Page:The Cricket Field (1854).djvu/121

Rh match p. p. for fifty guineas. Oh the day appointed Mr. Brand proved my opponent. He was a fast bowler. I went in first, and, scoring seventy runs with some severe blows on the legs,—nankeen knees and silk stockings, and no pads in those days,—I consulted a friend and knocked down my own wicket, lest the match should last to the morrow, and I be unable to play. Mr. Brand was out without a run! I went in again and making the 70 up to 100, I once more knocked down my own wicket, and once more my opponent failed to score!!

The flag was flying—the signal of a great match—and a large concourse were assembled; and, considering Mr. Ward, a good judge, made the match, this is probably the most hollow victory on record.

But Osbaldeston's victory was far more satisfactory. Lord Frederick with Beldham made a p. p. match with Osbaldeston and Lambert. "On the day named," said Budd, "I went to Lord Frederick, representing my friend was too ill to stand, and asked him to put off the match. "No; play or pay," said his Lordship, quite inexorable. "Never mind," said Osbaldeston, "I won't forfeit: Lambert may beat them both; and, if he does, the fifty guineas shall be his."—I asked Lambert how he felt "Why," said he, "they are anything but safe."—His Lordship wouldn't