1605.] WALLACY OR FARNDON ? 335 



The following description of a picture of horse- 

 racing " in the seventeenth century," preserved at 

 Leasowe Castle, near Birkenhead, Cheshire, ,„„, 



c. 1605. 



was communicated by the late Col. the Hon. Qy. Waiiacy 

 Sir Edward Cust, Bart, K.C.H., F.R.S. (to 

 whom it belonged), to the Historic Society of Lanca- 

 shire and Cheshire, and published in the ist vol. of 

 their Proceedings: Liverpool, 1849, pp. 143-145. 



" This picture represents the sport of horse-racing in the 

 seventeenth century. As a work of art it is below mediocrity, 

 but the authenticity of its antiquity is evidenced by some 

 details, which prove it to be genuine. The scene of the 

 background is uncertain, but probably a remarkable hill in 

 the distance may make it known to any one well versed 

 in topography, who has travelled much in England. The 

 trees would not put to shame those of our Hundred of 

 Wirrall ; but there is no pretension to suppose that there 

 is any certain connection between the scene of this picture 

 and this immediate neighbourhood ; indeed, the scene may 

 be altogether ideal. 



" The race appears awkwardly represented, inasmuch as 

 the winning-post is placed between the contending horses. 

 The jockeys are singularly dressed, but are distinguished 

 from each other by the colour of the jacket and cap, as at 

 this day. In the group to the right of the picture, King 

 James I. is easily recognized in a bonnet and rufif ; and in a 

 position in front of the crowd, but amongst those who follow, 

 one appears to be smarter — both horse and rider — is thought 

 to be the king's son. Prince Charles. To the left of the 

 picture is seen a nobleman, or country gentleman, with one 

 attendant. What is the most interesting in the several 



this race was to have the bell, and and have it for n'cr, is implied, that 

 it had formerly been used as a temporary mark of honour, by the suc- 

 cessful horseman, and afterwards returned to the corporation ; this altera- 

 tion was made April 23, a.d. 1624." 



