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Show FRENCH FIGHTERS ARE VERY GAME Tne years ago the Frenchman was still supposed to be physically and morally incapable of learning to "fight like a Christian" (to quote the quaint phrase used by a worthy of tho old prize ring), and when a little later lo boxe began to be cultivated In Paris It was possible for the foreign for-eign critic to contemplate the first products of the new cult with mingled amusement and amazement Yet there was no reason in the nature of things why a race which had always excelled In the art of the sword should not also distinguish Itself In the ring The characteristic qualities of tho successful fencer fine footwork, foot-work, accurate timing, the ability to Judge distance, the harmony of hand and eye and a reserve of nervous energy en-ergy are equally valuable in the modern game of boxing, while the compact physique of the round-headed short-necked French athlete and his unconquerable courage obviously provided him with the capacity of withstanding punishment It was soon evident that the deficiencies de-ficiencies of tho first French boxers wero merely the result of a lack of scientific training As to thoir possession pos-session of the physical and moral stamina (there is really no such thing as merely physical courage) known as "bottom spirit" to the old-fashioned old-fashioned pugilists there was - no doubt whatever They could enduro an intolerable deal of pounding. As a rule, it required a knockout to extinguish ex-tinguish the smile which they wore on entering the ring. |