never mind till next over.' I don't believe in that doctrine. I would have the field altered then and there, as the thing may come off that very ball. Delays are dangerous; and, as a great general said, 'There is a moment to decide a victory.' Though you should have a captain in the field (as you ought to have, for what is every one's business is never well done), it is proper for him to say to the bowler, 'Don't you think it would be better to do so and so?' It makes it appear as if somebody knew something as well as himself, and there is always a way of speaking to a fielder, so that it will be pleasant for him to receive it, unless it be one of those shake yourself sort of men that seem to do everything reluctantly; with him you must do as well as you can. These little things always create a good feeling.
I have one more remark: I like to see every man steady at work. I am sure that every one has enough to do when at play in minding his own business, without gossiping or being careless. I used to admire a certain Gentleman, that has left off playing this last two or three years, at the change over, walking across the wicket as steady as old Time, and when I was starting to bowl, just glancing round the field to see if they were all ready. There he was sure to be, with his eye on every one to see if all was right. There is plenty of time for a little funny saying or something to laugh at, when a man is out, without keeping every one waiting between each over.
III. The science of Batting
First, you should try to get that firm yet easy position that best suits you, so that you may have the freedom of action so requisite for both hitting the bad and middling balls, and defending the wickets from the good ones; and not be so fixed that you are only prepared to play or hit one or two particular balls. It is the man that hits all round, that is prepared to play the ball on the side it comes, that makes the awkward customer for
