THE LONGEST BREAK ON RECORD.

Poverty Bay Herald, Volume VII, Issue 1182, 26 November 1880, Page 2

THE LONGEST BREAK ON RECORD.

Mitchell, the "new man," haseclipsed all previous performances on the English billiard table. At a late match he^ gave a well-known amateur and supporter 1,500 start in a match of 2,000 up in Bond-street, Brington, before, a fair sprinkling of spectators, the table having been specially .erected for Mitchell's practice by Messrs Tliursfcoii of Catherine-street. Mr. R. Topping, his opponent, began w,ith an attempt at a cannon, but failed, Mitchell following with a break of 50, and subsequently 108 composed of 36 spot hazards. By. this time Mr. Topping had strung together 10, and at his subsequent stroke, Mitchell holed the red and went for his favourite position behind" ,the spot. Amidst breathless excitement he continued to hold the cue until he had pocketed the red ball 612 times, the break which left him within two of home, realising 1,839, the largest ; number ever made in England. Reaching 1,000 Mitchell felt a little nervous, and dwelt for quite a minute, until the burst of cheering with which lie was hailed had passed. But he aftei wards darted the red home time after time like lightning, and often had no occasion to leave his ball, the strong back twist keeping him in position eight or nine shots consecutively. Three or four times he got too near the cushion, bu^ went round the table arid obtained his again with marvellous, precision. The game occupied 1 h 35min. Mr. Topping only handled his cue three tinies, and fbuud out , by experience that .he., must .find, another "chopping block," as j is rather a herd nail.