But for the close,
oppressive atmosphere of the room where the fight took place, the whole
business would have been interesting. The spectators were well dressed
and well behaved, the boxers were beautiful athletes, and there was
nothing repulsive about the swift exchange of lightning blows until the
baking heat began to tell on the men; then it was disagreeable to see
two gallant fellows panting and labouring for breath. We often hear
that boxing is discredited. Rubbish! Ask Jerry about that, and you will
learn that any company of men who care to subscribe L25 may see a combat
wherein science, courage, and endurance are all displayed lavishly.
Jerry was much interested in dog fighting, which latter pleasing pastime
is enjoyed quite freely in London to an extent that would amaze the
gentlemen who rejoice over the decline of brutality in Britain.
The competitive instinct which once found vent in fighting and conquest
now works on other lines. The Englishman must be engaged in a contest,
or he is unhappy, and, since he cannot now compete sword to sword with
his fellow-creatures, he fights purse to purse instead.
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