PREFACE 



A FEW LINES only are necessary to explain the object 

 with which these volumes are put forth. There is no 

 modern encyclopaedia to which the inexperienced man, 

 who seeks guidance in the practice of the various British 

 Sports and Pastimes, can turn for information. Some 

 books there are on Hunting, some on Racing, some on 

 Lawn Tennis, some on Fishing, and so on ; but one 

 Library, or succession of volumes, which treats of the 

 Sports and Pastimes indulged in by Englishmen — and 

 women — is wanting. The Badminton Library is offered 

 to supply the want. Of the imperfections which must 

 be found in the execution of such a design we are con- 

 scious. Experts often differ. But this we may say, 

 that those who are seeking for knowledge on any of the 

 subjects dealt with will find the result of many years' 

 experience written by men who are in every case adepts 

 at the Sport or Pastime of which they write. It is to 



