RUNNING IN SACKS.

PLATE XXXI.

THIS is a sport the performers in which act more for the amusement of the spectators than for their own. A prize, consisting of a smock frock, a new hat, or something of that kind, is the reward of the person who first reaches the goal. As many as present themselves are allowed to compete; and when the competitors are numerous, the scene is indescribably ludicrous.

A certain space of ground, selected generally on account of the irregularity of its surface, is marked out, at the end of which the goal or winning post is erected. The runners are enclosed from the bottom of the feet to the neck in sacks, in which the hands are also confined, and the sack is then fastened round the neck.

At a given signal, they all start, but at a speed very disproportioned to their wishes. Some, with all their eagerness and efforts to advance,

remain jumping and striving without making visible progress; some again, become prostrate at the very outset; and others, having apparently no guidance of themselves, jostle against their neighbours, and speedily cover the ground with the fallen.

These constant mishaps and the unsuccessful attempts of the prostrate to rise, excite the risible faculties of the spectators, who endeavour, by shouts and applause, to reanimate the panting rustics to renewed exertions.