PREFACE.

Na work of this character, but small preface is needed, the title

of the book being its own preface.

The Editor believes that in the pages of "The Boy's Modern Playmate" are found the rules and modes of playing every game which is in vogue at the present day, besides those of games which have yet to make their way, and of those which have been neglected, but will assuredly resume the position which they once occupied. For example, the simple and almost abandoned game of "Rounders" has risen to a science under the name of "Base Ball"; while such as Hockey, Football, Cricket, Lawn Tennis, and La Crosse, are given as they now exist after many years of practice have reduced their varied rules to a common standard.

Such accomplishments as Archery, Boating, Sailing, Shooting, Fishing, Swimming, Skating, Bicycling, Tricycling, and Pedestrianism, have been entrusted to Authors equally skilful in practice and theory; while the whole of the series entitled "The Young Workman" has been written by gentlemen who have been trained to their various subjects.

The department which includes Science has been executed by gentlemen who have obtained a wide reputation by their practical and theoretical knowledge; such names as Adams, Cherrill, Cooke, Drayson,

Preece, and Rowsell, being a sufficient guarantee for the excellence of

their work.

The entire volume has been superintended by those who have had very many years' experience of English boys and their games, and the Editor confidently trusts that a book of this nature-original in every possible point-will supply a hitherto existing want, and become the constant companion of every one who desires to become a

MODERN PLAYMATE.

NOTE TO THE REVISED EDITION.

A Modern Playmate should be up to date. This new edition contains the latest authorised laws of every outdoor sport now played in this country; and in every other particular is abreast of playground practice at the month of publication. Owing to the growth in popularity of some pastimes, and the decline of others a complete re-arrangement of the book was inevitable, but in finding room for the additions it is hoped that nothing valuable of the old matter has been sacrificed to make room for the new.