinguished ornaments, but we can quite imagine that it consists of " all sorts and conditions of men," and that it is by no means necessary— though it very frequently follows, and always opens up a chance for so doing — for masons to "pal" indiscrimin- ately merely because they both belong to the craft. His Royal High- ness the Prince of Wales is a member of the body alluded to, but we are not aware — supposing, for argument's sake, that he were passing the night at a B.T.C. house, in a private room — that J. W. B., or any other touring "brother," would be justified in disturbing his privacy simply because they both possessed a knowledge of those mystic signs and ceremonies, which to the ordinary and vulgar mind are only dimly associated with open coffins and red-hot pokers. It is very certain that all Freemasons do not personally agree. It is with- in our own knowledge that when a once prominent rider proposed to form a lodge for wheelmen, another equally prominent wheelman, who was likewise a " brother," at once said, " Then I won't play." If this is the case in such an ancient, such a widely acknowledged, and such a well supported body as the Freemasons of England, why should it be expected that no similar feelings should exist amongst wheelmen who are not masons ? Beyond a greater liking for athletic travel, there is nothing to distinguish wheelmen from other ordinary good citizens. They are of the same flesh and blood, speak the same language, and vary just as much in social position as do the majority of those who form Freemasonry. It is not to be expected that a mere bond of Freemasonry can make the whole world equal, nor convert men with widely divergent tastes and feelings into intimate friends. This is not what is either expected or required. Writing in ignorance of the exact private reasons for which Free- masonry exists, we cannot of course deal with it as fully as we could were the secrets of the Council Chamber laid bare to us, but we can look to the orphan schools and the other charities which the craft support, and see that it is not necessary for men to be socially equalised, or made personally amicable, to enable them to work earnestly together for the good of a good cause. Having said this much, we think we can very safely say that when we urge, as we

THE WHEEL WORLD.

have urged, and will always urge, that there should be a Free- masonry of the wheel, it is not a wild chimera ; on the contrary it is a perfectly practicable and highly desirable project. We need go no further than clubs. Pray is it the case that every member of a bicycle club is on good terms with every other member ? Certainly not ; but yet has not each member the interest of the club at heart, or would he continue to support it by his subscription ? Sojourning in a B.T.C. house quite recently, there were some three or four dis- tinct parties of cyclists there, who had their meals at separate hours, and who never spoke or interfered in any way with one another's doings. They all belonged to what is, in its way, a great Freemasonry., viz., the B.T.C, but they did not consider that that mere fact compelled one party to call on another to alter their mode or hour of feeding, so that they might associate together at meals. They did not converse, simply because among their own set each had ample means of exercising his conversational powers, but had any information or assistance been wanted, then would have stepped in the " bond of wheel Freemasonry," and what was asked. for would have been gladly rendered. To urge that there can be no " Freemasonry of the wheel" because two or three ill-conditioned fellows have from time to time trespassed, or wanted to trespass, upon their fellow cyclists' privacy, on the sole ground that both were riders of wheels, is simply an absurdity, which hardly calls for argu- ment. We hold — and we always shall hold — that there ought to be a willingness on the part of all riders to assist one another as far as they can, by reason solely of the bond between them of the mutual love of one particular sport, and more especially should this be shown, because cyclists are, as we have said elsewhere, a body who are not in favour with the general public — in fact they stand alone. The man who urges that a Freemasonry of the wheel necessarily means an indiscriminate associating of all riders who meet, and must perforce mean the forming of one vast social commune of wheelmen, has given little thought to the subject. Riders want, and can expect, no greater result socially than is to be found within the ordinary meaning of Freemasonry. They can get all the work required for their mutual good carried out through the channels of the B.T.C. and the B.U., if they support those bodies.

"The Hombes" Bicycle (Manufactubebs— Humbeb, Mabbiott & Coopeb : Wobks — Beeston, Notts).— This celebrated machine is undeniably the fastest, lightest and strongest used on the racing path. The fastest one and two miles on record, also the greatest distance in one hour (18| miles 210 yards), have been accomplished upon them. As a roadster the " Humber" is undeniably miles faster in a day's journey, and more durable than any other machine manufactured. The fact that the " Humber " bicycles are now almost exclusively ridden by all bicyclists of distinction at the Universities and throughout the United Kingdom, is sufficient evidence of their superiority over all others. Samples are on. iew at the London Depot, 78, Richmond Koad, West Brompton. Price lists and testimoniala free on application.— Adyt.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

ISTai/tie-S

THE WHEEL WORLD.

WHAT ARE THE DUTIES OF A SECRETARY?

By F. Percy Low, Hampstead B.C.

HERE are said to be three things that every Englishman fancies he can do without any previous training, viz., drive a gig, edit a newspaper, and manage a theatre. I have always added in my own mind another popular fallacy which is confined to cyclists — that anyone can fill the post of Secretary. It was therefore with feelings of considerable astonish- ment that I read some time ago in the Cyclist a request from the founder of a new club asking some good Samaritan to write and in- form him " What were the duties of a Secretary ?"

The surprise I felt at learning that there existed a man so modesr as not to imagine that he could secretary a club far and away bettet than any other man could teach him, almost led me to take a pilgrim- age to the address given, in order that I might gaze long and earnestly at the features of a man who is, I feel sure, one of the most modest of the age.

Whether this polite request was complied with I know not, but it has struck me that there may possibly be others in the same state of ignorance, and as no one abler has come forward to give us the benefit of his experience, this article is written in the hope that it may be of some use to those who propose some day or other to em- bark on a Secretary-ship.

The chief officers of a club are the Captain and Secretary, and the first thing in considering the duties of a Secretary is to distinguish them from those of the Captain, and for that purpose I have always found the following rule fairly embrace everything : — " On the road and in matters connected with the road the Captain has full com- mand and the Secretary is as a private member, but off the road and in the general management of the club the Secretary has full com- mand (subject to the Committee) and the Captain is as a private member of the Committee." Please notice the distinction. On the road, of course, the Captain has absolute power and the Committee cannot control his actions, except in very exceptional cases ; but if the entire control of the club generally were left in the hands of one man, it would be investing him with too much authority, and there- fore the Secretary is entirely subject to the Committee. In some clubs, of course, the above rule may need a little modification, but I think that it is fairly comprehensive.

I will now suppose a club to have been started, a Secretary and Committee appointed, and the first General Meeting adjourned for a fortnight. In the interval the Secretary must draw up a code of rules (take two or three other clubs' rules, and combine, modify, and add to them), submit them to the Committee, and then to the General Meeting, when, after every rule has had at least half-an-

THE WHEEL WORLD.

hour's discussion, they will be finally passed. At a General Meeting the Secretary must call upon the members to elect a chair- man, and then take copious notes of all that is done, with a view to writing up the minutes. And here I may remark that this minute business is the most irksome part of the Secretary's duties, as he has generally to introduce and, if possible, carry through all the recommendations of the Committee, and also to assist (or pretend to assist) private members in carrying their motions, and, like Captain Bunsby, he has to give an opinion on any subject, and if information is wanted it is always said, " Ask the Secretary, he ought to know." All this rather interferes with the proper taking of notes, and I advise the Secretary to get some good-natured friend, who is not going to do much talking, to take the notes for him, and he will then be able to spend a pleasant hour or two endeavouring to decipher his abbrevia- tions and erratic handwriting. At all General Meetings the Secretary must be prepared to defend the Committee, explain all discrepancies and difficulties, combat all objections, and, above all, please every- body. The advise of Mr. .ZEsop (a hairy man who wrote fables, and sold the copyright for a mess of potash — ? Ed. — ) in the fable of the " Old Man and his Ass," may be here read with advantage.

The Secretary has full power to call Committee Meetings when- ever he thinks it necessary, and he will find that not only must he send out notices convening the meeting, but he will have to call personally on every Committee-man to ascertain if he is coming, as should there not be a quorum, those who have turned up will speak their minds freely to the wretched man at whose bidding they have come. At a Committee Meeting he must, of course, be there punctually, and wait, if need be, an hour in case anyone comes a little late, and no matter at what time his train goes he must remain to the end and take notes for his precious minutes.

The Secretary has to conduct the whole of the correspondence of the club, and answer all letters by return of post, or sooner, and at the same time consult the Committee before answering. He has also to represent his club at Dinners, Balls, Concerts, Musical Evenings, et hoc genus omne, and if called upon will have to reply for the visitors, or propose or respond to any other toast. Should his club determine to go in for these gaieties, he will have all the pre- liminary arrangements to manage, and if the affair should turn out a success he must not be surprised if someone else comes in and claims all the credit ; but if the thing is a failure, he may be perfectly certain that all the blame will be thrown upon him.

In arranging festivities, the Secretary should always bear in mind what is due to other clubs, and complimentary tickets should be sent to the officers of all clubs with whom friendly relations exist, and let the tickets plainly state that they are complimentary, and do not let the recipient be in doubt as to whether he is expected to pay or to come as a guest.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

Should his club be attacked in the Press or elsewhere, it is the Secretary's duty to defend it, and in doing so he should be very care- ful not to let his temper get the better of him, and whatever opportunities his opponents may give let him avoid " snacking " and saying disagreeable things which a week after he may wish unsaid.

The Secretary generally sees more of the members than any other officer, and should therefore be as courteous and friendly as possible, listen to all complaints, and if possible remedy them. He will, of course, have to superintend all the printing and draw up all official documents, and through him should come all the official utterances of the club.

Thus shortly have I endeavoured to indicate the principal duties of a Club Secretary, and I trust that it will not be thought that be- cause I happen to hold such a position myself I have exaggerated the difficulties for the purpose of self praise. No one is more con- scious of their own deficiencies than myself, and I know that were it not for the assistance given me by brother officers my club would soon regret their selection, and I feel sure that no Secretary can hope for success unless he is on the best of terms with his brother officers. I have not touched on the duties of Treasurer, as in most clubs they are fulfilled by a different man.

THE KING'S STONE, OR THE MOST VENERABLE RELIC OF ANTIQUITY ON THE RIPLEY ROAD.

By Lacy Hillier.

good many riders probably know of the existence of this relic of the past, but the majority, doubtless, are more engaged in thinking of the bumpy macadam than of the antiquities around them. Passing through Kingston, en route to Ripley, on the left hand side after crossing the market place, and just before passing over the low bridge which spans a little stream, may be noticed a highly ornamental railing, with seven pillars, elaborately finished, enclosing a rough block of stone. This rugged mass is popularly supposed to have given " Kingston " its name. Kingston is one of the most ancient of English towns, and has been termed the metropolis of the Anglo-Saxon kings. In the year 838 a national council was held here by King Egbert and his son Athelwolf, and, as many of the Saxon monarchs were crowned whilst sitting on this stone, the place obtained the name it now bears in place of its earlier appellation, " Moreford." As nearly all the Saxon monarchs, from Edward the Elder (901 — 925), son of Alfred the Great, down to Ethelred (979 — 1016), brother of Edward the Martyr, a period of a century, were invested with royal honours

THE WHEEL WORLD.

in Kingston, we may conclude that it was an important city, a deduc- tion which is borne out by the fact that Kingston was second only to London in having a bridge across the Thames ; in fact, several writers consider it more than probable that the Romans constructed a bridge here. Local historiographers identify the sites of several ancient buildings, notably, the Saxon Palace, the Castle (presum- ably built by the Romans to protect their city), the Jews' Quarter, and the Roman Town (which bore the name of " Tamesa," doubt- less connected with the name of the Thames). To quote from yet another author (Mr. King), " But perhaps the most interesting object now to be found in Kingston is ' The King's Stone.' It had long remained neglected, though not unknown, among disregarded heaps of debris in ' the new court yard,' when it occurred to some zealous and intelligent antiquaries that so venerable a relic of remote ages was entitled to some show of respect. It was consequently removed from its degraded position, planted in the centre of the town, and enclosed by a ' suitable ' iron railing." Let the knee-breeched student of history, next time he passes through this most venerable city, pause for a moment before this hoary relic of the past, and try for one moment to realize that Alfred the Great himself may have sat on this very stone, dispensing that justice which has caused his name to be held up through a thousand years as a shining example of good government. " He was so exact," says one writer, " in his govern- ment, that robbery was unheard of, and valuable goods might be left in the high road without danger." Roman ditches, walls, and fosses also exist — or rather the remains of them — but the King's Stone is undoubtedly the most interesting, as it is the most venerable antiquity on the Ripley Road.

HOW THE WHEEL WORLD WAGS.

]OCIABLY ! that's how. What a world — a wheel world — of difference the bow to the I, which turns it into a b, does make ! Had I omitted the bow to the b in that initial word, a vastly different interpretation would be given to it, and wheel worldly wise ones would conclude that we were yet in the throes of the winter social season. But the whirlijigger of time has mercifully released us from the " social" craze for a few months, and instead of wagging socially, the cycle universe waggeth sociably — sociable-tricyclingly, to be more exact.

Eighteen hundred and eighty-two bids fair to be a wheelman's era of prominent magnitude. For years past we have been talking, and writing, and reading about the good time coming when the ladies would take to tricycling ; but hitherto it has always been prospective, and another instance of the " man never is, but always to be, blest " theory, which I dilated upon some months ago. Now, however, we

8 THE WHEEL WORLD.

have optical demonstration of the fact that the ladies are taking to tricycles in large numbers ; and, thanks to the growing popularity of double tricycles, there are yet more who, though not possessing machines of their own, eagerly embrace every opportunity of occupy- ing the spare seat on their friend's pair-harness three-wheelers.

And let me tell you, doubting Thomases, that there is nothing under the sun so calculated to enhance a man's popularity as the possession of one of these same Sociables. Since I speculated in one the number of my very affectionate friends has increased to an astonishing degree, and all the most enchantingly lovely of my female acquaintances have evinced an amount of interest in me that was quite embarrassingly flattering until I recollected the cause, and felt considerably small to think that the possession of a tricycle did more to popularise me than the possession of all those arts and accomplishments which it has taken so many years to acquire. Such is the wheel world !

Somebody tells me that an inspection of last month's issue of this magazine failed to discover any record of the Canonbury B.C.'s second annual assault-at-arms, which took place on February 25th ; but I tell him that it goes without saying that the affair went off with triumphant success. Still, for the benefit of the enquiring New Zealander, who, in future ages, pores through the pages of this matchless monthly in search of truth, I had better add that the Canonbury Club netted a respectable pile of dollars over their venture. The press was unanimous in lauding everything as perfect. The tug-of-war resulted in the Druids carrying off the medals, and the trainer race was pulled off by the same sweet youth who won that at he Three Nuns a few evenings previously.

Since then there have been two other races on home trainers, both of which brought out smaller fields than that of the Anchorites, he immortalised as " Mobber of the Bowled-broken League" winning in each case, the deaf cove of many rioms de plume having retired from all contests.

This reminds me that the racing path will no more know several of its erst most promising votaries. Hillier is known to have finally retired, and I think his resolve will be adhered to more resolutely than the similar decision made by Cortis ; the demon's retirement having been caused by business considerations, but "Jarge" being literally disgusted with racmg, and glad to give it up now that he has attained the highest possible honours. I recollect an occasion, some two years ago, when the muchly-attached young man was so disgusted at a series of petty annoyances, that he seriously contem- plated throwing up bicycling altogether ; and neither he nor any one else dreamt that he would so soon become king of the castle. This month, I have not only decided to give up racing, but really think of selling my only remaining bicycle, restricting myself to the three- wheeler ; and yet — who knows ?

THE WHEEL WORLD.

The modesty of the foregoing is self-apparent.

Pullin, of the Pickwick — one of the best men who ever mounted a racer, because his form was natural, and not the result of a long course of artificial building-up — is another good man who will be missed from the track, the bad cropper which he enjoyed at the A.P. last year having been the last straw of misfortune which led to his racing " Humber" being advertised for sale ; and Civil Service Shaw will no more face the starter on a back-mark, a business engagement in Paris having greater attractions for him. Runtz and Tarling — those old contestants for the Pickwick seventy guinea pot — have likewise determined to rest on their laurels ; and if a few scores of limit men can be persuaded to seek their proper sphere, on the road, there will be more breathing room for budding talent around our cinder paths, and Mr. Public Handicapper Coleman will be able to fill up vacancies in his record book with the names of last year's little boys who will be next year's racing cracks.

As to which district, or what clubs, those cracks will spring from, I dinna ken, but there does, at last, appear some probability of the North of the Metropolis having an equal chance with other districts in the growth of good scorching talent, the Alexandra Palace people having at last made a move, and announced that a race meeting will take place early in May, on their new track. Even now, so often have we been taken in by the Muswell Hill lessees, I find it difficult to repose any confidence in the statement, and decline to give it as authoritative until next month, when I shall have acquired certain knowledge by the means which, according to the proverb, compels credence.

The latest cycling celebrity to fall a prey to the matrimonia' malady is the Union's honorary secretary. Yes, strange as it may seem, it is true that Mr. Cork, widower as he is, has yet the temerity to again go to church with a lady, and " proclaim to all and sundry his voluntary undertaking to pay her milliner's bills for life," as an American humourist puts it. Seriously, hundreds of wheelmen who know " Old Cork," like him for his genial good fellowship, and respect him for his untiring labours in the cause of the Union, will echo my heartiest wishes for a happy result of his second marriage, which takes place at Pinner on April 26th. " May this new union have no early struggles and heart-burnings as did the Bicycle Union, which he so gallantly upheld through all its trials ; but may the success which has crowned his labours — as witness the 6,000 odd members on the B.U. roll — find an echo in that which results from the morning call at the Pinner church," is the sentiment which we will drink, if you please. Pop ! Fizz ! ! ! ! ! Ah ! " For he's a

jolly good ." There, you will all sing that without my finishing

it.

The "Pushing Penn'orth" has done good service by exposing " the ways that are dark and the tricks that are vain " of the firm

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whose modesty would not permit of their saying more than that they guaranteed their "jiggers" to be equal to any possible to be manufactured, and who, to signalise this unusual warranty of the long-hoped-for Ultima Thule having been reached, offer to knock forty per cent, off the price of every machine supplied to a clubman, and to privately tip such clubman's captain an additional ten per cent, into the bargain. I don't know whether any clubmen have fallen into the trap so enticingly laid for them, but it seems improb- able that many unattached riders will patronise this enterprising firm who, according to their own showing, would make the un- attached pay twice as much for their bicycles as clubmen.

What to sit down upon when tricycling, is the burning question of the month, and it is amusing to observe the gravity with which one party enunciates his views upon the super-excellence of this kind of saddle, and the heated vehemence with which another party insists upon that sort of seat being the only one compatible with comfort ; both apparently oblivious of the consideration that what " is one man's meat is another man's poison." I have an idea that nobody who has been in the habit of riding a bicycle can pretend to judge of the most suitable kind of seat or saddle for tricyclists who have not had the misfortune to undergo a course of education on the lofty two-wheeler.

A new club is vaguely talked of as having been recently formed under the title of Jupiter B.C. This must not be confused with the Rovers, of which the popular "Jupiter" is captain.

By the way, Jupiter has been in warm water lately, the columns of the "eminently correspondential paper" being the medium through which Gaffer Goliath has been calling Jupiter wicked names. A mild skit upon the unattached was the casus belli, and Gaffer promptly told Jupiter he was "another," to which A. A. B.W. retorted that Gaffer was one also, and a pretty little shindy resulted, much to the delight of the Editor, whose columns were thus con- veniently filled at a slack period.

The secretaries of the two leading tricycle clubs have been elected to the two vacant seats on the Union Executive ; and an honorary officer of one of them, apparently riled at having been overlooked, has said, " 'taint fair, I shan't play." A mad wheel world, my masters.

The Speedwellians have successfully initiated the lead of the Stanleyites, by organising an exhibition at Brummagem. Readers of The Cyclist were astonished to behold a supplement to that paper, consisting of the portraits of the men of light and leading in the club of good pace. But the central figure's bicycle told tales, and made, one wonder how it is that artists will not stoop to details. The treadles alone, being of a pattern which was popular on the ancient boneshaker, showed that the litho. was the work of a non-wheelman.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

And while on this topic, Mr. Editor, I beg to call your attention to the fact that it is just six months since you promised us a greater variety of illustrations to our " W.W.," but the fourth volume, just completed, is very meagre in pictorial attractions. (We mean the fifth to make up for that though. — Ed.)

With the Easter racing, the usual handicapping scandals crop up> and what with Carlisle and Southend to begin with, the season promises to afford a plentiful supply of material for " scorchers " to grumble at. If fellows will enter for such races as are known to be handicapped by such rank duffers as " Mister Finn, of Canterbury," they must not be surprised at being hopelessly shut out of it in the manner in which, one man, who had never run in an open race in his life, was, by being placed at scratch !

"Is the Union an error?" was soon replied to by a convincing negative, when W. MacW. mooted the question in a sporting magazine ; and imitation being the sincerest form of flattery, the correctness of the Bicycle Union's constitution may be taken to have received additional confirmation by the formation of kindred associa- tions in Australia and Ireland.

The Monstre Meet craze has set in with renewed severity, Easter Monday being the occasion for several such gatherings in the pro- vinces. At Brighton, some 150 bicyclists and 25 tricyclists, rode in the straggling order peculiar to Brighton meets ; at Tynemouth, a very successful gathering of 313 bicyclists and 19 tricyclists created a great furore ; and 69 bicyclists and a solitary three-wheeler met at Bettws-y-coed. In prospect, we have the Metropolitan tricycle meet at Barnes, on April 29th, which is confidently expected to muster 300 or 400 riders ; the Hampton Court meet on May 20th, and a new Yorkshire meet at Bridlington, on May 29th — Whit Monday — on which day there are also meets at Leamington and Middlesboro'.

Black silk jockey caps are the fashionable chapeaux for this season, and as I am to a great extent responsible for that fact, I may as well say at once that to "Jockey" Woolnough is due the credit — or blame, as you happen to regard it — of the actual origination of the wearing of this style of headgear, the comfort of which struck me as rendering it deserving of adoption for road work, R. A. W. having restricted his use of it to the path. And nobody who has ever worn one of these caps, made of the exact size and shape to fit him, will deny its excellence as far as comfort is concerned, whilst appearances are all in favour of it. It even suits my cadaverous countenance (!), so it must be good ! For hot weather, a few invisible loops of thread can be sewn on the band, on which to hook a silk handkerchief or pug- garee cut to a suitable size, and furnished with dress-hooks, and thus armed, sunstroke can be defied.

A correspondent writes me from Australia that The Cyclist Xmas Number hugely delighted him, but it was rather rough of the cler

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who sent it to insufficiently pre-pay the postage, rendering him sub- ject to 4<3. deficiency and 6d. fine. He adds that civilisation is advancing in Melbourne to such an extent that bicycles can be purchased on the time-payment system already. " Advance Aus- tralia ! "

The Americans are still uneasy in their minds regarding the Surrey star's peculiarities, and appear to be no nearer an elucidation of the mystery than ever, for the sphinx speaketh not, and his club won't tell him. " There's no compulsion, only you must."

Returning to home matters, I must not forget that 294 wheelmen sat down to tea together at Buckhurst Hill, on All-Fools'-day, under the espionnage of the Diamond B.C., nearly 500 riders being present at the subsequent social. This shows that the fierce imprecations which the Nooze correspondents erewhile levelled at this club have not much detracted from its popularity ; and I am not surprised at it, for although I was one of the first — if not the very first — to animadvert upon the first social held by the " Lozenges," yet every- thing which has been advanced against these gatherings will apply equally well to the socials of scores of other clubs ; and I don't like to see a club snubbed because it is young, any more than I approve of kicking a man when he is down ; therefore it is gratifying to find that so many local clubmen and unattached riders were sensible enough to show the slight regard they had for the diatribes of the cough-drop-club's rivals, by rallying round them at the Roebuck.

Her Gracious Majesty Queen Victoria is to visit Epping Forest this month, and vast will be the crowds of East-end roughs who will infest the neighbourhood in consequence. But such considerations appear to have no effect upon some people, who propose to get up a big muster of wheelmen to swell the mob. I shall not be surprised at seeing, one of these days, a proposition that bicycle clubs should join in the Lord Mayor's Show, or " procesh" along Epsom race- course on a Derby day. The meet of wheelmen at Epping Forest on Queen's day, seems to be one of those projects doomed to as utter extinction as overtook the proposed midnight meet of bicyclists, with pretty lamps, on the nice asphalte at the Bank of England, last year.

This number commences the fifth volume of the "Wheel World," and subscribers might, I think, do more to make our magazine still more attractive than it has hitherto been. We, on the staff, do our best to produce a readable monthly, but our poor efforts cannot be expected to result in that everflowing stream of fresh and varied ideas, which can only be produced in perfection by the united thoughts of many minds. Our editors are always pleased to receive contributions for these pages, and if more subscribers would become occasional contributors by sending little anecdotes — either real or fictitious, so long as they are entertaining — others still would be

THE WHEEL WORLD. 13

encouraged to follow suit by sending in their contributions, and thus all would benefit by the co-operative system. I confess that my twelve months' articles have greatly fallen short of my expectations, and I am disappointed with the result of my work ; let others, then, come forward with new ideas and fresh styles, and nobody will more cheerfully occupy a back seat than " Axis."

CYCLING CELEBRITIES.

No. 8.— Mr. R. P. Hampton Roberts (Belsize B.C.). T is very certain that in bicycling as in everything else the steady worker, if he be also a man of ability, is bound eventually to come to the front. The subject of our sketch this month is one of the best known wheelmen in London, and he has made his name solely by ability, as his racing laurels are simply *«e7. It might not strike a stranger at first sight that " Hampton Roberts" — as he is invariably called — was anything above mediocrity, but one has only to converse with him for a few moments to learn that he is at once a clever man and one who is essentially a gentlemen, the je ne sais quoi being very apparent. The clear, terse style in which he tackles any subject he takes up in the bicycling press, and the pleasant, chatty, well informed manner in which he writes his tours, were what first brought Mr. Roberts into notice, but his power of club organization, as evidenced by the Belsize — one of the best managed clubs in the kingdom — has amply proved that he possesses the ability to practice as well as preach. Having a great love of travel, and, as a Civil Servant of the Crown, having also a fair amount of time to follow that bent, Mr. Roberts in the spring of 1877 was gradually forced into the belief that he could see more of the world by riding through it, and that at infinitely less labour and in quicker time than if he continued, as he had hitherto done, to travel on foot. His walkingtours had, nevertheless, extended into France, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, and Holland. He speedily, therefore, learned to ride, and for two years was one of the " great unattached." A desire for pleasant companionship on runs, however, led to his joining the Belsize in 1879, and so quickly was he there appreciated that in the same year he was elected honorary secretary and treasurer, posts which he has held ever since. Those who have had the pleasure of enjoying the hospitality of the Belsize, both at their annual dinner and their periodical model musical evenings, know how neatly their hon. sec. can turn his periods of speech, and also how much he regrets — or professes to — that his captain, Mr. W. E. Milner, has fallen from the high estate of a road rider into that of one of the best racers of the day. It must not be supposed, however, that the Belsize secretary does not really appreciate racing. We have heard him declare that bicycle racing is a splendid sport, and most exciting, forming as it does one of the

H

THE WHEEL WORLD.

many forms of manly sport for which Englishmen are famed, and through which they become famous. What he holds is, that road riding is the backbone of bicycling, and as such is worthy of first and chief support. Hitherto the wheel tours of Sergeant Roberts — for he finds time to serve in the C.S.R.V. — have been mainly in England, but last year he explored Normandy and part of Brittany, and this year hopes to " do" Picardy and the valley of the Loire. As a member of the B.U. Council, and as a B.T.C. Councillor, R(eally) P(ractical) H(ard) R(iding) Roberts, as some one wittily translated the initials of his name, is of course a most valuable man ; but it is not only in the council chamber that his influence is felt. He tries to induce a good tone amongst wheelmen socially. The Belsize musical evenings, to which we have before alluded, have given those who love good music an opportunity of enjoying such as guests of the club, and with a certainty that the songs selected will be " all right." It was only to be expected, of course, that a cyclist with such a correct order of mind should have protested — though unavail- ingly in this instance — against the introduction into wheel vocabulary of " trike" and " bike," but he has sanctioned the use of the word " bus," as applied to a Sociable, probably in order to prove that there is no rule without an exception. If any one doubts the result of moral influence generally, let him tea with the A., or the B., or the C. Club when they are alone, and take a like meal when either of those societies meet for a joint tea with the Belsize B.C., and they will learn that men put their best foot forward when there is among their number Hampton Roberts.

A ' HOIV fRIENO WE WAY EXPECT TQ Se£ AT THE*r*lHET%'

THE WHEEL WORLD. 15

ALICE, A CYCLING BALLAD.

A GUSHER— WITH MORE RHYME THAN REASON- IN 10 SPASMS.

Fit 1 st. — The Preamble, He and She.

COME listen to a lay of love, The fortunes that befel A cyclist and his darling dove, A tricksy bonny belle.

He was a wheel enthusiast

Most ardent and sincere, And reckoned life in bright hours past

Which cycling joys endear. Hi's love of nature made the sport

A fount of pure delight ; The longest day was all too short

To taste its nectar bright. A short athletic figure his,

With features formed to please, His fair cheeks wooed the sun's warm kiss,

His curly locks the breeze.

She found in pleasure's luring trance

The devotee's reward — The thrill which the magnetic dance

Repays heartfelt regard.

And with its transports she combined

Flirtation's pretty play ; The whirling waltz her wiles entwined,

To dance with hearts away.

Fit 2nd. — "The Light Fantastic," &c

'Twas at a cycling ball they met,

And first impressions came Like sparks of vestal fire, and set

Alight to passion's flame. Two hearts in happy consonance,

Full as their feet were free, Joined in the ever joyous dance

With more than wonted glee. Hand linked in hand, gliding along,

In rhythm sped their feet ; The bright hues of the mazy throng

The harmony complete.

i6 THE WHEEL WORLD.

Right merrily the glad hours flew,

And chance assistance lent, The bonds which fascination drew

Attraction held intent. The ruby draught which wild hopes bring

Filled love's golden chalice, With little cupids whispering

The cherished name of Alice. The sigh that sympathy fain seeks

Within his heart arose, And glad tears dallied on his cheeks

That stole not from his nose.

The fairy revels of the dance

Which mortal hearts enthral, Allied to love's irradiance,

Enchantment lends a pall.

And he plunged in the limpid stream

Of transient delight, The rippling tide glowed with the beam

Which joy-filled eyes requite. Fit 3rd. — The Moth and the Flame. Oh, fingers fair can hearts ensnare

By pressure or caress, And eyes in eloquence declare

What tongues can ne'er express. They courted in the corridor,

And spooned upon the stairs, " Round dances " turned his head still more

Than flirting in the " squares." 'Twas Alice reigned his programme through,

It filled the second part ; It filled his brain, was doubtless too

Engraved upon his heart ! Line after line the charm occurred,

Dance after dance the same, Five letters formed the darling word

And spelt an angel's name. And old friends who came flocking round,

To seek their, wonted prize, No favour in her presence found

For flattery or sighs. On him alone her bright smile cast

Its captivating ray, Until the echoes of the last

Gay waltz had died away.

THE WHEEL WORLD. 17

They parted, but in his heart's tree

There nestled a sweet dove, And midst flirtation's leaves felt he

A tender budding love.

Fit 4th. — A Vision of Light. More graceful than a pendant flower,

That from a fragile spray In the soft wind's caressing power

Dances in fairy play.

The vernal freshness of life's prime,

Youth's winning charms bestow, Before the changing touch of time

Hath chilled its happy glow.

A joyous smile of purest light

Played on her faultless face, Fair as a pearly snow-clad height

In sunlit beauty traced.

With airy steps more winning still

That in the waltz excel, Link heart to heart, and lend a thrill

To music's moving spell.

She matched his wavy locks of jet

With laughing tresses fair, And beauty in her smile had set

Its dimpled favour rare.

Bright as a floret when the dew

Illumes its virgin charms, With witching eyes that listful grew

When art their spell disarms.

A voice that like the siren's song

Allured all hearts, but yet Not one of the admiring throng,

Espied the arch coquette.

Fit 5th. — A Distressing Case, and a Conundrum. A little absentmindedness

And eccentricity, Made it an easy thing to guess What his complaint must be.

His appetite went very small,

It sighed itself away, At night he could not sleep at all

And dreamt too much by day.

18 THE WHEEL WORLD.

He brushed his shirt front, and he wore

A gaiter for a glove, His sighs went lower than before,

His pulse went much above. His " Telegraph " was left unread,

He did not care for news, He put it in his tea instead —

Such acts must love excuse. And what is love ? p'rhaps school-girls know

Sometimes it is aesthetic, More often sordid, selfish, low,

And rarely sympathetic. Is it a power of source divine ?

Or a delusive smile ? The course that nature doth incline,

Or but an artful wile ? Exalting, or but commonplace ?

Heartfelt, or but humdrum ? Mere fancy for a pretty face(?) —

In fact it's a conundrum.

Fit 6th. — " On the Track." Do choice and circumstance combine

Such fondlings chance to meet ? Or destiny, or deep design,

Direct their devout feet ?

For oft they met by accident,

Until, just for a change, Their meetings were with full consent

As often pre-arranged. New life began to dawn, with gleam

Of oriental light — With all the rosy tints that stream

On love's horizon bright.

Young love is full of hopes and fears,

Bright dreams and brooding doubts, The vernal course of smiles and tears

Works its probation out. Purblind and credulous withal,

Too vain e'en to suspect The blandishments that most enthral

Or their design detect.

His wheels he left neglected lie

Until with soft finesse, She said she "long'd to ride a Tri.

Yes, really, truly, yes."

THE WHEEL WORLD. 19

Con amove ! He sealed the gage,

A double Tri. bespoke — To make a moonlight pilgrimage

Around the lovers' oak.

Fit 7TH. — " The Moonlight Manoeuvre."

The twilight deepened into night,

Its lulling softness fled, And Luna on the stellate height

A flood of glory shed. Along the road they gaily swung —

As sweetly sped the Tri., Love's music carolled on the tongue,

And pleasure filled the eye. Soon as they reached the arbor shrine

They duly set about The forms erotic that entwine

The souls of the devout. For seven times aroundthe oak

They rode in silence deep — The mystic rite lovers invoke

Their plighted troth to keep. Six times the favoured try sting place

Encircled they in light, — A dense dark cloud the bright moon's face

Then hid from mortal sight.

Depressing was the sombrous change,

Just as in sudden flight A spectral bat, weird, wild and strange, Burst on their startled sight.

Omen of dire significance,

The seventh darkened round Was ended by a rude mischance

Which threw them to the ground.

Fit 8th. — " Billing and Cooing."

The sighing wind, which through the tree

A cadence sweet awoke, With one low wail of misery

Its wistful vigil broke. A sudden shock, a shudder slight,

The gleaming stars above, A kneeling wooer claims the right

To swear undying love.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

The solemn scene ; the feeling tense Which passion's powers inspire,

Lent to his tongue the eloquence Of love's resistless fire.

And glowing words, and burning vows

In fervid earnestness, Won the requital that allows

Fond lips love's seal to press.

The brightest heaven hopes can paint

Such moments realise — Undimmed by doubt, or chill restraint,

He clasped his darling prize.

Affianced hearts with rapture fraught

In wild embrace long cling, — She trembled, for she little thought

Love such an awful thing.

Lost in a blissful trance was he,

In realms of joy untold, Until she quite impatiently

Complained, " I'm getting cold."

Fit qth. — "A 'Sociable' Nocturn." The chariot of love again

Renewed its nocturn chaste, Linked in a glowing golden chain ■ Their journey they retraced.

Gliding along, he more and more

Enjoyed his bright machine ; She hoped to reach her home before

The " stupid thing" was seen.

On, on, they rode, in silver sheen.

Never in life to part ; The tremor of excitement keen

Just fluttered her young heart.

And worlds of glory — orbs of light, Transpiercing boundless space,

In splendour canopied the night With heaven's dazzling grace.

He thought the star-gemmed sky displayed

No ray her eyes to match ; She feared perhaps she had not made

A really first-rate catch.

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He wond'ring, too, if very oft Such trips she would repeat ;

She thinking that a spoon so soft She easily might cheat.

He soared on love's bright gilded wings

Unto the seventh heaven ; Her bow had more than seven strings,

For she was " more than seven."

Fit ioth.— " The Finale." Most charming is the moonlight clear,

Delightful for a ride To single cyclist, but how dear

To lovers, side by side. Oh, he was lost in realms of love,

-Imagination's flight, Soaring in blissful heights above —

Forgot the steering quite. A shiver slight, a sense of pain,

Her heart quite timid grew, For thrice again, and yet again,

That bat against them flew.

Six times that harbinger of ill

Across their path had sped, Six times her heart had felt a chill,

Forboding something dread. The seventh time its weird wings shot

Upon their startled sight, A sullen cloud, like a foul blot,

Obscured the moon's fair light. A faint scream broke the calm night air,

The tricycle upset, — The Board of Works had set a snare,

Which holds its victims yet. Down, down the fatal hole they fell

And sank, 'midst young love's flush, That cyclist and his bonnie belle,

In seven feet of slush.

— "Aout."

Holloway's Ointment and Pills.— Coughs, Influenza.— The soothing properties of these medicaments render them well worthy of trial in all diseases of the respiratory organs. In common colds and influenza the Pills, taken internally, and the ointment rubbed over the chest and throat, are exceedingly efficacious. When influenza is epidemic, this treat- ment is the easiest, safest, and surest. Holloway's Pills purify the blood, remove all obstacles to its free circulation through the lungs, relieve the oveT-gorged air tubes, and render res- piration free without reducing the strength, irritating the nerves, or depressing the spirits; such are the ready mean3 of escaping from suffering when afflicted with colds, coughs, bronchitis, and other chest complaints, by which the health of so many is seriously and permanently injured in most countries.

*-wn<\t

THE WHEEL WORLD.

|f JOTTINGS FROM TOE IEMLD TSLE

>.#fe

£X

Never did Ballynafeigh present a gayer or more delightful appear- ance than on Saturday and Monday, the 8th and ioth ult., when about ten thousand people assembled each day to witness the annual sports of the Ulster Cricket Club. The weather was truly splendid, and the track (grass) in beautiful order.

At each of the following sports bicycle races were included in the programme: — Drogheda F.C., 23rd May ; Queen's College, Belfast, 5th and 6th June ; Carbury (Co. Kildare) A.C., 8th June; Cork A.A.C., 13th and 14th June ; and Limerick A. A. and Bi.C, 15th June.

Metropolitan B.C. management : — President, A. Whittaker » capt., J. Berry; sub-capt., G. Whittaker; hon. sec. and treas.' G. Carolan ; R. Berry, M. Mulhall, and J. Hopkins.

What Dublin cyclers would like to see : — The Fifty Miles Road Championship of Ireland run for, at least, a month earlier than usual. Another and shorter course in the Phoenix Park decided on. Lansdowne Road let on more advantageous terms for race meet- ings. Intending competitors for races held in Lansdowne Road allowed to practise on the course. The General Irish Bicycle Meet brought to a more successful issue in 1882.

Some soft-brained cycling youths are doing their utmost to bring bicycles under the cognomen of " nuisances," by racing on the asphalt up and down Grafton Street, every evening.

Club runs on Sundays are hardly "the thing ;" nevertheless a cer- tain club, which for the present shall be nameless, carry out such — at least all the members start off together every Sunday, wearing the badge.

The following were the Easter runs of the various clubs: — Good Friday : The Dublin University to Larne, via Belfast ; Irish Cham- pion to Glendalough ; Eglinton to Delgany ; Phoenix, Richmond, and Atlas to Maynooth ; Metropolitan to Greystones. Easter

THE WHEEL WORLD. 23

Monday : Dublin University to Lough Bray ; Eglinton to Glen of the Downs, via the Scalp ; Metropolitan to Lucan, Atlas to Ennis- kerry ; and Eblana to Delgany.

In conformity with a circular which was sent to the Irish B.C.'s, inviting each club to send two delegates to a meeting to be held in the Wicklow Hotel (B.T.C.), Wicklow Street, on Saturday, the 15th ult., for the purpose of forming an " Irish Bicycling Association." The following (Dublin) clubs were represented, viz. : — J. H. Craig, R. Wright, and A. J. Boyd, I.C.B.C. ; R. Johnston and H. M. Wright, D.U.B.C. ; R. Clifton and R. Merry, Phcenix B.C. ; E. Walker and J. Carpenter, Leinster B.C. ; E. Carolin and A. Whittaker, Metropolitan B.C. The Eglinton and provincial clubs were conspicuous by their absence. Mr. J. H. Craig took the chair. No less than 50 rules were submitted, the majority of which were provisionally approved of. R. Johnston, 28 T.C.D., was elected hon. treas ; and J. H. Craig, 41, Dame Street, hon. sec.

Ulster Cricket Club Sports, Ormeau Road, Belfast, Saturday, 8th April : —

One Mile Handicap (Confined to residents in the province of Ulster). — Final Heat : J. R. Fullerton, Glenarm, 50 yds (1) ; F. Hunter, A.F.C., scratch (2) ; W. M. Woodside, scratch (3). Time, 4m. 47s.

Two Miles.— C. A. Palmer (1) ; T. Lamb (2). Time, 8m. 7|s.

Three Miles Handicap. — C. A. Palmer, Birmingham (1) ; T. Lamb, Edinburgh (2) ; F. Hunter (3). Time 11m. 50§s.

Monday, 10th : One Mile Handicap. — T. Lamb, 50 yds (1) ; J. Bell, Greenisland, 150 (2) ; J. Larton (o). Won easily by three yards. Time, 3m. 33s.

Four Miles Handicap. — C. A. Palmer, scratch (1) ; T. Lamb, 190 yds (2) ; W. Woodside, 200 (3). Time, 15m. 34s.

Two Miles Handicap. — T. Lamb, 100 yds (1) ; D. A. Gibson, 210 (2) ; W. Woodside, 210 (3). Won easily by 5 yds, same between 2nd and 3rd. Time, 7m. 15s.

" Athcliath."

AN AMERICAN HUMOURIST CN BICYCLING.

HE bicycle is not the easiest thing in the world to ride. It is about as difficult to master as the trick-mule of a travelling circus, and there is no denying the fact that it throws you as hard and with as much precision. But then it looks there is a charming simplicity about the whole thing that satisfies you it is merely a matter of trying. It is more deceptive than the circus mule, for the latter erects his ears, whisks his tail, and backs around, while his eyes are full of subtle meaning. The bicycle, being barren of psychologic power, is incapable of inspiring you with the same suspicion and dread.

So you step out on the floor, and attempt to get on the machine. After you have tried once, you come to the conclusion that it would be far easier to get on the Retired List of the U.S. Navy. Then the pro-

24 THE WHEEL WORLD.

feasor comes along, and holds the spine of the machiue while you get into the saddle and start. As soon as he lets go, the wheels commence to move in a serpentine manner, and, after they have been acting in this way for about three-quarters of a second, you do the great mil- lennium act — you lie down with them — lie down so hard that you fancy the floor came half way up to meet you and make it solid. Then you calmly draw up one of the legs of your trousers to ascertain whether you have lost an inch or a yard of skin off your shins. It is generally a yard.

After you are in position again, with your face covered with blood and dust, and not enough breath in you to admit of your expressing your feelings properly, the professor tries to soothe you by saying that when he learned he had twenty falls a minute ! and almost broke his neck. This is said to convince you that you are making great progress ; but it really fills you with alarm. By this time you are at the corner of the room, about to make a turn. The machine lurches a little, and you begin to wish you were off it. You do not wish in vain; your prayer is answered on 'he spot. But you don't fall sideways this time, the bicycle gives you variety. This time you sail over the handles, as though anxious to bite a plank out of the floor, and land on your back with the whole business in your arms. Then you wonder where the fun comes in. You come to the conclusion that there is no fun at a 11 in bicycling: but there is, though, just the same, only you don't know how to findjit. But the boys over in the corner, who have been through the mill themselves, see it all as plain as day, and they do their best to keep still when you rise from the floor, and pick your suspenders out of your hair, and your plug hat off your left foot.

When you get aboard again, you are boiling from every pore, and your throat feels as dry as though you had just been eating unbeaten carpet. And ho ! how you yearn for your time to expire, and wonder what in the world induced you to try such a wild thing — a thing offer- ing lots of danger and no pecuniary reward. And you do not feel a bit better when your assistant informs you that in two weeks you will be able to fly down steep hills, with your legs hanging languidly over your ears. When your time is up, your soul is rilled with balmy pictures of peace and happiness, and you promise faithfully to be on hand for a lesson the next day ; and then, when you arrive at the desk of the cashier, that individual says : — " How long were you on the floor ?" "Fifty-five minutes," you reply. " Then you have five minutes more."

"No," you respond, " I was on the bicycle the other five minutes." And then you leave, vowing that the next time you want to fall on the floor and wallow in the dust like a midsummer hen becalmed under a currant bush, you will do it right at home in the kitchen, and you conclude to let your children look on, so that if you come to grief and they laugh, you can take the edge off your grief and be made com- paratively happy by paddling them around with a clothes-pole. — K.E.M., in Puck, March 22, 1882.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

Never ha s there been a better Easter for touring1, and never ha\ & there been more wheelmen on the road than this year. Almost every club of note, except tbe Temple, have carried, out a club tour, and individual clubmen, including T.B C. men, have been met everywhere in the home arid adjoining counties.

See what ftless, the captain of the " Pickwick fathers," says — "We had 18 membbrs and two friends. The road between Arundel and Southampton is a perfect racing path." All voted the tour the most enjoyable ever held.. No falling off in wheel enthusiasm, evidently.

The Liverpool Wanderers, to step countrywards some 200 miles, give an equally good account of their Easter trip to Llangollen, &c, and report the roads in North Wales as in " first-rate condition."

The Fallow Buck, at Clay Hill, near Enfield— not the Watford Clay Hill — is recommended by the Belsize, who know " what's what" as one of " those comfortable old inns only to be found off the main roads."

The Diamond opening lun, tea, and '"' social" at the Roebuck* Buckhurst Hill, Essex, was attended by no less than 500 riders* which speaks volumes for the energy of Bruce Dezille, and his club hon. sec, W. E. Ranger.

The City of London B.C., despite being now divided into divisions, continue to get fair musters, though the district system must perforce do away with those fine turn-outs we were used to last season.

The Kennington Rovers, South Shields, and Liverpool Wanderers B.C.'s are amongst those who have come into the Union fold during the past month. Good luck to them.

" Ching, of Ockham," makes riders so comfortable at his new place, the Grove Hotel, Doublo Gates, Merton, that we read of the Overton and Comet, who had been teaing at Ewell, halting on their return journey and holding " a very enjoyable social " at " Ching's Grove."

The Clarence and Kildares have not forgotten Ham Common, as the whisper was heard at the New Inn there last month, after their club races. The Regents looked in during the evening, just to say, "how-do?"

26 THE WHEEL WORLD.

From Ham, we turn to Ashton-under-Lyne, and find that April saw the opening run of this local B.C., who turned out 18 bicyclists and 2 tricyclists for Cheadle. Not bad this for Lancashire loads. Cheadle, however, is in Cheshire, where surfaces are a little better.

The following clubs have now got "busses": — the Belsize, Clapham Park, Stanley, Finchley T.C., London T.C., Atalanta. Lewisham and Metropolitan ; and the Minerva have thoughts of starting one. '

The Essex clubs always seem to be at loggerheads. The dispute which was on last year as to who should call the monster meet of county tricyclists is again on the tapis. The number of small clubs who amalgamated last year into one large association, under the title of the Essex B. and T.C., think they should do so ; but the West Essex who " hang out " at Chelmsford, say " No ! we are the county club, and our ' Cook ' will take the feast in hand."

The Harehills Club, of Leeds, paid a visit to Studleigh Park and Fountains Abbey on Easter Monday, and found them in a very different atmospheric condition from the day on which the " damp " London B.T.C. malcontents visited them from Harrogate, in 1880, What a day it was !

The Borough of Portsmouth B.C., who possess the neatest badge to our mind of any club in the kingdom, now number 110 members.

Mr. J. W. Sharpe, hon. sec. of the Croydon, and Captain Thomas, of the Great Grimsby, have both been "testimonialized " during the past month. Sharpe retires, and got a certificate on vellum; Thomas, who still " sticks to it," got a clock.

The number of " Cyclists' Pests " about is getting confusing ; we have one near Peading ; another near Hatfield ; one at Epsom : and one at Iver, besides many, we dare say, of which we have no editorial cognizance.

Mr. Weaver, hon. sec. of the Isle of Wight B.C., warns all cyclists anent the " bye-laws " which compel lamps and bells to be carried in "the Island." It is, of course, very desirable that these articles should be carried on every bi. and every tri., but the Highways Amendment Act of 1878 specialy exempted the Isle of Wight.

Cheap inns recommended by riders are the Rose and Crown, Riddles- down ; the New Inn at Windsor, the Rose at Bedford, the Crest at Essendon, all the " Cyclists' Rests," and the Wagon and Horses at Ridge Hill.

The 'lemple turned out 84 men for their opening run to the Dog and Fox at Wimbledon, including several tricyclists.

The Brighton Meet on Easter Monday was attended by about 300 riders. The local papers do not speak highly of the success of the procession, owing to a block and numerous falls. Nothing of this was due, however, to the Committee of Management, who, with Mr A. H. Quick as hon. sec, made very good arrangements.

THE WHEEL WORLD.

27

NOTES OF A CRUISE ON WHEELS IN NORMANDY

By C. E. Oliver, Derby B.C. (Concluded from page 242.)

Caen, Sept. 14. — We started from Bernay at an early hour, and speedily got over the eight miles to Thiberville ; a mile beyond we gain the main road from Evreux to Caen, and shortly after leave the Department of Eure for that of Calvados. There is little to chronicle on the road to Lisieux ; we had a splendid run down into the town by a winding descent, which, however, required caution and a frequent application of the brake. Pleased with the aspect of this place we parted from our wheels for the inevitable dejeuner and cathedral, which latter attraction has a very fine tower ; inside we noticed an unusual and very large carved oak calvary and altar combined. From Lisieux we had a straight and rather flat road, but as we neared Caen the country fell away in front, and we had to carefully negotiate several Avernus-like descents. At a lane end we came upon a piquet of soldiers, and then a small encampment, where the men were lying about on the ground, their uniforms making picturesque patches against the green grass ; soon after- wards a detachment appeared on the road, the rear brought up by several stragglers in twos and threes, some nearly a mile away from the main body. Having responded to the invitation held out on the sign-board of an atiberge, we were discussing some cheese, cider and fruit, when an Englishman entered, with whom we had a long chat about the country, in which he had been residing for some years. We entered the city of Caen, the capital of the department, about a couple of hours before dinner, and utilised the time, after dressing, in looking over the church of St. Jean and the far famed and elegant structure dedicated to St. Pierre, which gave the inspiration to some of Prout's best pictures ; the rest of the evening was devoted to letter writing. (52 miles.)

Trouville, Sept. 15. — At Caen there is quite a collection of magnificent churches full of interesting characteristics, and we found much that was entirely new and striking to engage our attention.

28 THE WHEEL WORLD.

We were about early, and walked up the hill to the so-called Abbaye aux Dames, dedicated to St. Giles. It has a large, walled convent attached, and, like the Abbaye aux Horames, is built in the Romanesque style of architecture. They are both splendid churches, and kept very clean. We threaded a labyrinth of narrow streets in order to reach the latter church, and noticed that some of the older houses display antique gables and gateways enriched with very old carved stonework, sometimes being provided with a niche containing a Virgin and Child. Wt'liad not encumbered ourselves with guide- books, but were able to find our way by the two sister spires, which are seen from time to time over the tall roofs. This church was built by William the conqueror, and a marble slab in the choir marks his last resting place. Whilst in a shop, purchasing some views, we were aroused by the fanfare of trumpets, which, as we discovered, proceeded from a long column of troops entering the city. It was a stirring sight as they came down the slanting street, and wound round the base of a time-worn and crumbling old church opposite us. Each company was preceded by six trumpeters, in two sections, who played a sort of march. The men were scarcely of the middle size, and swung along at a quick pace, generally out of step, and each marching in his own fashion. We were making our way back to the hotel (Hotel d' Espagne) in order to renew our journey (thinking that six churches, not to mention other interesting build- ings, were sufficient to occupy ourselves with in one town), when we were forcibly reminded of the words of Portia, " Tarry a little, there is something else," for at the corner of a square we came across still another solemn relic of consecrated building, this time, however, almost in ruins, and, as it proved, one of the most ancient and interesting remains in Caen. A guide appeared with the keys, and showed us the interior ; but the Sanitary Authority of the city have almost dispelled the charm of this noble relic of the past by using it as a depot for all kinds of implements, foreign to ecclesiastical requirements and the chancel is heaped up with barrows, spades, and brooms, enough to horrify the mind of even the most apathetic archaeologist. Fragments of the roof, the cornices and mouldings of the windows, are scattered on the ground, half concealed by grass and " the mossy vest of time." The flamboyant tracery of the arch of one of the side porches is very fine work, and in good preservation; the greater portion of the building is in a state of desolation and decay (although not past redemption), and there is a solemn air of antiquity about the place that impresses the mind with mingled feelings of awe and curiosity. It is called St. Stephen the Old, and its erection was completed by William the Conqueror.

" Now stained with dews, with cobwebs darkly hung,

Oft has its roof with peals of rapture rung."

Like Lichfield Cathedral and other English churches, the nave inclines to the left, in imitation of the Figure on the Cross, but so much so, that the right hand corner of the chancel cannot be seen

THE WHEEL WORLD. 29

from the chief entrance. We took leave of Caen about mid-day, and turned in the direction of the coast ; at the top of a hill we gave a last look at the turrets and towers of the city in the hollow below ; the day was very fine, the bluest of skies was overhead, and we had a most exhilarating ride to Trouville. At Varaville, twelve miles from Caen, four roads, or rather lanes, meet ; and, set back from the road, is a cosy auberge, half farm, half inn. In the space before the house, under a bower of overhanging trees, a merry party of ladies and gentlemen were breakfasting; and as there was a vacant table, we seated ourselves under the green canopy, and lunched, alfresco, on small flat Pont l'Eveque cheeses, plums and pears, washed down with a bottle of cidre mousseax. After a digestive pipe, we removed our machines from the clump of trees where they had rested, and pursued a narrow winding road that proved a welcome relief from those which we had experienced the previous day, interest ever arising as to what would come next in view, or whither the next turn would bring us. At one twist of the road we landed abruptly into the midst of a herd of cattle driven by two or three women, and were indignantly pursued by a " monarch of the meadows," who never- theless soon gave up, evidently convinced of the proverbial truth, "a stern chase is a long chase." Presently we reached the coast, and rode through Cabourg and Dives, the latter a pretty little water- ing place nicely situated in a sandy bay. From hence we had a charming ride by the sea, and finally reached fashionable Trouville : we cast anchor at the Hotel du Plat d'Or, and hurried to the beach for a bathe. The water deepens gradually , and exactly suits the visitors, who lounge in the element rather than bathe, and chat with the ladies, who wear very pretty bathing costumes and splash about in the sea like so many mermaids. Trouville consists of a little fishing village and port to the West : on the East are the sands, the Casino, and a large number of elegant bathing villas and chalets built amongst the trees which cover the slope overlooking the sea : besides these, there is little else to notice exeept a few handsome and rather dear hotels. The sand being soft and knee deep, the authorities have constructed walks leading in different directions, and a prome- nade consisting of long planks bolted together, and designated by a modern authoress " The Treadmill of Fashion." (27 miles.)

Fecamp, Sept. 16. — A misty morning gave promise of another fine day. We trundled along a hilly road to Honfleur-by-Villerville, which is a prettier place than Trouville, and gained some beautiful views of hill and glen on the way. Just outside Honfleur, a large stone cross is situated on a grassy promontory by the sea, and the spot looked so inviting that we halted and rested a long time on the steps. The sea was still enveloped in a thick mist, which now and then lifted, showing the brown sails of the fishing cobles making for Honfleur ; but after a while, the sun warmed the grey fog, illumining it with a golden glow, and finally dissipating it entirely. Then, across the sea, we could make out the city of Havre, the smoke of

3o THE WHEEL WORLD.

the first steamer leaving the harbour, and the white wings of the sea-gulls as they gleamed in the sunlight — a charming picture ! Near the cross, upon whose steps we reclined, a rushing stream tumbles over the rocks, and from its waters we obtained a welcome drink by means of the telescope cup, which, by-the-bye, we found very useful during the tour. We entered the pretty port of Honfleur, our heads nearly touching the antiquated lamps, which (as in other towns we passed through,) hang suspended across the street by a rope ; and took the boat across to Havre, about half-an-hour's jour- ney ( fare, half-a-franc each, and machines one franc each). The large city, with its fortifications and houses rising out of the sea, the forest of masts in the harbour, and the green hill in the background, make a perfect picture. On the pier we were surrounded by a small mob : disentangling ourselves, we passed through several handsome streets and boulevards. The Hotel de Ville is a fine building, in front of which there is a large garden and ground?, with seats under the trees, and open to the public. At one o'clock we were once more en route, and reached Harfleur, the town once besieged by Henry V. The church is

" A pious structure fair to see." We did not, however, stop to inspect it, but held on our way by a road sufficiently lonely to satisfy the most misanthropic lover of solitude, until we came to Goderville ( a quiet and retired place), where the ravenous state of our appetites caused a dismount. Hun- ger appeased, and once more in the saddle, a strong wind at our backs gave wings to our steeds, and we speedily despatched the eight miles to Fecamp, a town situated in a deep hollow overhung by a mountainous ridge on the East. A lighthouse is placed on the spur of the hill, which juts into the sea. Here we slept at a quiet hostelry ( 3, Place St. Etienne), opposite a poor looking church, whose chief ornament seemed to be a discordant, cracked bell. ( 36 miles.)

Newhaven, Sept. 17. — At Fecamp the charge for dinner, bed, and breakfast was ten francs, or 8s. 4d. for two, which we thought remarkably cheap. Leaving our lodgings and passing over a swing-bridge near the station, we ascended the steep ridge on the East side of the town : the road wound about like an Alpine pass, and was so splendidly engineered that we were able to ride the two miles to the top with ease. Here an up-and-down road with a very good surface presented itself, and we met a number of carts, mostly driven by women, going to Fecamp market : bicyclists being strange animals in these parts, some of the horses did not seem to relish our presence, but a word or two seemed to convince them of our humanity, and always soothed them ; as for the drivers, they did not trouble themselves about the nervousness of their horses, but gave us a musical Bon jour, messieurs ! as we went by. We ran through some deep woods into St. Valery, and stopped there for breakfast and a look round. This miniature bathing village is built in a sort of

THE WHEEL WORLD.

3i

fissure in the hills, and we could scarcely find the small strip of land which does duty for a " beach." At twelve o'clock, we once more got on the road for Dieppe, where we arrived about two hours before the boat's time for starting for Newhaven. (40 miles.) Here, as in Paris, we saw women engaged in the not very feminine occupation of street cleansing. At two o'clock we steamed out of the harbour on board the same boat that we arrived in, and once more, the weather and sea being calm, we felt but little of

" The tremblings of the immeasureable ocean." Night had fallen when we neared the English coast, which was de- fined by twinkling lights all the way from Newhaven down to where, in the West, a brightly illuminated spot indicated the position of Brighton, and at eight o'clock we again set foot on land. Newhaven is a small port with a few shops and two good sized inns. Of the many passengers that arrive by boat, scarcely any remain in the town, the train which awaits each boat near the pier taking them straight away to London. ' We, however, being independent of trains, remained all night. The next day, we left the Ship Hotel, Newhaven, and soon accomplished the nine miles by the coast road to Brighton, where we stayed until the following morning, when we were once more en route, and rode through the Sussex " Hursts," en- countering several " stiff " hills, especially the one at Reigate, where (as most cyclists know) a fine stretch of country can be seen. Then on and on, across Banstead Common and through Sutton, threading a few intricate lanes, and finally dismounting at Wandsworth (50 miles), where our " Cruise on Wheels " practically came to end, as we stopped in London two or three days sight-seeing, and there separated, having ridden 216 miles in England, and 402 in France.

Note. — The Normandy roads, except in one or two places men- tioned above, are perfection. Our machines, a 56m. Humber and 56m. 'Xtraordinary, exhibited no vagaries and gave every satisfaction. We used M.I.P. bags, and Clare's handle bags for our luggage ; the straps on the latter gaveway after a few miles r wear.

Our daily experience of the hotels and fare, was somewhat as follows : — A little before the usual hour for dining (7 o'clock), we rode into the town fixed on by us for the night's sojourn, and, select- ing an hotel from the list culled from numerous tours chronicled in the cycling press and elsewhere, we interviewed the polite proprietor as to terms, which were always satisfactory. Having stabled our machines, we are shown our rooms, usually furnished in a meagre manner, and with the carpet missing, which tempts one to use the capacious, swansdown cushion which crowns the counterpane of the comfort- able bed, as a protection against the cold plaster of the floor ; soap, candles, and water, appear to be scarce commodities ; the toilet service is in miniature,, the water jug resembling a cream ewer in size. Dressing over, we descend to the well set-out table d' hote \,

32 THE WHEEL WORLD.

at the right hand of each person is placed a large carafe of yellow cider, and a black bottle of vin ordinaire (both fresh) ; the latter is a kind of thin rough claret, very palatable after a long ride ; a superior wine is obtainable for a franc and a-half. Bock, very good beer, is also to be had at most hotels and cafes. To the cyclist visiting the country for the first time, and accustomed to ordinary English fare, a dinner a la Francais such as is served up daily at the hotels, will appear somewhat strange. The following is a brief list in order of the dishes placed before us, at the Hotel du Commerce, Rouen : — Soup, roast mutton and carrots, fish, roast duck and turnips, French beans dressed with oil, roast veal with lettuce also oiled, cheese and dessert ; finger biscuits are rarely absent from t he tables ; bread utterly usurps the place of potatoes, which seem to be as scarce as in Raleigh's time ; they were entirely absent from the above repast, and we only met with them once during our stay. As previously remarked, one knife and fork are considered sufficient for one meal, but we speedily learnt the wrinkle of wiping them on the bread. The latter is baked in all sorts of fantastic shapes, but chiefly in lengths, and is very light. Before leaving our quarters in the morn- ing, we usually obtained a preliminary breakfast of chocolate, bread, butter, and eggs. For this accommodation, viz., dinner, bed, and breakfast, the average sum we paid was 7J francs each — very reasonable. Dejeuner, ready at all hotels at eleven o'clock, is almost as elaborate an affair as dinner ; fruit forms a prominent item, and at the time of our visit was especially plentiful and cheap, the peaches and pears were particularly fine and large.

We were agreeably suprised to find that gratuities to waiters, and «■' tips " — those bores of the English tourist — are as unknown as they are unexpected.

>*-*

THE WHEEL IN BARBADOS.

Report of the Hon. Secretary of the Barbados Bicycle Club on the working of the Club during the year 1881 — 82.

The Barbados Bicycle Club having been now one year in exist- ence, it becomes my very pleasing duty to make my first annual report on the working of the club during that year. The past year has been a most unfavourable one in many respects, and if our club has not made more marked progress, it is owing to no lack of energy on the part of its members, but to the unfavourable operation of events over which we have no control. I refer (1) to the heavy rains in June, which prevented the usual club runs ; (2), the recent epidemic of yellow fever, which completely suspended our operations ; and (3), our captain's recent affliction, which precluded him from taking any lively interest in club matters for some time.

In consequence of such unfavourable circumstances, club opera- tions have not been very extensive during the past year, and mv

THE WHEEL WORLD. 33

report will not, therefore, be very elaborate ; but I will still endeavour to show that, in the face of all drawbacks, the institution has prospered and the sport in general along with it.

The increase in the actual strength of the club is quite satisfactory. At this time last year, our number was ten, all told ; at the close of the year we number 18. Four resignations have been accepted this week by the council, but on the other hand, 13 new members will be ballotted for to-day, showing an increase of nine at the very com- mencement of the year ; and I confidently anticipate that in the year now entered upon, we shall double our present numbers.

As for the increasing prosperity in the colony, of cycling in general, let the following facts speak for themselves : — When the club was started, there was 11 machines in use in the island, all bicycles. There are now, so far as I can ascertain, 24; 18 bicycles, 4 tricycles, and 2 " Ottos." Besides these, I know of twelve machines now on order, all of which may be expected to be here in the course of another month or two, which will swell the number to 36.

There are other proofs of a decided impetus given to the sport by the formation of our club. When the club was started, not one of our enterprising merchants imported machines as a regular practice, and necessary " sundries " were absolutely unobtainable. But nous avons change tout cela. I am now aware of four firms who import machines, and of two who are steadily going in for importing sun- dries in the wheel line. Then the advantages of the tricycle have been so prominently put forward, that I understand the Government intends importing a few for police use, thus setting an example to other colonies, which they will not, I think, be slow in following. In several of the English cities, as members are no doubt aware, tricycles are used both by postmen and policemen, with marked success, and I venture to predict a glorious future, in this respect, for the three wheeler.

What I may call the third effect of the formation of the club is very gratifying. A bicycle club has been started in Georgetown, British Guiana, under the name of the " Georgetown Bicycle Club" ; and in replying to a congratulatory letter from our captain, Mr. John McConnell, the energetic founder and present captain of that club, states, " I may mention that it was only from seeing in a Barbados newspaper, that a club had been formed there, that the idea struck me to do likewise here." We wish the new club every success.

At this point it may not be out of place to refer to the appointment of our captain as Consul at Barbados for that monster institution, the Bicycle Touring Club. There are four members of the B.T.C. now in the colony, and two more applicants for admission. The time is not far distant, I hope, when English cyclists, who now tour on the Continent, will try a trip to the West Indies instead, and the appointment of a B.T.C. Consul at this colony is the first step in

34 THE WHEEL WORLD.

that direction. I have been asked by the captain to take this oppor- tunity of impressing on members the many advantages to be derived from joining the B.T.C., and to express the hope that every member oi the club will ask for admission this year.

And now I come to the actual work of the club during the year. We have had 20 club runs, averaging six miles each, and so far as I could find out, members have always enjoyed them immensely. The other club events have been : — (1) A dinner to the late Mr. Cecil H. E. Holder, Consul B.T.C., and Captain Trinidad B.C. ; (2) a meet at Government House, where, with the kind permission of His Excellency the Governor, the club was photographed ; and (3) a picnic given to the club on the 4th February at the South Point Lighthouse, by His Excellency the Governor. These events were all successful in the highest degree. Members will join with me in praise of the excellent dinner at the Ice Establishment on the 26th April, 1881, which has always been spoken of as the most successful thing of the sort for the season. The best way of describing the photographic meet is to say that the picture, which was taken by Mr. A. S. Taylor, is perfect. I need not expatiate on the pleasures of the picnic at South Point — the event is yet fresh in our memory. It will suffice to say that the club was treated with His Excellency's well-known hospitality, and that the expressions of satisfaction were unanimous. I must not omit to record that the club on two of the runs were entertained, first at Government House by our generous President, and then at " Bradfield " by Mr. Vice-President Jones ; and that on both occasions their reception and treatment were worthy of our hosts. In fact the support and countenance given to the club by its presiding officers have been most complete and encouraging.

I cannot conclude my report without referring to the great loss sus- tained by the club, and by the cause of cycling in general, in the death of our late friend and club fellow, Mr. Cecil H. E. Holder. During the short time he was with us, he was universally liked, and his most untimely death is as universally regretted.

In the hope that members will kindly excuse any shortcomings in this my first report, I will conclude by wishing them and the club a happy and prosperous year.

nth March, 1882. C. G. West, Hon. Sec.

Adopted at the annual general meeting of B.B.C., on nth March, 1882. Edward Drayton, Captain.

^£S)j^ .

THE WHEEL WORLD. 35

A CLUB-ROOM CONVERSATION.

(Scene : The Reading Room of the Dirthampton Cyclists' Society. Smith, Brown, and Jones discovered sitting round the fire.)

Smith : Have you seen the papers this week, Jones ?

Jones : Not I ! I have given up reading them, and buying them, for some time. They are worth neither the time nor the money, in my opinion.

Smith : What ! Waste of time to devote a few hours weekly to the perusal of the latest events in the world of wheels ? Did you ever hear such an outrageous remark as that, Brown ?

Brown : Well, I certainly do not altogether agree with Jones. I like to have a look at the papers, especially the magazines, but I never give up two or three hours a week to that sort of thing.

Smith : I always read them through from beginning to end, for I think they are just splendid. But I thought you were so fond of bicycling, Jones ?

Jones : So I am ; but it does not necessarily follow that, because I can enjoy a ride into the country as much as you, I should ex- perience a spasm of delight every publishing day.

Brown : How many of them do you take, Smith ?

Smith : A good many. Let me see, of the weeklies I take three English, one French, one American, one Belgian, and one Scotch. Of monthlies I have two English, one American, one German, and one Australian. Besides these, I see regularly three athletic papers that devote a portion of their space to cycling items ; and, of course, I buy all the separate publications and Christmas numbers.

Jones : And do you mean to tell me that you read every one of them ?

Smith : Every one, my boy.

Jones : Then all I have got to say is — you are a fool ! Why, you must pass nearly every evening of your life in perusing this rubbish !

Smith : I do, and I am not ashamed of it. It is a harmless and very enjoyable way of spending my leisure hours.

Jones : I call it a wicked waste of valuable time. What good does it do you ? Do you feel any better for it ? I do not believe you can point out one solitary instance of advantage gained by such a course of reading.

Smith : I could give you dozens, only it would be mere waste of time to tell them to you, prejudiced creature that you are ! I expect the reason of all this spite lies in the fact that you have sent a story, or the account of a tour, to one of them, and instead of appearing in black and white, it sought the seclusion of the editor's waste- paper basket.

Jones : I never did anything of the kind. I trust I have not sunk quite as low as that.

36 THE WHEEL WORLD.

Brown : You two fellows are really dreadful. Why don't you follow my good example, and go in for a happy medium. I take only one or two papers, and do not even read the whole of those. I find much interesting matter, which I digest, and much rubbish, which I pass by with a glance. You, Jones, would pick up some useful ideas if you did likewise, and you, Smith, would write better — I know your nom de plume, but you need not blush — if you read less cycling " literature," and more of our English Classics.

Smith : I do read all manner of things — when I have time.

Jones : Just so ! But I will illustrate my meaning. Hand over that copy of the Whirligig, old boy. Thank you ! Now, what do I find ? First of all there are five or six pages of advertisements, but I do not complain of those, as every paper has them.

Smith ; And very useful they are, and at times quite interesting.

Brown : I never found them very exhilarating.

Jones : The illustrations are so good, also, are they not, especially those of the lady tricyclists ? Next comes a whole page of Fixtures ; you cannot get much solid matter for digestion out of that, Smith, I should imagine.

Smith : Most useful, I assure you. For example, suppose I settle at the beginning of the week that I will ride, if the weather be fine, to Coventry on the following Saturday. I get my paper on Wednes- day, and see, from the list of Fixtures, that the Dashabout B.C. are going there on the same day as myself ; so, not being fond of those worthy gentlemen, I promptly change my plans, and go off some- where else.

Jones : And that occurs once — in three years ? And what about your boasted Brotherhood of the Wheel ? It seems to me that the only use of this page lies in the fact that it lessens the expenses of a club and the labour of the secretary, while, on the other hand, each individual member has to pay eight or nine shillings a-year on the paper, beyond his ordinary club subscription.

Smith : But it is the duty of every cyclist to buy one or other of the papers, whether he be clubman or unattached.

Jones : Then I cannot agree with you. It seems absurd to me that a man, because he happens to ride upon a wheel, should be forced to take an interest in the doings of every other individual who whirls up and down the length and breadth of England. Well, after the fixtures, there come two pages of club runs — the post-card literature of the sport. Interesting and instructive, eh ? It is so very nice to know that the members of the Dirthampton B.C. had tea last week at the Dog and Pint-Pot, South Mellington, and that When they had finished that festive meal, " a start was made for home, which was reached in due course, after a most enjoyable ride." One does so delight in reading such compositions once a week for three or four years' running ! And you have been doing so, Smith, I think you said ?

Smith : I like to know what the clubs are " up to."

THE WHEEL WORLD. 37

Brown : I must say that I side with Jones. The first three pages of the Whirligig are a blank, as far as I am concerned.

Jones : Next to the Runs are two columns of Racing Fixtures. These may be useful to racers, and those men who spend their Saturday afternoons in watching races ; but to the ordinary rider and reader they are as dull as the Runs and Run-Fixtures.

Smith : I always look through them. It is pleasant to see that there is plenty of energy and pluck in our clubs. A good secretary gets up a race-meeting as easily as he pays a bill, or shaves himself.

Brown : I have heard otherwise from some of them, and their language was generally forcible.

Jones : I can quite understand that. The next two columns are devoted to details of the handicaps of several clubs who have race- meetings at the end of the week. I suppose, Smith, it interests you to know that Snooks will start from scratch, and Teddy Nason from the sixty yards' mark.

Smith : I confess it does. I like to guess at the result, and am pleased if I " spot " the winner.

Jones : The next column is made up of short notices of two Club Concerts. I should imagine that the only people who peruse them are Robinson, who "sang 'The Tear' with great feeling," and Tomkins, who " convulsed the audience with his clever rendering of \ The Scamp.' " They will go so far as to cut out the paragraphs and gum them in a scrap-book filled with very scrappy criticisms.

Brown : A very natural proceeding on their part. You are rather unfair in some of your remarks, Jones.

Jones : I don't think I am. Here, now, is a scrap of useful information headed " Railway Rates," but it is followed by three letters about the Touring Club and a wretched little public-house. All three of them are of a length out of all proportion, when one con- siders what their subject is, and are mainly filled up with abuse of other writers.

Smith : I like to see the fellows pitching into one another. It's great fun ; only to thoroughly enjoy the correspondence you are now speaking of, you must go back three or four numbers, and read Fiery- land's first letter, in which he talks of B.T.C. "lunatics."

Jones : No, thank you ! I should prefer it, if they would settle the fate of the small public-house in private. Next we have an account of a tour, a page and a-half of it. Why, even the grammar of the thing is bad, and would disgrace a sixth-rate daily ! And the matter is dull, and the sentiment ordinary, and at times pot-housy.

Brown : But accounts of tours and trips are said to be the back- bone of cycling literature.

Jones : Then it is mostly a bent or broken one. What good do they do ?

Smith : They give a description of the state of the roads.

Jones : Useless. If I was thinking of riding to Mellington, I should not stop at home because Mr. A. found the road " rough in

38 THE WHEEL WORLD.

places," or Mr. B. " came a bad cropper over a nasty heap of stones."

Brown : But they give descriptions of scenery also, and tell us about pleasant places for spending our holidays in.

Jones : Not one out of a dozen does so. The painting of the scenery is generally common-place, or copied from a guide-book, and the chief place of interest on the road is nearly always an inn, which is pictured in glowing colours, down to the very barmaid.

Smith : Then, I suppose, if you had your own way you would banish accounts of tours for ever from the columns of the wheel press.

Jones : Certainly, unless they were written in a style considerably above the present samples, and contained a trifle more originality than one sees in them now-a-days. To proceed. Here is a man writes to complain of the way he has been treated on the road. It seems that certain riders would not meet his advances half-way, and steadily refused to be "chummy;" whereupon he calls them " stuck-up," and " cads in uniform," with various other choice epithets.

Smith : Quite right, too ! A rider should always stretch out a hand of fellowship to every other man who goes in for wheeling.

Jones : I cannot possibly agree with you. Because I chance to possess a bicycle, must I be " hail-fellow, well met," and all that kind of thing, with every other person who is fool enough to do as I do. It is just absurd. I ride out for enjoyment, and commonplace con- versation with people whom I never met before, and rarely want to meet again, is not my idea of bicycular happiness. If you were to go for a drive, Smith, you would not exchange platitudes with every one also sitting behind a horse whom you should happen upon.

Smith : Well, perhaps not.

Jones : Mind, I do not want you to think that I am desirous of doing away with the ordinary civilities of life. What I object to is the idea, held by many, that a total stranger, because he indulges in the same sport, should, as a matter of course, thrust himself upon you for a whole afternoon, or sometimes for a day, without hesitation.

Brown : But it is easy enough to show, by words or expression, that you do not wish for his company.

Jones : Not always, unless you are abominably rude ; and some men are so dense that even that has no effect.

Smith : I think it is decidedly jolly to pick up a companion when I am out for a solitary ride. It makes it so much more pleasant if one has a human being to talk with.

Jones : That may be your idea of a ride, but it isn't altogether mine. I like to look about me and see things, and hear other sounds besides the clack of a human tongue ; and, if you will not laugh at the expression, to fed nature.

Smith : That is a very pretty sentiment, no doubt ; but give me man before mountains, a good chorus before the songs of birds, and the smell of a friendly cigar before the scent of a cowslip field !

THE WHEEL WORLD. 39

Flowers, and birds, and trees are not so bad, but they are not like a jovial comrade.

Jones : Smith, you are a . I really cannot think of^an expres- sion bad enough for you.

Brown : It seems to me that in your review of the Whirligig you have left out altogether the two most important items. I referto the leader and the general notes.

Jones : I was coming to them. The leaders are nearly always fair, and, at times, very good ; though now and again they are the reverse of this. Many of the notes, too, are interesting and amusing ; others of them are stupid, or vulgar, or obscure.

Smith : I never found one stupid, and I have read hundreds of them. Also, what you are pleased to term " vulgarity " is, to my thinking, only a vigorous way of expressing sentiments about a vigorous sport.

Jones : You really are incorrigible, Smith. I suppose, then, you think the abominable words "jigger " and " bus " are pleasing to the eye when printed, being words full of subtle meaning and strength. You cannot pick up a wheel paper without coming across dozens of such terms.

Smith : I see nothing to object to in either of them. But, come now, you surely cannot find fault with the magazines. They, at least, have no " fixtures" or long columns of" club runs."

Jones : Well, I certainly have not so much to find fault with in them as in the weeklies, but on the other hand they have one which cannot be found in the latter ; and that one is to be met with in the numerous cycling stories. They have no long letters upon trivial subjects, which is a great advantage. They have no detailed accounts of club-dinners, socials, concerts, balls, or annual meetings. Racing matters are cut down as much as possible, and limited to big events. All this is as it should be. But the accounts of tours have much the same faults as those in the weeklies, and there is room for great improvement in that direction.

Brown : I should just think there was ! Why, I read, some months ago, an account of a holiday ride, which occupied quite two columns, and was altogether written in three sentences only. The jumble of the thing was somewhat fearful, as you can well imagine.

Jones : The chief fault I find in the magazine is the stories ; not because they are stories, but because they are all so much alike. Now and then a good one turns up, and great ingenuity is shown in its construction, but the great majority of them are monstrous to say the least. You know, before you have read six lines, that the hero will be married in the last sentence, and that he will marry a girl whom he has saved from some great danger by a daring exploit on his wheel ; or some fair creature at whose door he has had a bad accident, and who nurses him tenderly through the illness which

4o

THE WHEEL WORLD.

follows. On another occasion the hero either frustrates a large robbery, or saves the household of a burning mansion. But what- ever the story may be, the cyclist always comes out in glowing colours, and a wedding is always crammed in as a finale ; you must confess, Smith, that there is some monotony in this.

Smith : Not I. I think, considering the subject, that great diversity is shown by the writers, and no amount of talk on your part will shake my opinion. Just try and write a story yourself, and then you will find how difficult it is to find anything fresh to knock into shape.

, Jones : Thanks, I'll leave that to you. I think the papers would be somewhat improved, if the writers did not strive so hard to introduce the bicycle into every sentence. Let us have more general matter from time to time. I think that this continual repetition, often in the very same words, of stale thoughts and ideas about bicycling, is apt to make one rather disgusted with the sport. The stock-expressions which meet the eye in every other sentence, the common-place reiterations which crop up in every direction, will stunt the growth of our special press to a greater extent than you may now think, unless a remedy is forthcoming. The other day I read a sentence in a tale of bicycles and robbers, which showed so well what many writers think is the only way to interest and amuse their readers, that I cut it out. Here it is : — " Our hero had, therefore, a good deal of time to spend on his beloved wheel — he was, of course, a bicyclist, or our story has no point, and would be entirely devoid of interest." I never heard such an absurd sentiment ! Because a man takes an interest in wheel matters, must it naturally follow that he never craves for anything else ?

Smith : Certainly not, but in a paper which is devoted to cycling only, you must not expect

Brown: [Looking at his watch.) Pardon me for interrupting you, Smith, but if we are going to the theatre to-night, it is time we made a start.

They knock out their pipes, and exeunt.

" Bab Yardley."

-^^<r

THE WHEEL WORLD.

The racing season practically only opened in London this last month, and it is yet somewhat early to predict, with any chance of certainty, who is to be " the coming man " for 1882. Up to date, however, the provinces are "well in it," as, undoubtedly, C. A. Palmer is the best man who has raced this year ; that is, taking him on his public form. Although only running a dead heat with Griffith at the Oval, he was faster at the finish, and laboured under whatever disadvantages there may be in riding on a strange course, and amidst the only natural feeling of the large body of spectators present that their man, the Londoner, should win. Milner has perhaps of all the coming certainties shown worst, as he was obviously out of A 1 form at the Oval. Crute is in splendid con- dition, but still lacksjspurting power, and his only chance is to " kill" his adversaries by keeping up atop pace right through a scratch race. Cortis of course is a dark horse as yet, except as regards his past fame, but he certainly seems to have lost no power, and if any man can keep the championships in the " London stable" it will be the " long-un," as he is irreverently called. Dundas's good performance in the Surrey ten miles proves nothing, except that he is in fair condition after his almost endless winter dancing, because a heavy course suits him, and the pace was at no time sustained for any lengthened period. Amongst the coming men with starts are Wil- son of the Surrey, and J. S. Whatton of Cambridge University, but when Thompson of the Granville gets on his proper mark, we do not fancy that he will do much, though we shall be glad, for his sake, to find ourselves wrong. The 6th May at the Alexandra Palace will enable us to note, and report progress amongst the frequenters of gravel and cinders. "Scorchalong."

AMATEUR RACING RECORD FOR APRIL, 1882.

1st April. — Bristol (Stapleton Bridge Grounds). — Three miles handicap. — W. J*

Smith, Bristol, scratch (1) ; H. Melhuish, 280 yds (2) ; F. W. Brock, 210 (3).

No time taken. 7th, 8th, and 10th April. — Liverpool (Kensington Grounds). — One mile handicap.

— G. H. Ilston, Birmingham, 130 yds (1) ; C. W. Bayes, Anfield, 75 (2) ; L.

Watts, Old Boys, Liverpool, 90 (3). Time, 3m. 18s. — Quarter-mile handicap.

F. Evans, Birkenhead, 30 yds (1) ; E. J. Bayley, Liverpool Wanderers, 20

(2) ; A. H. Fletcher, B.T.C., 30 (3). Time, 48|s. Two miles handicap.— J.

L. Duguid, Young M.C.A., 275 yds (1) ; J. Ashworth, Salford, 300 (2) ; D.

J. Bell, Anfield, 260 (3). Time, 6m. 51|s.

42 THE WHEEL WORLD.

8th and 10th April. — Belfast (Ulster C.C.). — One mile handicap. — T. Lamb, Edinburgh, 50 yds (1) ; D. A. Gibson, Lanark, 105 (2) ; J. Bell, Greenisland, 150 (3). Four miles handicap. — C A. Palmer, Birmingham, scratch (1) ; T. Lamb, Edinburgh, 190 yds (2) ; W. M. Woodside, Coleraine, 200 (3). Two miles handicap.— T. Lamb, 100 yds (1) ; D. A. Gibson, 210 (2). Time, 7m. 16s. Three miles handicap. — C. A. Palmer, scratch (1) ; T. Lamb, 120 yds (2) ; F. Hunter, 230 (3). Tirre, 11m. 50fs.

10th April. — Bournemouth. — One mile handicap. — S. E. White, 60 yds (1) ; E. Griffin, 75 (2) ; T. Abbott, 80 (3). Three miles race.— J. S. Whatton, Cam- bridge University (1) ; F. Howell (2) ; E. T. Griffin (3). Good cinder course. No times.

10th April. — Brighton. — One mile handicap. — N. Nicholson, Brighton Rovers, 110 yds (1) ; A. E. Saunders, Brighton A.C., 100 (2) ; G. L. Jeffrey, Stanhope, 40 (3). Time, 3m. l£s. Three miles handicap. — R. A. Woolnough, Rovers, scratch (1) ; F. Nicholson, Brighton Rovers, 330 yds (2) , G. L. Jeffrey, Stanhope, 120 (3). Time, 9m. 53s. One mile tricycle handicap. — H. Colling, Brighton Cycling C, 40 yds (1) ; A. Girling, 50 (2) ; L. Grose, Camberwell' 50 (3). Won easily.

10th April. — Byker (Waller's Ground). — One mile handicap. — T. Mordue, Silks- worth, 110 yds (1) ; H. Greenwood, Berwick, 100 (2). Time, 3m. 2£s.

10th April. — Colchester. — Two miles race. — A. Spalding, West Essex (1) ; H. E Rushen, Witbam, and J. R. Hamilton, Druids, dead, heat; P. N. Garrod, Ipswich (3).

10th April. — Carlisle (Border City B.C., in Show Field). — Five miles handicap. — H. Wake, Whitehaven, 600 yds (1) ; A. J. Todd, Border C, 250 (2) ; R. Dover, Border C, 250 (3). Time, 18m. 35s. Two miles handicap. — R. Dover, 50 yds (1); H.Wake, 250 (2) ; A. J. Todd, 50 (3). Time, 7m. 5s. One mile handicap.— -J. Tiffen, Border C, 220 yds (1) ; C. Tiffen, 400 (2) ; C. Todd, 300 (3). Time, 3m. 24s.

10th April. — Chesterfield. — One mile handicap. — H. Stevenson, 170 yds (1) ; J. Farnhill, Nottingham, 180 (2) ; R. W. Cripps, Nottingham, scratch (3). One mile tricycle handicap. — R. W. Cripps, scratch (1) ; T. R. Marriott, Notting- ham, 10 yds (2). Half mile tricycle handicap. — R. B. Webster, Chilwell, scratch (1) ; W. Bradley, Chesterfield, 40 yds (2) ; H. R. Phillips, 100 (3). Quarter mile trick race with egys in teaspoons. — J. Ford, Claycross (1).

10th April. — Coleshill. — One mile handicap. — A. Hood, 35 yds (1) ; A Spencer, Redditch, 80 (2) ; T. Shillcock, 100 (3). Time, 3rn. 50s.

10th April. — Edinburgh (Academical Cricket C). — Bicycle race. — M. C. M'Ewan (1);- Young (2).

10th April. — Gateshead (North Durham C.C.). — Two miles handicap. — A. Ander- son, Northumberland Amateurs, 65 yds (1) ; F. W. Tait, 17 (2). Time, 7m. 20is.

10th April. — Salisbury (Recreation Grounds). — Two miles handicap. — C. King, scratch (1) ; C. Bridle, 250 yds (2) ; E. King, 230 (3). Time, 7m. 56s. Three miles handicap— H. Bailey, scratch (1) ; C. Abel, 200 yds (2). Time, 16m. 56s. Championship of Wilts. — C. King, Salisbury, won the five miles in 19m. 39s.

10th April. — Southport (Zoological Gardens). — Ten miles handicap. — J. T. Ward, Sale, scratch (l) ; R. Wildman, Leeds, lm. 45s. start (2) ; C. J. Thomas, Soutbport, 30s. (3). Won by 50 yards. No time taken.

10th April. — Southport (Winter Gardens). — One mile handicap. — C. W. Bayes, Airfield, scratch (1) ; W. Mason, Ashton-on-Mersey, 75 yds (2) ; R. Barlow, Radcliffe, 120 (3). Won by 15 yards. No time taken. Two miles handicap. — C. W. Bayes, Anfield, penalized 30 yds (1) ; R. Barlow, Radcliffe, 275 (2) ; C. H. Hodgkinson, Wigan, scratch (3). Won by 20 yards. No time taken.

10th April.— -Bedford (Clarence Grounds). — One mile handicap. — W. P. Lance, Northampton, 120 yds (1) ; D. Allbone, Biggleswade, 110 (2) ; J. H. Hawley, Bedford Amateurs, 100 (3). No time taken, Five miles handicap, — W, R. Ellis, Nottingham, 350 yds (1) ; J. H. Hawley, 400 (2) ; G. M. L. Kelham, Lombard, 220 (3). No time taken.

THE WHEEL WORLD. 43

10th April.— God Aiinrsa.— Three miles handicap.—!?. G. Hebbletlrwaite, Dews- bury, 200 yds (1) ; M. J. R. Dundas, Zingari, scratch (2) ; H. C. Tattam Kingston, 200 (3). Time, 11m. 42s., on grass. One mile tricycle race. — P. G. Hebblethwaite, Dewsbury (1); G. H. Fogden, Chichester (2).; C. Lauchlan (3).

10th April. — Newport (Mon.). — One mile handicap. — H. E. Watkin, Pontypool, 100 yds (1) ; W. L. Powell, Monmouth, 60 (2) ; E. Phillips, Newport, 85 (3). Time, 3m. 37Js. Two miles handicap. — M. A. Gibson, Bristol, 170 yds (1) ; W. L. Powell, Monmouth, 120 (2) ; E. Phillips, Newport, 170 (3). Time, 7m. 54|s.

10th April. — Oundle A.C. — Two miles handicap. — H. Eedgate, Nottingham, 100 yds (1) ; H. Taylor, Wellingboro', 150 (2) ; G. Love, Peterboro', scratch (3). Time, 8m. 30£s.

10th April. — Coventry (Cricket Ground). — One mile handicap. — M. H. Wbisln Birchfield, 80 yds (1) ; W. Powell, Coventry, 95 (2) ; J. Steer, Godiva Har- riers, 110 (3). Time, 2m. 46^s. Two miles handicap. — M. J. Lowndes, Congleton, 195 yds (1) ; M. H.'Whish, 170 (2) ; W. Powell, 240 (3). Time, 5m. 37s. One mile tricycle handicap. — M.J. Lowndes, 130 yds (1) ; T. Smith, Coventry, 142 (2) ; W. J. Mills, Coventry, 60 (3). Time, 3m. 21s.

10th April. — Oundle- School. — Two miles handicap. — A. Ward, 150 yds (1) ; B> W. Bradley, scratch (2).

10th April. — Oxeord. Churchman's Union, atlffley Ground. — Five miles handi- cap.— C. Crute, Sutton, scratch (1) ; W. F. M. Buckley, Oxford University, 40 yds (2) ; R. J. Reece, Civil Service, 70 (3). Time, 16m. One mile scratch race. — R. J. Reece (1) ; O. Thorn, London (2). Time, 3m. 6|s. Good cinder path.

10th April.— Woodbeidge.— 0?ie mile handicap.— T. R. Frost, W.M.B.C. (?), 250 yds (1) ; W. E. Milner, Belsize, scratch (2) ; W. Popplewell, Ipswich, 15 (3). Time, 3m. 234s. Tiro miles handicap .—F . Prentice, Ipswich, 100 yds (1) ; W. E. Milner, Belsize, scratch (2) ; W. Popplewell, Ipswich, scratch (3). Time, 7m. 4fs.

10th April. — Tunbridge Wells (Camden B.C.). — Two miles handicap. — H. Moore, 150 yds (1); W. Richardson, scratch (2); E. Brown, 350(3). Time, 8m. 46s. One mile tricycle handicap. — E. Brown, 50 yds (1) ; J. Smith, 20 (2) ; C. Creed, scratch (3j. Time, 4m. 19s.

10th April. — Gravesend (Bat and Ball). — One mile handicap. — E. S. Flinn. Orsett (1) ; W. Flindell, Criterion (2) ; J. H. Carson (3). Five miles handi- cap.— W. Heasman (1); Rutson (2); Flinn (3).

10th April. — Southend. — One mile handicap. — A. Dearn (1); H. Peters (2); J; C. P. Tacagni (3). Time, 3m. 10s. Three miles handicap.— J. C. P. Tacagn* (1); A. Dearn (2); D. Aland (3). Time, 10m. 5s.

10th April. — Leighton Buzzard (Bell Close). — Two miles handicap. — F. M. Lee> 150 yds (1); A. M. Bolton, 50 (2); H. J. Negus, scratch (3). Five miles handicap.— A. M. Bolton, 210 yds (1); H. V. L. Kelham, 130 (2); J. E. Phillips, scratch, (3). Time, 19m. 17s.

10th April. — Swansea. — One mile handicap. — McKee, 50 yds (1); G. Smith, 120 (2). Seven miles handicap. — G. Ace, scratch, (1); G. Smith, 600 yds (2).

10th and 11th April. — Leicester (Belgrave Road) — .One mile handicap. — W. T. Prew, Leicester, 210 yds (1) ; R. Chambers, Birmingham, 75 (2) ; G. A. Walker, Leicester, 110 (3). Time 2m. 45§s. Five miles handicap. — R- Chambers, 150 yds (1) ; Taylor, Narboro', 400 (2) ; R. Billson, 350 (3). Tioo miles tricycle hmdicap. — T.R. Marriott, Nottingham, 290 yds (1)'; T. Smith, Coventry, 290 (2) ; J. Lowndes, Coventry, 230 (3). Time, 6m. 59£s.

11th April. — Tunbridge Wells. — One mile race. — C. A. Stevenson (1) ; H. A. Moore (2) ; H. Richardson (3). Time, 3m. 38s. Good grass course.

11th April. — Ludlow. — Two miles handicap. — T. J. Anthony, Leominster, 130

44

THE WHEEL WORLD.

11th April.— Exeter (Polsloe Park).— One mile scratch race.—F. Hansford (1),

F. B. Fry (2). Three miles tricycle handicap.— W. H. Caseley, scratch (1).

Tioo miles handicap.— F. W. Jones, junr., scratch (1) ; W. Elliot, 90 yds (2) ;

W. Jones, 180 (3). Five miles handicap.— F. Hansford, 250 yds (1) ; T.

Studley, 550 (2) ; F. E. Fry, scratch (3). Three miles handicap.— T. Studley,

400 yds (1) ; F. Hansford, 175 (2).

yds (1) ; J. Badger, Ludlow, 150 (2). 15th April. — Balham (Manor House School). — Two miles handicap. — H. T.

Olney, scratch (1) ; E. H. Fletcher. 200 yds (2). One mile tricycle race. — A.

Jenner, (1) ; C. E. Seligman (2). No times taken. 15th April. — Glasgow (West of Scotland C.C. Sports at Partrick). — Tivo miles

race.—C. A. Palmer (1) ; T. Lamb, Edinburgh (2). Time, 8m. 20s. One

mile race.—G. A. Palmer (1) ; T. Lamb (2). Time, 4m. 3Js.

22nd April. — Kennington Oval (Surrey B.C.). — One mile handicap. — J. S. Whatton, C.U.B.C., 80 yds (1) ; C. W. Coe, 110 (2) : A. Thompson, Gran- ville, 160 (3). Time, 3m. 17£s. Ten miles scratch race.— C. A. Palmer and J. F. Griffith dead heat ; M. J. E. Dundas (3). Time, 38m. 52|s.

*. NO -

>A* ,g,°^ . th^rjs so matjy (Tads ride *em tf°v/

THE WHEEL WORLD. 45

PATENT RECORD.

[Compiled by Hart & Co., Patent Agents, 28, New Bridge Street, E.C., from

whom all information concerning Patents, including book of instructions,

may be obtained.]

APPLICATIONS FOR LETTERS PATENT. 1275. — H. F. D. Miller, Birmingham. Lamps for bicycles and tricycles. 16th

March, 1882. 1395. — J. Lucas, Birmingham. Lamps for bicycles, tricycles, &c. 22nd March,

1882. 1425. — A.Pengelly and R. Day, Highbridge. Velocipedes, applicable for use on

land or water. 24th March, 1882. 1581. — J. Jenner, Kensington. Saddles for bicycles, &c. 31st March, 1882. 1623.— A. E. Gorse, Birmingham. Bicycles. 4th April, 1882. 1667.— T. Forshaw, Smalley. Tricycles and bicycles. 6th April, 1882. 1680. — W. Scantlebury, London. Bicycles and other velocipedes. 6th April,

1882.

1687.— C. J. Griffith, London. Motor for driving tricycles, <&c 6th April, 1882.

1764.— G. Rixon, Wellingborough. Bicycles. 13th April, 1882.

NOTICES TO PROCEED

Have been given by the following Applicants on the dates named : —

14th Mabch, 1882.

4917. — L. E. Broadbent, London. Bicycles, tricycles, and quadricycles. 9th

Nov., 1881. 4956. — R. H. Lea and G. Singer, Coventry. Construction of velocipedes. 12th Nov., 1881.

21st March, 1882. 439. — A. Burdess, Coventry. Construction of seats of tricycles, &c. 28th Jan.,

1882. 683.— A. Burdess, Coventry. Ball or roller bearings for velocipedes. 11th Feb., 1882.

24th Makch, 1882. 5106.— W. E. Price and W. D. Overton, Hampton Wick. Velocipedes, &c. 22nd

Nov., 1881. 5253.— J. T. Townsend, Coventry. Tricycles. 1st Dec, 1881. 5514. — W. P. Thompson, London. Apparatus for driving tricycles. (Com. by N. Merrill, New York, U.S.A.) 16th Dec, 1881. 28th March, 1882. 5113. — W. T. Eades, Birmingham. Construction of velocipedes. 23rd Nov.,

1881. 5305. — C. R. B. Hamilton, Greenwich. Construction of saddles for bicycles, &c 5th Dec, 1881.

4th April, 1882. 5287.— C. Beger, Berlin. Velocipedes. 3rd Dec, 1881.

877. — H. Lees, Ashton-under-Lyne. Alarum bells for bicycles, tricycles, (fee. 23rd Feb., 1882.

14th April, 1882.

5682. J. White and J. Asbury, Coventry. Velocipedes. 27th Dec, 1881.

PATENTS SEALED.

The following Letters Patent passed the Great Seal on the dates named : —

17th March, 1882.

4051. — E. R. Settle, Coventry. Driving mechanism for velocipedes. 20th Sept.,

1881. 4106.— J. E. Leeson, Oldham. Lamps for bicycles and other velocipedes. 23rd

Sept., 1881. 4319. — J. A. Lamplugh, Birmingham. Bicycles. 4th Oct., 1881. 21st March, 1882.

46 THE WHEEL WORLD.

4091.— J. Adams, Camberwell. Tricycles. 22nd Sept., 1881.

28th March, 1882. 4317. — T. Warwick, Aston. Bicycles, tricycles, and other velocipedes. 4th Oct., 1881.

11th April, 1882. 4492. — W. Harrison, Manchester. Velocipedes. 14th Oct., 1881. 650. — H. A. Dufrene, Paris. Velocipedes. (Com. by A. Mange, Longchamp, France.) 10th Feb., 1882.

14th April, 1882. 4542.— F. W. Eicke, Beulah Hill. Construction of velocipedes. 18th Oct. 1881.

PATENT,

On which the Stamp Duty of £50 has been paid. 1274.— E. C. F. Otto, Peckham. Bicycles. 31st March, 1879.

PATENT VOID

Through the non-payment of £50 Stamp Duty. 1305. — D. Campbell and J. Walker, Wolverhampton. Tricycles and manufac- turing tyres for velocipede wheels, &c. 2nd April, 1879.

ABRIDGMENTS OF SPECIFICATIONS.

Published during the month ending 15th April, 1882. Prepared by Hart & Co.> Patent Agents, 28, New Bridge Street, E.C.

3272. — J. H. Johnson, London. Bicycles. To prevent the class of accidents known as " headers," the handle bar is so fitted on the yoke that on any pressure being applied it immediately becomes detached there- from. A spring lever is used to lock the handle bar on the yoke, the pin of which passes through an opening in the hub of the handle and the stem of the yoke. (Com. by W. Eennyson, Norriss Town, U.S.A.) 26th July, 1881. Price 6d.

3317. — W. Jeans, Christchurch. Tricycles. To provide for different speeds two sets of gearing wheels are provided between the crank shaft and the wheels, one being on each side of the vehicle. One set drives the wheels faster than the crank shaft, and the other slower levers bring each set into action as required. 30th July, 1881. Price 6d.

3371. — F. Wirth, Frankfort. Velocipedes. On the axle of the wheel is fixed a ratchet wheel, just outside the fork on each side, and a toothed wheel is mounted freely on the axle, which has pawls to engage the ratchet wheel. The toothed wheel gears into teeth on the inner edge of a seg- mental lever, which is pivotted on an extension backwards of the fork, and fitted with pedals. On the underside of the lever a spring is arranged to raise it when the downward pressure is removed. The wheel is caused to revolve by the downward motion of the lever, acting through the pawls of the loose wheel on the ratchet wheel. (Com. by P. Praechter, Heidelburg, Germany.) 3rd August, 1881. Price 8d.

3408. — G. Strickland, Malta. Bicycles, &c. The backbone is made in two parts, the lower part sliding in the upper part, and regulated by a screw within the backbone, actuated from the front of the fork. The rake of the fork can therefore be varied as required. 6th August, 1881. Price 6d.

3432. — W. R. Foster and T. J. Williams, London, Securing india-rubber tyres to wheels of bicycles, &c. The tyre is formed with a longitudinal groove at each side, and the rim of the wheel has corresponding inward projections to take into these grooves. 8th August, 1881. Price 4d.

THE WHEEL WORLD. 47

3587. — A. W. Bobinson, Birmingham. Bicycles, &c. A steering check spring, consisting of a coiled spring in a tube, which presses a flat-headed piston against the steering shaft or other part, is used, so that the hands of the rider are free while the vehicle is travelling in a straight line. The seats of tricycles are formed of endless leather bands, passed through loops on the side rails of the seats on which the surface of the seat is stretched. 17th August, 1881. Price 6d.

3623. — C. Toope, London. Bicycles and tricycles. The backbone is fitted on a spindle rising from the fork, between which and the socket of the back- bone is a coiled spring to lessen the jolting motion. In the lower ends of the fork are boxes with bearings for the axle, which boxes move freely in vertical guides, and are governed by springs. (Pro. pro.) 19th August, 1881. Price 2d.

3576. — M. A. Weir, London. Velocipedes. An endless band or chain passes over two pulleys, one on the hub of the wheel, and the other on a sliding arm below. The pressiire is given through two pedal levers, on each of which are two pedals connected with a clutch. The forward clutch on the pedal bar grips and moves the endless band so as to drive the machine forward, and vice versa. The axle is made in two parts, one sliding within the other, so that the machine may be collapsed. 17th August, 1881. Price 6d.

3684. — W. G-. Hammon, Coventry. Driving gear for velocipedes. A drum carrier inside a helical spring, the end of which is attached to the spindle on which the wheel is loosely mounted, and a chain is coiled on the barrel of the drum, which is attached to the treadle. On the drum is a slot in which a pawl on a plate clutches. The plate actuates a ratchet wheel secured to the driving wheel. (Pro. pro.) 24th August, 1881. Price 2d.

3697. — G. B. Godsall and J. C. C. Bead, Birmingham. Bicycle lamp. This lamp has a hinged barrel by which it is suspended from the axle. One half of the cylindrical barrel is secured to the lamp, and to the under part of the other half is a hasp which snaps over a projecting spring catch on the top part of the front of the lamp. The door of the lamp is hinged to the body at the bottom, and when it is closed it fastens over the hasp and assists in securing it in position. 25th Aug., 1881. Price 6d.

3572. — G. Bichards, Manchester, and B. C. Tilghman, London. Velocipedes. The fork is continued before the large driving wheel as well as behind, and a second small wheel is fitted in front to prevent " headers." This has an independent steering apparatus so as to be always on the same plane or line with the large wheel. 17th August, 1881. Price 6d.

3763. — J. K. Starley, Coventry. Driving velocipedes. Increased power is brought into action when mounting hills, &c, by a double toothed pinion, which can either act on a bevel wheel fixed on the hub of the driving wheel or on a smaller wheel mounted on a stationary spindle. (Pro. pro.) 30th August, 1881. Price 2d.

3764. — J. K. Starley, Coventry. Velocipedes. Instead of having rigid teeth on the chain wheel, discs or rollers are pivotted on the periphery of the wheel on which ride curved bosses or shackles formed in the chain. The saddle is so fitted on a rod that its position may be changed. The wheel is driven by a vertical shaft connected by bevel wheels to the crank shaft, and by a pinion engaging an internally toothed wheel in the hub of the driving wheel. (Pro. pro.) 30th August, 1881. Price 2d.

3769. — E. A. Smythe, London. Propelling velocipedes. A straight cogged- rack acts on a cogged wheel mounted loosely on each end of the axle, which acts on the driving wheel by a ratchet wheel and pawl. Stirrups are attached to each rack, and they are connected together by a chain over pulleys fixed above the wheel, so that as one is depressed the other is lifted. (Pro. pro.) 30th August, 1881. Price 2d.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

THE

Edited by " DIOMED.'

CONTAINS :

Four*M-Page*Portraits*ofKeleMties,

WITH BIOGRAPHIES:

Volume 1 Contains

ASTLEY, SIR J. D. ARCHER, FRED.

BERESFORD, LORD M. BLlftE, ("Augur"). COOPER, FRED. CONSTABLE, H. CORTIS, H. E. DAVENPORT, H. FROST-SMITH, R. GEORGE, W. G. GRACE, W. G. GRACE, G. F.

HANLAN, EDWARD. LOCKTON, C. E. MITCHELL, J. ("Vigilant"). MYERS, L. E. REAV, J. H. L. ROSEBERY, LORD. ROSS, WALLACE. ROUS, ADMIRAL. ROWELL, CHARLES. SAMPSON, H. ("Pendragon"). SMERTHWAITE,H.,"BIeys" VIZE. G. H.

Volume I., handsomely bound in cloth, 5s.; post free, 5s. 6d.

No. 7, Vol. 2, Contains J. WH1TEFOOT (Sportsman) | E. E. MERRILL. J. WEBSTER. I H. M. OLIVER.

No. 8, Vol. 2, Contains LACY HILLIER. I G. W. ATKINSON.

GEORGE FORDHAM. | E. TRICKETT.

No. 9, Vol. 2, Contains W. P. PHILLIPS. I TOM CANNON.

CHARLES CRETE. | E. LAYCOCR.

-^REFLECTIONS ON THE MONTH.

^*SP0RTING CHRONOLOGY.

-N^DiARY FOR THE MONTHS

&C, &C, &G.

SIZE, DEMY 8vo., 50 PAGES.

fcpma JltfltttljliJ, post to 7&.

Of all Booksellers, Newsagents, Bookstalls, &c, or of

Harry Etherington, 152, Fleet Street, London, E.C.

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

19

BICYCLE OILS.

AVILA TRINGHAM'S CHAMPION RUBY BICYCLE OIL,

FINEST PREPARED & SUITABLE FOR ALL MACHINES,

ELECTRIC LAMP OIL,

Specially Refined for Bicycle Lamps, Burns steadily on the Roughest Roads, Highly Recom- mended. Six Hours' Brilliant Light at a cost of One Penny. Sold in capsuled bottles, Is., and in Tins carefully prepared for the country and export, Is. 6d. and 3s. each.

A. TRINGHAM, Oil Refiner, 151, Hanbury Street, Mile End, LONDON, E.

CLAPTON BICYCLE SCHOOL.

BIDING TAUGHT AT ALL HOUES OF THE DAY BY

MR. T. ASHTON,

Who has Testimonials from Biders from all parts of London. REPAIRING & PAINTING BY EXPERIENCED WORKMEN.

Bells, Lamps, Bugles, and all kinds of Bicycle Sundries in Stock.

Also the Leather Cap for preventing Dust getting into the Back Wheels.

Bicycles of all sizes, on Hire, per Hour, Day, or Month. See also the

" CYPRUS," all sizes, £8 ios.

ASHTONnBROTHKRS,

Steam Bicycle Works, London Road, Downs Road, Clapton, E.

(MB BADGES, Ac.

TO SECRETARIES AND OFFICERS OF CLUBS AND OTHERS.

For Specialities and Artistic Badges at moderate charges

SEND TO

W. BOYDEN,

Manufacturer of every description

OF

Club and Bicycle Badges,

MEDALS, &c, GRANGE COURT HOUSE,

MANOR PARK, STOKE NEWINGTON, N.

See opinions of Press & Testimonials.

JEstablished IS 51.

BLREBECK BANK.— Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane. Current Accounts opened accord- ing to the usual practice of other Bankers, and interest allowed on the minimum monthly balances when not drawn below £25. No commission charged for keeping A ccounts.

The Bank also receives money on Deposit at Three per cent, interest repayable on demand.

The Bank undertakes for its customers, free of charge, the custody of Deeds, Writings, and other securities and Valuables ; the collection of Bills of Ex- change, Dividends and Coupons ; and the purchase and sale of Stocks and Shares.

Letters of Credit and Circular Notes

A Pamphlet, with full particulars, on application.

FRANCIS RAVENSCROFT, Manager 31st March, 1880.

The Birkbeck Building Society's Annua Receipts exceed four Millions.

HOW TO PURCHASE A HOUSE FOR Two Guineas Peb Month, with immediate possession and no Rent to pay. Apply at the Office of the Bibkbeck Build- ing SocrETY.

HOW TO PURCHASE A PLOT OF Land fob Five Sheadings peb Month, with immediate posnession, either for building or Gardening purposes. — Apply at the office of the Bibkbeck Fbee- hold Land Society.

A Pamphlet, with full particulars, on application.

FRANCIS RAVENSCROFT Manager Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane.

The Wheel It'orld Advertiser — May, 1882.

COVENTRY PHCENIX" No.

BY ROYAL,

Letters Patent.

THE

COVENTRY

PHffiNIX

TRICYCLE

COMPANY.

DOUBLE DRIVER.

All their Tricycles are fitted withPRITCHARD'SPATENT AUTOMATIC MOTION for driving both wheels either for- wards or backwards.

A thoroughly Sate and Reliable Machine, suitable for either Lady or Gentle- man.

T. PRITCHARD, JUNR.,

132, 153, 134,

MUCH PARK STREET,

COVENTRY.

" Coventry Phoenix " No. 3, Sociable

COVENTRY PHCENIX" N0.2. NEW PATTERN.

DOUBLE DRiV£.K. (T. Pritchard, Jun.),

WORKS

132, 133, 131, IUCHPMKST.

COVENTRY,

The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

IMPERIAL BICYCLE,

Manufactured by

W, SMITH,

Crocus Street, Nottingham,

IS THE MACHINE FOR 1882,

As is proved by the following :

Mr. H. HIGHAM, of Nottingham, won the long-distance Championship of the Midlands, of 14 hours per day at Bir- mingham, in October, 1879, on a 52-in. Imperial Racer. It is worthy of note that this is the only six days' race ever won without a change of machine.

Thursday, March 17, 1880. At the Agri cultural Hall he rode the unprecedented distance of 230J miles, without dismount- ing, and the quickest 100 miles on record.

Write for Price Lists and Testimonials before ordering elsewhere.

GOY, London Agent.

ST. JOHN'S WOOD

BICYCLE DEPOT. SCHOOL AND

PRACTICE GROUNDS, 63, Queens Road,

Adjoining Marlboro' Eoad Station, Metropolitan Railway.

JOHN ~BUTLER,

AGENT FOB THE SALE OP

ALL THE BEST MAKES.

Repairs of all kinds on the Pre- mises with Despatch. Bicycles, Tricycles, & Salvo- Quadricycles

for Hire, loith option of Purchase. Large Stock of Second-hand Machines.

BUTLER'S RAT TRAP PEDAL SLIPPER

" Registered," 3/0 Per Pair-

Sent Carriage paid on receipt of Remittance

Send Stamps for J. Butler's Monthly Price List of Second-hand Bicycles, Tri- cycles, &c. For full description of Pedal Slipper, see Wheel World, May Number.

SALSBURY'S IMPROVED NOISELESS

19i

BY

WITH NEW SAFETY FASTENING. HER MAJESTY'S ROYAL LETTERS PATENT. SECTION ^ SECTION

OF FASTENING.

iNING. ®*=

L2

\

The above Fastening need only be seen by Bicyclists to convince them that it is the Safest, Simplest and Strongest ever introduced. It can be attached in a moment to the axle with only one hand by merely depressing a vertical bolt which securely closes the lower half of the cylinder or socket piece, and renders it an impossibility for the lamp to become detached by the vibration of the machine. Prices, Japanned, No. 1, 1 0/- each ; No. '2, 1 0/9 each ; No. 3, 1 1 /6 each. Nickel-plated, No. 1, 1 6/6 each ; No. 2, 1 3/6 each ; No. 3, 21 /- each.

Also noiseless HEAD LAMPS fop Bicycles and Tricycles. Over Twelve Thousand ace in use.— Sold by all Bicycle Makers and Agents throughout the Kingdom, and at the Manufactory,

125, & 126, LONG ACRE, LONDON. Established 1806

22 The Wheel World Advertiser — May, 1882.

GO TO

MAYNARD, HARRIS & GO.,

FOR

The 'Special Devon' Tricycle,

Which is of entirely novel construction, and contains more important improvements than any Tricycle yet constructed ;

The 'Devon Safety' BiGycle,

THE

9 Bf,~mmj2iU ^^Jl ffl^'Js

'Muom

SELECTIONS OF CLOTHS

FOR CLUB UNIFORMS, Ac, &c.

126 and 127, LEADENHALL STREET,

LONDON, K.C.

VV

Uptilj

6

nut

>N, NOTTINGHAM;

IYGLE UNION GHHPIONSflIP

:

C. Cr 2nd:

days from

HE HUMBER TRIC

TRICYCLISTJ

Id Subscribe to

THE CYCLIST'

AND BiGYGUNG ANQ TRIGYCUNB TRADES REVIEW.

EDITED BY

f the "Indispensable Bicyclists' Handbook, "Trieyclists' Indispensable Anmi tip

C. W. TV&ZW11&,

ditor of "The Cyclist and Wheel World Annual."

id paragraphs. and original REPORTS of all RACES and impc

i entry : ILIFFE & SOU, 12, Sinit hfor«l Street. Xemton : HAKKY ETH£RINO'fO?i. I 44. Fleet Street.

CYCLIST," ONE PENNY, is publish ■■'■ and ■•Coventry,' and may be had ,, or delivered FIRST POST on 12 months, 6/6;. 6 Jfonthf

A BIGYGLING * TRIGYGLING

Illustrated |jfagazme of ffport.

EDITED BY

HENRY STURMEY & C. W. NAIRN.

LONDON:

. HARRY ETHERINGTON, 152, FLEET STREET, E.C.

COVENTRY:

ILIFFE & SON, 12, SMITHFORD STREET AND VICAR LANE.

BIRMINGHAM :

C. J. NUTT, 80, SMALLBROOK STREET.

ILIFFE 4 SON, PRINTERS. COVENTRY.

H- L. CORTIS, Amateur Champion, won the 25 and 50 Miles'

Amateur Championship Races on a Bicycle fitted with Bown's

" 2E0LTJS " Ball Bearings, beating record time-

BOWN'S

PATENT

MUS BALL BEARINGS,

FOB

FRONT WHEELS, BACK WHEELS, AND PEDALS OF BICYCLES & TRICYCLES,

|ABB

Universally Adjustable, Dust or Dirt Proof, require

but Slight Lubrication, and consequently are the most

Durable Bearings yet introduced.

As a proof of their vast superiority, all the principal Amateur and

Professional Bicycle Eaces have been won by the use of these

celebrated Bearings.

Front Wheel Bearings.

Back Wheel Bearings.

Elevation. Section. Front Vgwwltti

WILLIAM BOWN,

308, SUMMER LANE, BIRMINGHAM,

N.B.-

a)0SJ.8.8

SOLE PROPRIETOR AND MAKER,

-Manufacturer of every description of Fittings for Bicycles and Stampings in Iron and Steel for same.

Bown's Patent ''.SOLUS" Ball Bearings are admitted to be by far

the best as regards durability, easy adjustment, for attaining

great speed and requiring less lubrication than all others.

The Wheel World Advertiser— June, 1882. 1

Only a few Copies left ! !

i mi ANNUAL,

EDITED BY C. W. WW % P]^Y gTORflEY.

CONTAINING :—

Diary and Almanac for 1882, with spaces for runs.

Complete Dictionary of the direct Koads from London throughout the United

Kingdom. An Analysis of some English Eoads, compiled from personal investigation.

By •' OrsEBVEB,",L.B.C. Description of the Principal Racing Courses used by Cyclists. The Racing Record of 1881, with Handicapper's Index. Summary of the Racing Season in the Metropolis, the Midlands, the West and

South-West, and in Scotland, by residents in each respective district. Table of fastest Amateur Times. By Mr. G. P. Coleman. Tricycle Road Records. The Complete Bibliography of Cycling. Tabulated and compiled by H.

Blackwell, Junr. " A Cycle of Cycling." By "Aout."

An Exhaustive Illustrated Article on " Monocycles." By Henry Sturmey. "Whitsuntide Wanderings of a Wharfedale Wheelman No. II." " Wilfred's Wheel of Fortune." By William J. Bull, Minerva B.C. (Author

of " Odds and Ends "). " Manners Maketh Men." By McCullum Hill.

" How No. 1 of the ' Southern Wheeler' Appeared." By "Joey" Sawtell. "Bicycle Riding" — A Few Hints to Beginners. "A Tale of a Social." By "Joey" Sawtell.

" The Advantages of Bicycling." By R. P. Hampton-Roberts, Belsize B.C. " Inoidents of the Road." By Charles R. Madlox.

" Fireside Thoughts on Tricycles and Tricycling." By Boverton Redwood. " Mems on Tricycling." By Harry Venable3. " That Glittering ' Rudge.' " By " Titanambungo." The Bicycle Touring Club. The Bicycle Union. Definition of an Amateur. The Clubs of the World and their Badges. Chronological Resume of the past year.

Demy 8vo.

Nearly 300 Pages.

500 Illustrations.

PRICE ONE SHILLING,

POST FREE 1/4.

ILIFFE & SON, "The Cyclist" Office. COVENTRY. LONDON : HARRY ETHERINGTOIV, Fleet Street, B.C.

The Wheel World Advertiser— June, 1882.

HILLMAN,

H ERBERI

# QOOPER,

"PREMIER" WORKS, COVENTRY.

97, CHEAPSIDE, { TQND0N

5, LISLE ST., LEICESTER SQUARE,

S) f) *♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦ A*

UPREMIER"

Bicycles * Tricycles.

*»«*««»»*««»»«•»«*»*«*«««««• »♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦•♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦♦

SEND FOR Catalogue & Testimonials.

D.H.F. PREMIER. PREMIER DOUBLE DRIVER.

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO SHIPPERS.

IS* Please say where you saw this.

The Wheel World Advertiser — fane, 1882. 3

THE WORLD-RENOWNED

Duplex Excelsior Hollow Fork.

ALL IMPROVEMENTS, SPECIAL QUALITY & FINISH,

As supplied to the American Bicyclist Touring Party,

JULY, 1880.

Patronised by Eer Majesty's Postmaster General,

The ExGelsior Tricycle, No. 1.

■Itirt/itftirrrrrrrffirfftfifirrfrnijffirrrrfrrwtffrrtrrjr/frfrrtfwrrrrf/fj/fr/ftf/ifrtff/rftjfti

With Patent Gear (No. 4842, Nov., 1879), in lieu of Endless Chain. Ball Bear- ings to all Wheels, and Pedal Action.

Hundreds in daily use by the Postal Service, running from 20 to 40 miles daily. A proof of their durability and easy running.

THE CHAMPION 10 MILE AMATEUR TRICYCLE RACE,

Run at Belgrave Road Grounds, Leicester, Easter Tuesday, April ig, 1881 was Won by S. Corbett, Jun., C.B.C., on an " Excelsior," manufactured by BAYLISS, THOMAS & Co. Time, 42m. 54s., beating G. Hillier (on Humber), and C. D. Vesey (on Humber).

At the Fifty Miles Tricycle Eaoe, on November 6th, 1880, from Finchley to Hitchin and back, the four " Excelsior" Tricycles ridden by Messrs. H. J. Bell, W.K.T.C.; S. Corbett, C.B.C.; C. Kitching, W.K.T.C; and W. W.Williams, W.K.T.C, were each winners of medals, having completed the distance in the specified time,

BAYLISa THOMAS & Co.,

"Excelsior" Works, Coventry,

The oldest and largest Bicycle and Tricycle Manufacturers in Coventry with one exception.

Descriptive Price List, with Woodcuts and Testimonials, £8 pages, Id. stamp.

LONDON AGENTS:

GOY & Co.. Leadenhall Street, E.C.; HICKLING & Co., 30, Queen Victoria St.

[E.C

The Mieel World Advertiser -$une, T882.

"^P 6¥CMgr p^ipip W0^Kg,

ILIFFE & SON,

PRINTERS

AND

PUBLISHERS

ESTIMATES ON APPLICATION,

12, SMMFORD STREET & YICAR LAM COVENTRY.

SECOND THOUSAND.

REDUCED TO ONE SHILLING.

Post Free 1/3.

NAUTIGUS A HOBBY HORSE ;

A Tricycle Tour of 1,428 miles through England. By the Aumor of " Nauticus in Scotland."

Of all Bicycle and News Agents; or London, HARRY ETHERINGTON, 152, Fleet Street, E.C.

The Wheel World Advertiser— June, 1882.

CLUB BADGES, &c.

TO SECRETARIES AND OFFICERS OF CLUBS AND OTHERS.

For Specialities and Artistic Badges at moderate charge s

W. BOYDEN,

Manufacturer of every description

OP

Club and Bicycie Badges,

MEDALS, &c, GRANGE COURT HOUSE,

MANOR PARK, STOKE NEWINGTON, N.

See opinions of Press & Testimonials.

Established 1851.

BIRKBECK BANK.— Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane. Current Accounts opened accord- ing to the usual practice of other Bankers, and interest allowed on the minimum mouthly balances when not drawn below £25. No commission charged for keeping A ccounts.

The Bank also receives money on Deposit at Three per cent, interest repayable on demand.

The Bank undertakes for its customers, free of charge, the custody of Deeds, Writings, and other securities and Valuables ; the collection of Bills ef Ex- change, Dividends and Coupons ; and the purchase and sale of Stocks and Shares.

Letters of Credit and Circular Notes issued.

A Pamphlet, with full particulars, on application.

FRANCIS RAVENSCROFT, Manager 31st March, 1880.

The Birkbeck Building Society's Annua Receipts exceed four Millions.

HOW TO PURCHASE A HOUSE FOR Two Guineas Per Month, with immediate possession and no Reutto pay. Apply at the Office of the Birkbeck Build- ing Society.

HOW tO PURCHASE A PLOT OF Land for Five Shillings per Month, with immediate posoession, either for building or Gardening purposes — Apply at the office of the Birkijeuk Free- hold Land Society.

A Pamphlet, with full particulars, op application.

FRANCIS RAVENSCROFT Manpger Southampton Buildings, Chancery T £,ne.

THE "PIONEER"

BICYCLE.

H. J. PAUSEY, University Bicycle Works,

BEDFORD ROAD, CLAPHAM, S.W. Three minutes' Walk from Clapham-road Railway Station.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882.

M. D. RUCKBR, JUN., & Co.,

Letchford's Buildings, Bethnal Green, London, E.

Tew section of rim

Advantages.— The Rubber is held securely without cement, is easily turned when worn, and is then equal to a new tyre. The rims being stiffer make stronger wheels.

CENTRAL PIN STEERING,

Secured with Patent Nut of which X and Y are the plan and elevation. Advantages.— Extra Rigidity. . A greater and better bearing surface, and consequently less subject to wear, ease of adjustment and impossibility to work loose.

s*ction of fi» *

(bell's patent).

BICYCLE

if!? CO MUICH

(swindlet's patent)

THE " RUGKER

Is made of best possible material, and for rigidity, strength, and appearance cannot be sur

passed. The above and other patented improvements are supphed, if required,

without extra charge.

PRICE, for any size, bright or japanned, with ball bear, ings to both wheels, £17 i*s. No Extras.

SEND FOR PRICE LISTS WITH FULL PARTICULARS.

THE PATENT 'CLYTIE' TOURISTS* BAG.

Prices. — Best quality Cowhide, 21/- ; other materials, 15/- MANUFACTURERS OF THE "DEVON" SAFETY.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882.

CATALOGUE IN BRIEF OP

Printed and Published bj ILIFFE & SON, 'he fjgclfot f§Mee, govcntr^

"THE CYCLIST" and Bicycling and Tricycling Trades' Review. The Leading Journal devoted to the kindred Sport and Trade of. the Wheel- Published every Wednesday Morning, in Town and Country. Fullest and Earliest Information on all points. Edited by Henry Sturmey and C. W. Nairn. Price Id. Annual Subscription, 6/6.

"THE WHEEL WORLD," Companion Monthly to The Cyclist. The Leading Magazine. Good Articles and humorous Cartoons and Illustrations. Well sent out. Edited by Henry Sturmey and C. W. Nairn. 25th of each Month. 3d. Monthly, Annual Subscription, 4/-.

THE "INDISPENSABLE" BICYCLISTS' HANDBOOK. A com- plete cyclopaedia on the subject. By Henry Sturmey. Fully Illustrated Des- criptions and Dissertations on the Machines and Novelties of the Year. Pub- lished Annually in June. 300 Pages. 100 Illustrations. 1/-, by Post 1/4.

THE TRICYCLISTS' " INDISPENSABLE " ANNUAL and HAND- BOOK. A guide to the pastime, and complete cyclopaedia on the subject. By Henry Sturmey. The only book published dealing solely with the Tricycle and Tricycling. Published Annually in March. Fully Illustrated. 1/6 Post Free.

"THE CYCLIST AND WHEEL WORLD ANNUAL." The Book of

the Year. Fullest statistical information concerning all branches of the Sport. Amusing and Instructive Articles, &c, &c, Illustrated. Edited by C. W. Nairn and Henry Sturmey. Published Annually in January. 1/-, by Post 1/3.

"PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING" for Amateur Athletes, With Special Begard to Bicyclists. By H. L. Cortis (Amateur Champion at all Distances, 1880). Price 1/-, by Post, 1/2.

THE COMPLETE "GUIDE TO BICYCLING," Or How to Become a Bicyclist. By Henry Sturmey. No possessor of a Bicycle should be without this work. Price 1/-, by Post 1/2.

" THE CYCLIST " XMAS NUMBER (1881). Humorous Articles, Poems, Ballads, Adventurous Bides, Puzzles, &c, &c. Over 80 Original and Humorous Illustrations, and Hluminated Cover. Edited by Henry Sturmey. Price 1/-, by Post 1/2.

8 The Wheel World Advertiser— June, 1882.

HYDES & WIGFULL,

LIMITED,

ENGINEERS, SHEFFIELD AND LONDON,

MANUFACTUBEBS OF THE CELEBBATED

*: STANLEY," ^CHEOTER^&^MARMION " BICYCLES. THE "REGISTERED STANLEY" BICYCLE.

The best Hollow-fork Bicycle in the market. This machine is turned out com- plete, with Ball-bearings to both Wheels, Brake, Leg-guard, Dust Cap to Head, and nickel-plated. Price for 52in., .CIS lOs.

THE " REGISTERED °CHESTER " BICYCLE.

A splendid maohine, with broad Hollow-forks, Ball-bearings to front "Wheel, new dust-proof Cones to back Wheel, Brake, Leg-guard, and Dust-cap to head. All bright and burnished. Price for 52in., ,£15 10s. If painted, 10s. less. Nickel-plated 40s. extra. Ball bearings to back Wheel, 20s. extra.

Either of the above fitted with H. & TF.'s Registered Duplex Anti-friction Ball Bearing Head, 50j- extra.

THE "M ARM ION" BICYCLE.

A good sound machine, with Hollow-fork both front and back, Ball bearings to front wheel, Cones to back, half-bright. Price for 52in. JE12 10s.

THE "ORIGINAL "STANLEY" BICYCLE.

Of world-wide renown. Price for 52in., all bright, £13.

THE "ORIGINAL CHESTER" BICYCLE.

Similar to the " Original Stanley," but painted in three colours. Price for 52in., £11, the best value in the market.

LONDON BRANCH :-THE GREAT-WESTERN BICYCLE AND TRICYCLE DEPOT,

2, & 2a, Praed Street, Paddington, W., (One minute from Edgware Road Station,)

London Manager, Mr. W. T. CROOKE,

Where REPAIRS are executed promptly and well, at Beasonable Charges.

Also a large and varied stock of BICYCLE and TRICYCLE SUNDRIES,

Low Prices and Good Value. Specially prepared lubricating oil, 1/- per bottle.

Riding Taught by experienced Assistant-*, in Covered Room, 60ft. long.

Chief Instructor, PROFESSOR LIICH.

N.B.— Bicycles & Tricycles Sold on the Instalment System.

DESCRIPTIVE PRICE LIST and all particulars Post Free, or on application to either the Sheffield or London House.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882. 9

THE

NO. I "VIADUCT,"

44, 46,

On Wicksteed's Patent Double- purpose Stand. Reduced Price of Stand, 4/6

48, 50 INCH, COMPLETE FOR

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SPECIFICATIONS.

Stanley or Humber head and neck ; handle bar, 22 or 24 inches wide, with ebony or rose- wood handles ; best Lowmoor iron forks ; large flanged hubs, with from 50 to 60 direct spokes or nuts and nipples ; case- hardened, parallel or coned bearing ; best lap-welded back- bone ; spoon brake ; U or V steel rims ; rubber or rat-trap pedals ; hogskin saddle ; solid leather pocket ; patent wrench ; oil can and bell. Painted in two colours. If with single or double ball bearings, 20/- extra.

For the superiority of our Manufacture we were awarded the PRIZE MEDAL SYDNEY EXHIBITION, 1879, also MELBOURNE, 1881.

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THOMAS SMITH k SONS,

Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester, Bolton and Manchester.

LONDON BRANGH--61, H0LB0RN VIADUGT, E.G.

ESTABLISHED 1848.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882.

NOW READY!

THE THIRD ANNUAL XTRA

Xmas Number of The gyclist,

EDITED BY HENltY STUBMEY,

CONTAINING THE FOLLOWING

Articles, Christmas Tales, Romances, Adventurous Rides,

&c, &c. THE YEAR OF SPORT. By the Editor.

HOW I PROVED AN ALIBI. By William J. Bull, Minerva B.C. (Author of " Odds & Ends"). A WILD, WILD RIDE ; or, The Mystery of the Dead Hand. A Reminiscence of the

Great Meet of Bicyclists at Harrogate. By Walter Crompton, Capt. Warrington B.C. MY BICYCLING EXPERIENCE. By "Beachey Head." LONDON TO LEICESTER IN 189—. A Tale of the "German Occupation." By "Agonistes, '

Hampstead B.C. BOYCOTTED. A Night's Adventure. By T. H. Holding, Prest. B. T.C. A RIDE INTO DREAMLAND. By "B.," Canonbury B.C. LA SOMNAMbULA. By"W.J.C."

THE MYSTERY OP THE MANTEL-PIECE. By " Choey Sawtell," Sherborne B.C. AN ADVENTUROUS PIONEER RIDE IN AUSTRALIA. From Sydney, over the Blue

Mountains to the 'femora Gold Fields, 360 Miles through the Bush. By " J.W." THE CAPTAIN'S WIFE. By" Tommy B." THAT GARRULOUS STRANGER. By "Ab Initio."

THE EFFECTS OF A BEEF-STEAK SUPPER. Two Illustrations. By " Smangle, & 50 REWARD. By " Fabian." [Pickwick B.C.

CYCLISTS UNDER CANVAS ; or, Jottings from the Harrogate Camp. Twenty-five

Illustrations. By Lacy Hillier. OUR rOUNGEST MEMBER. By " Bab Yardlsy. A GLANCE AT OUR ADVERTISERS. By the Editor.

POEMS, BALLADS, RHYMES, &c.

INTRODUCTORY VERSES. By the Editor.

THE DOCTOR AND HIS TRICYCLE. Founded on Fact. By"W.N.M."

THE CRY OF HUNDREDS. By " Plated Treadles."

THE LEGEND OF SIR SCORCHALONG AND THE LADY POTOJAM. Eight Hlustra-

THE1 FENIAN'S RIDE, Dedicated to and Written for Harry J. Swindley. By "Agonistes,"

THE B.T.C. By "A Zingari." [Hampstead B.C.

OUR PRESIDENT'S GOOSE. By "August," B.T.C.

A DOGGEREL CATASTROPHE. By "A.R."

IN NINETEEN HUNDRED AND ONE. A Topical Bicycling Song. By " Tommy B."

CYCLING versus COURTSHIP. By " Aout."

NURSERY RHYMES. By 'Aout."

SMEARS, SMUDGES, SPOTS, AND SPLUTTERINGS. By "Algernon Sidney."

THE UNATTACHED CYCLIST. Being the Lamentations and Confessions of a Bachelor

Tricycle Rider. By "August," B.T.C. DELIGHTS OF THE WHEEL. By " Whiterms," B.T.C. OVER THE HANDLE-BAR. A Parody. By " W.W., Junr." A TRIBUTE. By " W.J.C."

ILLUSTRATIONS.

(In addition to the Illustrated Articles and Verses mentioned above.) Cover Sketch (illuminated in gold and eolotroi, Z?j»oM'i!ib£i&CE. Nothing like a Cheap Machine *Arry. Ye Boneshaker. Up-Hill. Down-Hill. A Disputed Point (allegorical of the Social Question). A Lady Tricycler of the Future. People who Won't Get Out of the Way. The Social Question. Rattling His Bones over the Stones. A Sketch om the Path. On His Milky Whey. A Rash Attempt. Legs Over (Six Illustrations). The Bicyclist ("According to the evidence usually given before Magistrates" and "According to facts"). Foiled. Hats. Feet. Another Grievance. Legs. Exploring. An Incident (Scenes I. and II.), and others.

Also "A Page of Puzzles," by " Faed's Australian Cousin," for the solution of which several prizes are offered. Conundrums. Odd Verses, <fcc, &c, &c.

PRICE ONE SHILLING.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882. n

THE LEICESTER TRICYCLE COMPANY,

Station Sard, lieieeater.

SOLE MANUFACTURERS OF KIRBY'S PATENTS.

THE SAFETY FOLDING TRICYCLE.

JFflE LEICESTER $/IFEW TOICYCIiEJS

are strong and light, and approach more nearly to the Bicycle than any other machines. They are built vertically; can be mounted and dismounted while in motion more easily and quickly than a bicycle ; are perfect automatic double drivers, either forwards or backwards ; are steered by one or both hands, and are easily stopped by a most powerful balance brake without loosing either of the steering handles. The folding Tricycle, without disturbing any of the working parts, or adding materially to the weight, can be reduced in a few s-econds to the verj narrow width of 15 inches.

Leicester

Safety

Rigid Tricycle.

Catalogues sent on receipt of Stamp.

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882.

Now Ready. The Cyclist's " Whittaker.'' Illustrated.

OJHEELMAN'S YEAR BOOK,

ALMANACK AND DIARY, 1882.

Edited by H. T. Round, and compiled by W. D. Welford. -

Club Register. Officers' Register. List of Presidents, #o, Club Championships. Formation of Clubs. Progress of Clubs. Racing Calendar. Indexes to Winners. Fastest Times. London Handicaps. English Bye-Laws.

Some Wheels of To-day, Making of Modern Bicycle. History during 188i of B.U. B.T.C., L.A.W., U.V.F-, &o

with Rulks, &o. Diary. Week on Page. Sun Rise and Sun Set. Rising and Setting of Moon. Almanack.

astk'inomical tables. Chronology.

Some Press Opinions on the 1SS1 Edition.

" The best thing of the kind yet producea.*'— Field. "Everything is done thoroughly."— Design aud Work. " By far the most uxeful book that has yet appeared."— Midland Athlete. "Never before has such a mas? of information been sold for that merely nominal coin." — The Cyclist.

PRICE ONE SHILLING,

Post free 15 stamps; or elegantly bound in cloth, gilt lottered, &c, 2s„ post free 2s. 4d.

Publisher, WALTER D. WELFORD, Pilgrim Street, Newcastle-on-Tyne.

EDGE BROTHERS,

113, GOLESHILL STREET, BIRMINGHAM,

MANUFACTURERS OF

BICYCLES & TRICYCLES,

ALSO BALLS FOR BEARINGS,

AND ALL KINDS OF FITTINGS AND PARTS.

ASK FOR JDGEjTsOUp PEDALS.

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The Wheel World Advertiser -fnic , 1SS2. ij

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A FIRST-CLASS BICYCLE AT A MODERATE PRICE.

WHERE CAN I GET IT? WHY FROM

WILLIAM ANDREWS,

5, STEELHOUSE LANE, BIRMINGHAM.

The cheapest Machine is not that which can be sold at the lowest price, but a thoroughly well-built sound Machine, made to the requirements of the owner, without unnecessary expenditure in decoration, will be the cheapest and most satisfactory to both manufacturer aud buyer.

You will make a mistake if you do not send at once for a Price List and Full Particulars to the above address.

SPECIALITY :

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ANDREWS' PATENT Latest Improvements in Bicycles, viz., NEW NECK AND PATENT PEDAL.

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Enable Bicyclists and Tricyclists to ride in Trousers in all weathers without inconvenience. Cannot rust ; do not spoil the trousers ; can be put on in a second, and detached as quickly ; and can be carried in the waistcoat pocket.

DIRECTIONS FOR USE.

Place the hand upon the ankle, fold the trouser over in one fold, and fix the fastener across so as to hold it in position ; securing one end first, and then the other.

ONI PENNY EACH.

THE MOST USEFUL NOVELTY OF THE YEAK.

To be obtained of all Agents throughout the Kingdom; or Wholesale from '"The Cyclist" Office, Coventry.

Sample Paib, Post Fkee, Theee Stamps.

BICYCLE TYRES,

Wholesale, or in single sets as required. Cement from Is. 6d. per lb. Pedal Rubber, &c.

Waterproof Bicycle Cape, in Bag, for 5/6; by Post, 6/-

WATEBPROOF COLLARS, &c.

Write for Price List to the

EAST LONDON RUBBER CO.,

3, GREAT EASTERN STREET, E.C.,

H

The Wheel World Advertiser — June, 1882.

THE

Coventry Machinists' Co., Li,

MAKERS & INVENTORS OF

The Perfect Roadster,

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WITH PATENT

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LISTS ON APPLICATION.

WORKS : COVENTRY.

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Branches '.Manchester: 9, victoria Bondings.

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The Wheel World Advertiser— June, 1882.

HE WHEEL WORLD.

CONTENTS FOR JUNE.

PAGE

)sts 49

?he Decadence of Clubs, and a suggested method of improvement 50

Jy the Eoadside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

How the Wheel World 'Wags ' " . . 58

Fottings from the Emerald Isle 61

)ng of the Irate Tricyclist 62

imongst the Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

Jlub Directory 66

!?he Eailroad Velocipede 73

tmateur Kacing Record . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Cutting the Records in the U.S.A 77

A Long Bicycle Ride in New Zealand 79

Cycling Celebrities. — No. 9. Mr. R. H. Leslie 81

Roving Records. — A Ride through Donegal . . . . . . 82

Gravel and Cinders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Midland Whispers 87

Mr. Butterworth's Choice 89

Correspondence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Patent Record . . . . 93

GOOD THINGS!!

THE CYCLIST XMAS NUMBER,

64 Pages, over 80 Illustrations in gold and colours. The best Cycling publication ever issued,

NOW READY, ONE SHILLING,

THE CYCLIST AnFwHEEL^ ANNUAL.

Statistical Information, Humorous Sketches, Rhymes, Rides and Adventures. Over 500 ILLUSTRATIONS. Now Ready.

ONE SHILLING, by post 1/3.

P^CIPIiM3?0F 4- T^I^a

FOK

Amateur Athletes, with special regard to Bicyclists.

Illustrated. By H.L. CORTIS (Amateur Champion at all Distances, 1880). Ready shortly.

PRICE ONE SHILLING, POST FREE 1/2.

ORDER EARLY!

ILIPFE & SON, COVENTRY.

16 The Wheel World Advertiser — jfune, 1882.

NOTE I I I

THE TRICYCLISTS'

indispensable Annual***

AND HANDBOOK,

A GUIDE TO THE PASTIME AND COMPLETE CYCLOPEDIA ON THE SUBJECT,

BY HENRY STURMEY,

Author of " The Indispensable Bicyclists' Handbook," Editor of The Cyclist, &c, dkc,

IS NOW READYII!

IT CONTAIN S—

SECTION S.— The Pros and Cows of the Tricycle, with General Notes on Construction

and Principles of Design. SECTION II.— Complete Analysis of the Tricycle,'with descriptions and illustrations

of all the new methods of driving gear, hill climbing arrangements, and other

patents connected with tricycle construction. SECTION III.— A Glance at the Tricycle Trade of the United Kingdom. Full and

illustrated descriptions of nearly 200 machines, "being all the leading mounts of

the year. Comparative view of Prices, Sizes, Running powers, Weights, Widths,

and Methods of Driving of every machine described. SECTION IV.— The Tricycle— How to take care of it— How to ride it— How to select it. SECTION V.— Tricycle Racing in 1881. The Championship Ride. Tricycle Clubs. The

Bicycle Union. The Touring Club. Directory of Tricycle Manufacturers. ADDENDA of latest novelties.

250 PAGES OF DESCRIPTIVE MATTER! 175 ILLUSTRATIONS!!

Demy 8vo. Containing nearly double the amount of information given in the last edition.

PRICE ONE SHILLING AND SIXPENCE,

Post free from the Publishers, Iliffe c& Son, " The Cyclist" Office, Coventry.

Also of all Booksellers, Newsagents, Railway Bookstalls, and Cycle Depots, from the Publishers as above, or from the Wholesale Agents :

LONDON: H. ETHERINGTON, 152, Fleet

BIRMINGHAM: C. J. NUTT &-: Co., Smallbrook Street.

EDINBURGH: E. BREMNER, 4, West

Register Street. MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA: T. A.

EDWARDS, 12, Collins St., West.

N.Bi— The Sole' American Publishers of this work are

THE OVERMAN WHEEL COMPANY, COURANT BUILDINGS, HARTFORD, CONN.,

Through whom all U.S.Ai orders( both wholesale and retail, must pass,

$0. 2G. Wal 5- L^6ff^Wi Uttiw, 1SS2

FROSTS.

0 mention frost in the present sultry season may not perhaps be out of place, but the "frosts" to which we propose to refer are not those of the refrigerating kind, but are rather the results of the special efforts of "warm members." Of course in every line of life there are " frosts." These do not necessarily imply an intention of wilfully humbug- ging anyone ; a " frost " may be a simple failure from natural or legitimate causes, or it may be the organised plan to " rush " the public without coming within the pale of the law. When it does this, it ceases to be a " frost." If we except horse racing or pedestrianism, very few sports have had more " frosts " to contend against than has bicycling. It has pervaded every branch of the pastime. 1 st, we have the mushroom club, which is kept afloat solely for the glorification of a few men who are at once the officers, committee, and the club. We have had race-meeting frosts, musical and dramatic entertainment frosts, dinner frosts — a table laid for 80 and under 20 turning up — we have had ex- hibition frosts, circulation frosts, advertisement frosts, and press notice frosts, amongst which we may fairly class published notices of book B., which referred solely to book A.., and appeared in a journal which had died before book B. was published. With such a heap of palpable frosts ever apparent to the reading and musing cycling public, we can hardly wonder that mushroom clubs are on the growth. It was a letter received by us from a South London clubman on this subject that suggested our article of this month. He asks us to raise our " powerful voice " to put down mushroom clubs.. We gladly add our mite to such an effort, but looking to the inability of the general press of the country to put down " frosts " in every- day life, we fear the task is too Brobdignagian to ensure success even in wheel circles. When men find that they can " frost " the wheel public by palpable false statements, one can hardly wonder that the comparatively small " frost " of the establishment ox mushroom clubs is a matter of easy accomplishment. What wheelmen should do is to consider every question as it arises on its merits, and to think it out for himself. A. says he gives the

5o THE WHEEL WORLD.

best article, and that he sells thousands of his wares. Let the con- templative wheelmen consider if such is likely to be the case, having regard to what he himself can judge of the quality of A.'s wares, and if he can reconcile the two facts, let him adopt them in their entirety. On the other hand, if A. is palpably wrong, let him consider everything such an one does from a " frosty " point of view. So on, if B. forms a club, buys a uniform, and gets a few personal friends to do ditto, and then ends there, B.'s effort is a frost pure and simple. On the other hand, if B. establish a small club by the means we have named, and it eventually be- comes a strong one, even to the extinction of an older society in the same district, it simply proves that B. was an organising genius, who, failing to get recognition elsewhere, took means of his own to secure it. B. would only be applying the acknowledged principle in force in every business, viz., fair competition. If B., however, tried to establish his new club by personally slandering the officials of any existent club, his conduct would exceed the fair bounds of competition, and be worthy of denunciation. Fail- ing this, however, we cannot see why B. should not try to found his club, nor can we point to a better example than the weekly paper issued from this office, and known as The Cyclist. Starting from scratch in the field, had it been deterred from perseverance for fear of being termed "mushroom," cyclists would not have had their news weekly, as they now have, for one penny ! We leave it to the readers of the "pushing pennorth" to determine whether the manner it is conducted is to their taste or not — that is their affair ; but we can, with pardonable pride, certainly assert that amongst the numerous bicycling ventures yet started it is not lo be classed as a literary " frost."

THE DECADENCE OF CLUBS, AND A SUGGESTED METHOD OF IMPROVEMENT.

By John A. Williamson, Tynemouth B.C.

HE question of the decadence of clubs has often been discussed, and the general opinion appears to be that this state of things is caused by the inactivity of the officers, and the younger " blood " not being put in their place. With this I agree, and I think that a little exertion on the part of the officers, put forth on untrodden paths, would tend to increase the interest taken in the club by the members. Tricycling has of late taken a great hold upon the wheel world, and at the present time appears as the only rival to the bicycle as

THE WHEEL WORLD. 51

a mode of iself-locomotion. This being the case it would well repay the officers of a club to purchase one for the use of the mem- bers. A double, or Sociable tricycle, would be the most suitable, and as it has considerable advantage over the single one, both in the ease of propulsion and in the pleasure of having company, it will soon be better appreciated than it is at present. As the method of governing a club tricycle presents, at first sight, certain difficulties, I would suggest the following plan to those who might at some future time go in for one — of course it is a sine qua non that the club has about £30 to spare : —

Let the club purchase a good Sociable tricycle from one of the best makers, and not fall into the mistaken idea that a cheap machine will stand the work of a club. The price will be about £25, and no doubt a discount will be given off this amount, which will pay for lamps and other incidentals. The machine should be painted, enamelled/ or plated all over, and no bright parts should be exposed upon it. The width of the trike will demand a proper house, unless the club are possessed of a stable or other suitable place ; or, if the club house is detached, a good way would be to erect the house against it, which would not cost more than £5. This is all the expense the club would be put to, and the charge levied for the hire of the machine would not only return good interest, but in the space of two or three years would repay the principal sum to the club. Two shillings, I think, is a reasonable charge for a whole day.

As breakages will occur, it will be necessary that the rules should state that a person hiring the tricycle should only be held responsible for an accident which is not the result of fair wear and tear.

A tricycle honorary secretary will have to be appointed, and it will be his duty to take charge of the house key, look after the '* tolls," and keep the application book in which the members write down the date on which they wish the machine.

To make club runs more enjoyable the "bus" should accompany the club on their Saturday afternoon excursions.

The following would be the routine to obtain the tricycle : — A., who wants the machine say for next Friday evening, goes to the tricycle secretary, sees the application book, and if it is not pre- viously booked for that date, puts his name down. On the Friday evening he comes for the key, and, after paying the specified sum, obtains it, and then gets out the trike.

Clubs differ as to the companions a member is allowed to take with him, but a good rule is that the companion should be either a member of the club, or a relative residing in the same house with him.

52 THE WHEEL WORLD.

All persons who have tried a Sociable are loud in its praises, and the ease and sociability which is adherent to it reminds one of what we may expect in 1901. The bicycle only surpasses it on long hills and rough roads, while for comfort and sociability it is unexcelled. It is about the same width as a carriage, and runs easily in the ruts.

The above hints will, I trust, assist any club readers who wish to go in for a " bus," and the small trouble which they require is indeed a tittle compared with the large amount of pleasure derived by the members and their friends from " the club bus."

BY THE ROADSIDE.

The scene is a country road, at the top of a long, rough, and steep hill. The hedges are thick with honeysuckle and wild -roses, while the air is heavy with the scent of flowers. It is about three o'clock ■upon a hot summer's afternoon. A bicyclist comes slowly up the ascent, pushing his machine in front of him. He is hot, thirsty, dirty, dusty, and wants shaving. When he reaches the top he throws him- self full-length upon the grass, on the shady side of the way, and gives a great sigh of relief. Then he talks to himself somewhat in the following manner : —

By Jove ! how hot it is ! I feel quite above boiling-point, and I'm as dry as a bone. Of all the vile roads I have ever come across in the course of my five years' bicycling, I think this is the very vilest. It possesses all the attributes of evil, except ugliness. Hardly a couple of miles of level during the whole day's journey, dust quite three inches deep, ruts fit to upset a king, stones as numerous as the flies have been all morning, holes oi Gargantuan proportions, calculated to ruin one's nervous system for ever and a day, and hills steeper than Pelion piled on Ossa and Olympus. Certainly every- thing on all sides is beautiful, and charming for human eyes to dwell on — if they were not too full of dust, and so much occupied in trying to ward off accidents. The birds, too, have been singing, with their hearts in their throat, in a manner which would induce the veriest croaker to try his hand, or rather his want of voice, at a chorus — if his gullet were not as parched as the Great Sahara. What would I not give for a drink ! I would take anything at this moment, and that right gladly ; but if I were so favoured as to be allowed a choice, I think cider and lemonade, with a lump of ice and a straw, would as nearly as possible " raise me to the gods, the lords of earth." But what is the use of this wild dreaming ? It is quite five miles to the next village, with small chance of an inn between here and there, as I have wandered from the beaten track. Perhaps I may come across some brook, or a farm-house. At farm-houses there is generally milk — but this sort of thing won't do, or I shall

THE WHEEL WORLD. 53

get more thirsty than ever. I think I will try a pipe, if mine own is not too dry to suck at it. That's better! (a long pause). How cool the grass is to one's cheek ! And what a comical little spider that is! I shan't hurt you, old man, so don't be alarmed. But, good heavens ! ants — heaps of 'em, as I'm a living sinner. But perhaps they will not bite me, so I don't think I'll move — it is too comfortable for that. I think I hear some one coming ; yes, I thought so. A maiden, too, and with a milk-pail. Oh, Jupiter ! may she vouchsafe it, give me of it one little drop !

A young rustic maiden comes down the road, carrying a large can of spring water. She is strong and fair, and her golden hair has broken from its bands. In her other hand she has flowers.

He : Good afternoon ! May I ask for a drop of water, as the day is such a hot one ?

She : Certainly, sir. But I have no cup, and the can is not fit for you.

He : I can manage very well, thank you. [He takes a long, deep drink.) Ah ! now I feel considerably better. Just one more. I am like the great Pantagruel, all thirsty. Ha! ha! Richard is himself again ! I thank you, gentle maiden.

She : You are quite welcome, sir. You do look hot. Have you come far on that — that — I don't remember what they are called.

He : That dusty and rather seedy-looking object with two wheels, rejoices in the name of " bicycle." It is the great invention of the age, and is the descendant of the ancient velocipede, which, in the vulgar tongue, was often termed " philosopher" — a name which still Sticks. It is inappropriate, too, for the last thing a philosopher would do would be to go rushing all over the country as a bicycle does. But have you never seen one before ?

She : Yes, once or twice. Last year a young gentleman rode down this hill, and he fell off — he was thrown against the wall at the bottom, and killed. His mother came.

He : Poor mother !

She : Yes, it was hard for his mother. But do you really like riding about the country on the top of that, sir ?

He : I really like it. In fact I " go in" for it a great deal. I am secretary of our club, don't you know, and also a consul of the Bicycle Touring Club.

She : What is that ?

He : Child ! do you mean to say seriously that you never heard of the B.T.C. ?

She : Never.

He : How truly sad ! Why, it is the greatest, the best, jolliest, happiest, funniest, pleasantest, and altogether nicest club in the world. Then you don't know what a Consul is ? or a Representa- tive Councillor ? or the club Gazette ? Have you ever been to school ?

She : Sir ! Of course I have. I hope I can read and write as well as anyone in our village ! School, indeed !

54 THE WHEEL WORLD.

He : Pardon me, I have been rude. But I thought that everyone. must know all about the B.T.C. Then, perhaps, you know nothing about the Bicycle Union ?

She : No, sir.

He : Woe is me : I am on the Executive, and plenty of work I have to do. I am afraid you are sadly ignorant concerning matters bicycular. Does no one ride in your village ?

She : We have our work to do.

He : You are pleased to be sarcastic !

She : I do not know what you mean. I am only a poor farmer's daughter, and cannot understand your strange talk. We all have to work here, and even then it is sometimes hard to live.

He : I meant nothing, gentle maiden : I seldom do. I laugh, and talk, and pull along somehow, and I have not found the world so bad after all. Tell me, did you ever hear of the Kyrle Society? You shake your head. It is a great and glorious society, which has been formed for the express purpose of finding a channel into which all the superfluous energy of young ladies may be turned ; and all this energy is for the benefit of the poor people. They paint for the poor, sing to the poor, and give flowers to the poor. They sing to the children in the hospitals ; which is good. They paint pictures for the hospital walls ; which are generally bad. Oh ! it is a great society.

She : I do not think you mean what you say.

He : Well, child, I do, and I do not. I am not asking you a riddle. I mean that a few of the Kyrlists are in earnest, and a great many of them are merely playing at it. Do you see ? But, come, you cannot mean to tell me that you have never heard of aestheticism, and never seen an aesthete ?

She : Never. What does it all mean ?

He : Well, strictly speaking, aesthetics is the science which treats of the beautiful in nature or art.

She : Then this honeysuckle is aesthetic ?

He : In a way, yes. But now-a-days it is nothing but a catch word, of which nearly everyone is sick. Novels have been written about it, plays have been written about it, and songs have been written about it. Everyone laughs and jeers about it. Nobody knows anything about it. Nobody ever saw a real aesthete, only the imitations of him, and this is mainly due to Mr. Punch.

She : I've seen him, only a few days ago, on the green.

He : I don't mean the gentleman who goes about in a show, and bangs around with a stick. The Punch I am speaking of is a paper, a comic one, with pictures. So regularly for the last four years has Mr. Punch trotted out men and women whom he has dubbed aesthetes, and so absurd has he made them, that no one dare admire anything. If you say that you are fond of sun-flowers or lilies people roar with laughter, and tell you you are " bitten." And so Punch has helped considerably to crush a love of art and nature, because the majority of people — who, as Carlyle says, are mostly

THE WHEEL WORLD. 55

fools — do not know the difference between good and bad art ; and so they must laugh at everything.

She : I don't know anything about art. I like flowers, and trees, and birds, and things out-of-doors.

He : You are wise. I know nothing about art either, but I do as you do. I like to see things, hear things, and feel things. I like to be out in the open. I like a pipe, a glass, and a laugh. I like people — some of them. I like animals — most of them. I like flowers — all of them. But do you have no amusements here, nothing to