212 On the Use and Abtise of^ &c. 



both as exercises of pastime, as well as means 

 of offense and defence. In order therefore to 

 abolish all traces of the savage mode of con- 

 ^test which has been 50 fully described, would 

 it not be advisable to hold forth prizes, at wakes 

 and public amusements, (where the populace 

 assemble chiefly for the purpose of diversion 

 and pastime) for the encouragement of those, 

 who excelled in sparring with mufflers ? — 

 This trial of skill, force and agility (which 

 was at first tihe practice pf the antients) would 

 contribute j tnider due regulatwTis, to invi- 

 gorate the body and animate the courage; and 

 effectually abolish the present dangerous and 

 inhuman mediod of deciding personal contents 



