to a part of the game that is oft-times a very tedious and annoying
feature. How often do we see the striker, the moment his predecessor
has made his first base, stand still at the home base and await the
moment when the player on the first base can avail himself of the
failure of either the pitcher or catcher to hold the ball while tossing
it backward and forward to each other. Some catchers—chiefly among
boys, however—actually stand to the right of the home base purposely
for this style of game; and even when the pitcher and catcher are
inclined to do their duty, the batsman is not, and the latter is
frequently allowed to stop the progress of the game by his refusal to
strike at good balls, under the plea that they do not suit him, when
it is apparent to all that he simply wants to allow his partner to
get to his second base. In every respect it is preferable to play the
game manfully, and without resorting to any such trickery as this,
which not only tires the spectator, but detracts from the merit of the
game itself. Even under the new rule of pitching this unfair play was
practiced last season. It is to be hoped that umpires will do their
duty this year, and put an entire stop to it, which they have the power
to do.]
SEC. 41. Every match hereafter made shall be decided by the best two
games out of three, unless a single game shall be mutually agreed upon
by the contesting clubs.
ON THE SELECTION AND MEASURING OF A GROUND.
IT is of the greatest importance that a Base Ball ground should be
perfectly level and as free as possible from all obstructions in the
shape of irregularities, stones, &c., and a fine, short turf will be
found to add materially to the comfort of the players. The length of
the field should be 600 feet, while the breadth about 400. The home
base or batter’s stand, should be 70 feet from the head of the field.
The space between the home base and the catcher’s stand, must be firmly
packed earth as hard and level as a billiard table. The bases should
be square blocks of wood covered with a double thickness of canvas and
they are sometimes stuffed with hair to prevent accidents from falling,
and here let us suggest that one point be not overlooked in preparing
the ground, that is the erection of seats protected by an awning, for
the accommodation of the “fair sex,” who manifest great interest in
this game, and whose presence never fails to inspire the players with
renewed ardor.
The bases should be firmly secured by leathern straps passing
completely around them. The simplest method of laying out your ground
is to first determine the point of your home base. Then measure down
the field 127 feet 4 inches, which will give the position of your
second base. Then taking a cord 180 feet in length and fastening either
end to the second and home bases, by grasping the center and extending
it to the right and left you have the points of your first and third
bases. You have now found a square whose sides are 90 feet. Then draw
a line from the home to second base, and at a point 45 feet from the
former will be the pitcher’s first point, and three feet further on the
same line his second point.
Posts painted white, and elevated from the ground so as to be
distinctly seen by the umpire, are placed on a line with the home and
first base, and home and third base, at least 100 feet from the bases.
These are termed “foul ball posts,” and are used by the umpire in his
decisions in reference to foul balls.
[Illustration: DIAGRAM OF BASE BALL FIELD.]
PITCHER’S POINT AND HOME BASE.
BOTH the pitcher’s point and the home base are indicated by iron quoits
not less than nine inches in diameter and painted white, secured by
means of iron spikes from beneath. A plank six feet in length, two
inches in width, and inserted in the earth six or eight inches deep,
with enough edge above ground so that it may be distinctly seen by the
umpire, marks the line of the pitcher’s position.
ON THE USE OF THE BAT.
ALL bats and balls used are made regulation size, and the bats of
different woods as may suit the striker. For a light bat the English
willow is prized by many, as its tough, close fibre recommends it to
the heavy batter, as well as the ease with which it can be wielded.
With those who prefer a heavier bat the ash and hickory are favorites.
A light bat is generally preferred to a heavier one as it meets a
swiftly pitched ball with greater promptness. There are nearly as many
different modes of handling the bat as there are players. We see some
grasping it with the left hand on the handle, and sliding the right
swiftly down the bat. Others take the bat near the middle, others swing
it with a long sweeping stroke, while still another class hold it as in
Cricket, pointing to the ground.
It is not so necessary to strike a powerful blow as to hit with
quickness, and at the same time maintain a firm and natural position.
It is not the heaviest, who make the most powerful batters. Stand with
the foot on the line of the striker’s position, and be prepared to
strike as soon as the ball leaves the pitcher’s hand.
DESCRIPTION OF THE GAME.
IN order to play the game of Base Ball, nine players of a side are
necessary, one side taking the bat and the other the field. Their
relative positions are generally determined by tossing a coin. A full
game consists of nine innings to each side, an inning lasting until
three players are “put out,” either at the bat or while running the
bases, as will be seen by referring to the rules. The side scoring the
largest number of runs during the game is declared victorious. The list
of fielders comprise catcher, pitcher, first, second and third basemen,
short stop, right, center and left fieldsmen. When each one is in his
appointed place, the captain of the fielding nine calls out “ready,”
to which the umpire promptly responds “play!”—and upon the first ball
which leaves the pitcher’s hand the game commences.
The batsman or striker stands at the home base on a line drawn through
its center, parallel to one extending from first to third base
and extending three feet on each side of it. The batsman requires
considerable judgment to assist him in effectually striking at balls.
He must have a quick eye and ready hand to meet the deceptive pitching
of an experienced player. If these qualities are wanting he may find
himself suddenly caught out on a “foul tip,” or forced ingloriously
to retire on a “three strike.” As soon as the ball is struck, it is
the duty of a batsman to run at once for the first base, and should he
arrive there before the ball reaches the baseman he is said to have
“made his base.” Many players acquire the habit of pausing to watch the
course of a ball which may possibly fall within the “foul lines,” or if
an “air ball” be struck, waiting to see if it is caught by a fielder,
before he starts for his base. This is wrong, as if it prove a “foul,”
the umpire will announce it in time for the player to return, and
should the “fly ball” be missed or “muffed,” the player is well on his
way to the base. Upon reaching his base, the striker is succeeded by
the next batsman on the list, and when three of these are “put out,”
the fielders take their turn at the bat. A run is scored by a player
touching in succession the four bases, avoiding being himself touched
by the ball while running. A home run is made by his hitting the ball
to such a distance that he makes the four bases before it is returned.
In case of a tie at the close of the ninth inning the game may be
prolonged until one or the other of the contestants obtain the most
runs on even innings.
Should anything occur to put a stop to the game, before five innings
have been played by each side the game is declared drawn. For all other
necessary particulars in regard to the game, the reader is referred to
the preceding rules and regulations.
FIELD POSITIONS.
1. The Catcher.
THE duty of this player is to catch or stop all balls pitched or
thrown to the home base. To fill this position properly, requires no
small measure of dexterity and skill, always on the alert to secure
foul bounds and tips, with a vigilant eye to the bases, together with
precision and power in throwing to them, the catcher’s position is so
important that he is generally chosen captain of the nine.
After a striker has made his first base, the catcher should advance
toward the pitcher and stand directly behind the bat so as to take the
balls before they bound and by throwing swiftly at the second base cut
off a player from making that base. When a ball is batted high to long
field and several fielders run to catch it, he should distinctly call
the fielder by name whom he thinks surest to take it, when the others
should pause, and strive only to take it on the bound, should it be
missed on the fly.
2. The Pitcher.
THE position of the player is behind a line four yards in length,
drawn at right angles from the home to second base, at a distance of
45 feet from the former base. Four feet in the rear of this line, in
another parallel to it and in the space between these two must the
pitcher stand, immediately before, and while delivering the ball.
Both feet must be firmly planted on the ground while he is pitching,
and he should be careful not to jerk or throw the ball, but deliver
it directly over the home base and for the striker. The pitcher is
frequently called upon to supply the places of basemen while they are
fielding, and it is of great importance that he should be a ready
catcher and good fielder. A ball pitched at a high rate of speed, and
at the same time containing a bias or “twist” will prove the most
effective. As this position calls for a great amount of physical labor,
some person who is not easily fatigued should be selected to fill it.
3. The Short Stop.
The duties of this player are many and arduous, and his position
the most dangerous one on the field. He stands in the center of the
triangle formed by the second and third bases and pitcher’s position,
though he should vary his position according to his knowledge of
different player’s style of batting. It is to this spot that nearly
all the swiftly batted ground balls come, which require more nerve and
practice to stop than any other. Upon securing the ball the short
stop should pass it swiftly to whatever base a player may be running
for, generally to the first. He should be on the alert to cover the
third base when the catcher throws to it; to back up the second when
receiving a ball from the fielders, and also to take balls on the bound
when missed by the third baseman or pitcher.
4. First Base.
This player should be a splendid catch, and able to hold swiftly sent
balls, as he will be obliged to take them from the pitcher and short
stop, more frequently than any of the other basemen. He should play a
little below his base, and inside the line of the foul ball post in
order to secure balls which would otherwise pass him. As soon as the
ball is struck he should return to his base and with one foot upon it
stand ready to receive the ball from whatever player may have fielded
it.
This is the only base where a player can be put out without being
touched by the ball, (excepting balls caught on the fly, or those that
are fouled) as it is only necessary that the baseman with ball in hand
touch the base before the striker reaches it. He should instantly
deliver the ball to the pitcher or to any base where it may be
necessary.
5. Second Base.
Many ball players consider this position to be the most important point
in the whole game, and with good reason. It should never be filled but
by an accurate thrower, a sure catcher and a thorough fielder. As most
of the balls pass to the left of this base it is well to play in that
direction and a little back of it, although when a player reaches the
first base the baseman should instantly return. The second base can
give material aid to the pitcher by backing him up closely, and not
suffering a ball to pass them both if possible to stop it. If he fails
to catch a ball, let him by all means stop it in some way, in order to
put out a player by touching him, then return it to the pitcher.
6. Third Base.
The position of third baseman is quite as important as any of the
others, as in this direction pass the majority of foul balls, which
with dexterity may be taken on the fly. As he has considerable fielding
to perform it is best that he play away from his base, except when a
player runs either to or from it. He should never attempt to hinder
a player from reaching his base, and this advice should be taken and
acted upon by all basemen.
7. Left Field.
Here is a chance for the display of the finest of fielding, as half of
the air balls are sent in this direction. The left fielder is required
to be a swift runner, powerful thrower, and an excellent catcher in
order to acceptably fill this position.
8. Center Field.
This player should be in readiness to back up the second base, and
should never go to long field except when a heavy hitter is at the bat.
He is required to possess nearly the same qualities which distinguish
the left fielder.
9. Right Field.
It is difficult to find a poor place in any of the nine positions in
a well contested game of Base Ball, but if there is one which is at
all inferior to the rest, the right field should be so considered,
simply because balls are sent in this direction but occasionally. Yet
it is important that this field be occupied by one who understands his
business, as the batsman if he sees signs of weakness there, will soon
take advantage of his discovery by batting frequently into that quarter.
The Umpire.
One of the most undesirable positions on a Base Ball field is that of
the umpire. He cannot fail to displease some one by his decisions,
though he govern himself by the strictest rules of the game. Great
firmness here is necessary in supporting a decision, and on any
doubtful point it is better that he adhere to his first impressions
as they are most likely to prove correct. No one should be allowed to
approach, or converse with the umpire during a game. He should close
both eyes and ears to everything outside of the game in progression,
and allow no remarks of whatever nature in reference to his judgment
to influence him in the least. All foul balls should be called in a
loud, clear and distinct tone of voice, and no member of a club should
question any decision, however incorrect it may appear to them, but
cheerfully acquiesce, and if corrections are to be made, there will be
plenty of time at the conclusion of the game. It is unnecessary to add
that the person acting as umpire should possess a thorough knowledge
of the game in all its details. He must keep a strict watch upon both
pitcher and striker, and if necessary call strikes or balls upon them
in accordance with the rules. His position is to the right of and
between the striker and catcher, on a line between the home and third
base.
The Scorer.
The scorer may be regarded as the clerk of the game, and it is his
duty to record the score of each player, and make a full and complete
showing of each man’s standing throughout the game. The same person
should always be appointed scorer in all match games, and he should be
selected as well for his gentlemanly qualities as for his familiarity
with the game.
[Illustration]
Archery.
ARCHERY was formerly one of the chief pastimes of England, and at
different periods in modern days it has been a fashionable amusement;
and in this country it has been practiced in some few localities.
Archery is a healthful and agreeable pastime, and ought to be revived
and in general use all over this country; it is scarcely excelled by
any recreation in which propriety permits young ladies to indulge.
The attitude of an _accomplished_ female archer (for archery is not to
be acquired without much practice) at the moment of bending the bow
is particularly graceful; all the actions and positions tend at once
to produce a proper degree of strength in the limbs and to impart a
general elegance of bearing.
Ladies usually shoot at a distance of about fifty yards. Two targets
are placed opposite each other, and the archers shoot from one to the
other; that is, when all the party have shot at one target, they walk
up to it, gather their arrows, and shoot back to the one they came
from, to which they again return when their arrows are expended; and so
on, shooting from one to the other in rotation. In that way not merely
the arm, but the whole frame, enjoys the benefit of salutary exercise
in the open air, while the mind is interested and the spirits elevated
by the sport.
The attitude in shooting is a matter of much importance; the feet
should be a few inches apart, the neck slightly curved, so as to bring
the head a little downward; the face, but no part of the front of the
body, is to be turned towards the mark. The left arm must be held out
quite straight to the wrist, which should be bent inwards; the bow
is to be held easy in the hand; and the arrow, when drawn, should be
brought, not towards the eye, but the ear. The right hand should begin
to draw the string as the left raises the bow; when the arrow is three
parts drawn, the aim is to be taken. In doing this the head of the
arrow should appear to the right of the mark; the arrow is then drawn
to its head, and immediately loosened.
To draw the arrow from the mark or ground it should be taken by the
hand, as near the head of the arrow as possible, and extracted in the
same direction as it entered. If these instructions be not attended
to, the young archer will break many arrows in drawing them from the
ground, or the mark, when she is so successful as to hit it.
In selecting a bow the chief point to be attended to is the adaptation
of the bow to the strength of the person who is to use it. Bows,
arrows, and accoutrements can easily be obtained in any city. Any boy
can find good material for bows in almost any piece of woods, and
easily make a bow for himself or his lady friends.
Targets are made of wood and generally painted in circles. The central
point is the one to be aimed at by the archers.
The same dresses used at Croquet parties are desirable for Archery, and
add much to the graceful appearance of the Archer.
Let us become skillful Archers and have Archery meetings as of old, and
let ladies and gentlemen, or boys and girls, contend for the prizes.
It is useless here to give an elaborate essay on the history of
Archery; any person sufficiently enthusiastic to desire it, can easily
obtain English books containing detailed directions on Archery, and its
history from ancient to modern times.
[Illustration]
Gardening, Flowers.
WE, as a nation, are not a happy, home-loving people. The “spirit of
unrest” pervades all classes.
This enterprising, uneasy spirit, has been, and is, of benefit to us as
a comparatively new country, in settling and breaking our wild Western
lands.
But the time has come, when it is well to curb that spirit, and
cultivate all quiet, home-loving influences.
Therefore, I beseech you, parents, to begin in earliest infancy, to
cultivate a love of the beautiful in nature, give your little ones
flowers; and as soon as they are able to play in the garden, give them
a little spot of their own to dig in; and when they can understand the
process, give them seeds to plant, and some few flowers to cultivate.
I can tell you of a happy cottage home, where the children, from
earliest infancy, have lived among flowers. Each had their tiny garden,
with spade, hoe, trowel and watering-pot. The father and mother would
also assist with their own hands in training vines, roses and shrubs,
in artistic beauty. The good father never went to his counting-room
without some flowers in his hand, or in the button-hole of his coat,
the valued gift from the tiny garden of one of his darlings. Years
passed and fortune favored them, but they never would exchange their
cottage home, with its vines, trees and shrubs, for all the stately
mansions in the town. And as the daughters married, and the sons left
to seek their fortunes, they would look back with intense longing
to their loved home; and joyous were their meetings around the home
Christmas tree.
On Sundays they always, even in midwinter, ornamented their social
table with flowers, for they are God’s smiles. Therefore, my friends,
I speak from observation, and from seeing the effect of an opposite
course. If you wish to lessen your doctor’s bill, and give the beauty
of robust health and happiness to your children, girls or boys, give
them a garden and let them plant, weed and water it. If your children
bring you even a simple field daisy, express your pleasure to them, and
let them not see you cast it aside.
Teach your boys the use of a pruning-knife, and how to graft; then give
them some trees to experiment upon. You may save them from dissipation,
by giving them a taste for Horticulture. It is a happy, health-giving
employment.
Decorate even your barn with graceful vines. The poorest house can be
made an agreeable place, by transplanting a few of the many simple,
wild vines. It is not natural to love intensely a stiff, ungainly
object.
I have often thought, as I have roamed about the farming districts of
New England, and have seen the many great, stiff, square houses, with
not a graceful tree, or flower to relieve their nakedness, (though now
and then a syringa, or lilac bush, or cinnamon rose, and perhaps a
stately old butternut, may be seen,) the sons and daughters of those
households will surely emigrate. Utility is our hobby. Some farmers
think it waste time to plant a flower, as it yields no fruit.
Remember the old saying, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
You that dwell in a city, strive to have a small spot in the country to
which you may send your children in Summer, to roam at will. I heard a
little child, in urging her mother to go into the country in vain, cry
out, “It is too, _too bad_, mamma, I know God did not make the city for
little children, because he loves us.”
Do not waste your money at fashionable watering-places. Even in early
years, take your children to the woods and let them see nature in its
wild state. There is nothing like a day in the woods for refreshing us
all, in body and mind. The wild music of running brooks is so lulling,
the birds carol their “native wood-notes wild” so sweetly, the strange
blended odor of the damp mould, the leaves, the wild flowers, and the
prospect of the distant meadow, are so delightful; the play of the
sunlight through the dense foliage, and on the sylvan walks, is so
beautiful, and the quiet is so marked, after the hum and roar of a
city, that the mind is tranquilized, and both you and your children
will be nearer to God, and nearer to one another, for every hour so
spent. Our whole country is full of wild beauty. Spend your spare money
in decorating your homes with trees, flowers and shrubs. The influence
upon your children will be far more beneficial.
If your children wish for money to purchase seeds and flowers for their
gardens, if possible, give it cheerfully. It is far better so spent
than in dress and toys. Let them plan their own gardens and experiment
as much as they please. A very pretty fence can be made round such
gardens, by a number of stakes of equal lengths pointed at one end to
drive into the ground, square at the top, and painted green. Then place
them at equal distances around your garden, and bore holes about six or
seven inches apart for the twine, which should be brown linen. Pass the
twine through the holes, in lines all around the garden. Plant vines
which run rapidly, such as Cypress Vine, Madeira Vine, Nasturtium,
Maurandya Barclayanna, Dwarf Convolvulus, Mountain Fringe, &c., &c. By
midsummer your simple fence will be very beautiful.
Having spent many years in cultivating flowers, perhaps a few practical
directions from my own experience may be of service to my readers.
HOW TO PLANT SEEDS.
WE often think because the seed we plant does not germinate that we
have purchased poor seed, when the fault is in the manner of planting.