the ball is liable to slip; if too near, the object of the cut is not as easily attained. The block should be done within half a foot; the cover, when the ball is about a crosse’s length. In the two former, keep the handle advanced to prevent the rise of the ball. If a grounder is coming slow, and the chances are safe, go out and meet it; but this, however necessary, requires the utmost caution.
Grounders may be caught when blocked, but never risk a catch or a block when an opponent is close to the crease.
Hoppers—Are generally hard to meet, because they rise so unexpectedly from a short distance. You get absorbed in the attitude and mode for stopping some certain ball, when suddenly it strikes a ridge or lump, and ricochets into the flags quicker than you can recover. Hoppers generally rise at points between your breast and hips, and you should always be on your guard against them, as no ground is to be trusted.
Straight balls.—If swift, keep your ground; if medium or slow, move out to meet them. Remember, these are the most difficult to stop, in the following order:—1. An inch or two above the navel; 2.
