Let me explain the definitions of "speed" and "pace." "Speed" is
the actual rate with which a ball travels through the air. "Pace"
is the momentum with which it comes off the ground. Pace is
weight. It is the "sting" the ball carries when it comes off the
ground, giving the inexperienced or unsuspecting player a shock
of force which the stroke in no way showed.

Notable examples of "pace" are such men as W. A. Larned, A. W.
Gore, J. C. Parke, and among the younger players, R. N. Williams,
Major A. R. F. Kingscote, W. M. Johnston, and, on his forehand
stroke, Charles S. Garland.

M. E. M'Loughlin, Willis E. Davis, Harold Throckmorton and
several others are famous "speed" exponents.

A great many players have both "speed" and "pace." Some shots may
carry both.


The order of learning strokes should be:

1. The Drive. Fore- and backhand. This is the foundation of all
tennis, for you cannot build up a net attack unless you have the
ground stroke to open the way. Nor can you meet a net attack
successfully unless you can drive, as that is the only successful
passing shot.

2. The Service.