STAGE-COACHES OF THE PERIOD. 189 



of The Chequers, we resumed our journey. All 

 through the distance this coach is admirably horsed, 

 and when Mr. Freeman springs his high-mettled 

 horses, up the rising ground, galloping at full speed, 

 the coach travelling as steadily as possible, you feel 

 that you are sitting by the side of an accomplished 

 whip. Most exhilarating is a spurt like this, when you 

 have confidence in the coachman who can take a 

 liberty with his team. Passing by way of Handcross 

 we reach Cuckfield, where we change again, and then, 

 on by Friar's Oak, run into Brighton, where we arrive 

 at The Old Ship as the hand on the clock points to six, 

 the hour fixed. 



Brighton is seen at its best, and I am glad to hear 

 there is every prospect of a good season, more houses 

 being let at this early period than have been for 

 several years past. At 12 o'clock on Monday the 

 coach drew up, the ribbons being handled on the return 

 journey by that consummate artist, J. Thorogood, 

 by whose side it is a treat to sit and watch the quiet 

 way in which he handles his horses. Never mind how 

 fresh they may be and the Brighton coach-horses 

 are fresh, and in fine condition too they soon subside 

 and settle down to their work; and again we are 

 going the pace, Thorogood following Mr. Freeman's 

 example, springing his willing horses on every bit of 

 rising ground, and keeping time to a minute at every 

 stage. At Croydon Mr. Chandos Pole met us and 

 took the reins for the stage into London, handling the 

 splendid team that works this part of the ground in 

 right good form, proving himself to be as good on the 

 bench as he is in the saddle when sailing across 

 Leicestershire. Colonel Stacey Clitheroe is joint 



