CHALLENGE TO BOROTRA

Hawera Star, Volume LIV, 28 June 1935, Page 5

CHALLENGE TO BOROTRA

Unlikely That a Duel Will be Fought SETTLEMENT POSSIBLE (United Press Association —By Electrio Telegraph Copyright). Received 11 a.m. to-day. LONDON, June 27. Harry Hopman informed the “SunHerald” Service that it seems unlikely a duel will be fought between Jean Borotra and. M. Poulain, of the newspaper “l’Auto,” because the Davis Cup committee did not ask Borotra to play in the singles, being anxious to develop young men for the future. Brugnon had been dropped from the doubles for the same reason. “I am of opinion that pressure will be brought after explanations, permitting an amicable settlement,” he said. Two French women rushed up to a member of the Legion of Honour at Wimbledon and implored him to prevent Borotra from risking his life. AVimbledon declines to take the matter seriously and suggests that an assault at arms might provide an interesting interlude on the centre court. Borotra, on the other hand, interviewed by the “News-Ohronicle,” declared it was no joking matter. Ho could not face his fellow countrymen if he refused to accept the challenge. It might be a foolish custom but he must not mn away. Borotra was returning to his hotel from Wimbledon when he received a registered letter from M. Poulain’s seconds, MM. Jean Renaud, a famous fencer, and Jaques Goddet, director of .“l’Auto. ” After telephoning to Paris Borotra stated that in accordance with the French code he had asked his friends, M. Rene Lacoste and General Alvin, grand officer of the Legion of Honour, to second him and communicate with M. Poulain’s friends concerning the weapons, place and time. It was-now a matter for the seconds. Borotra has also written to M. Poulain’s seconds accepting the challenge.