ground with the heel of the shoe. This is seldom allowed; "Fen
buryings" being the accepted law of experts. _Laying_ means placing
the marbles in the ring.

_Clearances_ means the removal of all obstructions between the players
and the ducks.

_Sneaking_ means shooting for a position.

_Babying_ is shooting so as not to send the taw too far. Good players
often do this so as to secure a position from which they can "skin the
ring."

_Dabsters_ are little squares of cloth or skin laid under the knuckles
when playing to keep them from being cut by constant contact with the
hard ground.

_Marble Bag_ saves pockets and explains itself.

According to quality, marbles are known as "agates," "crystals,"
"chinas," "alleys," "potteries," and "commies," or the cheapest and
least prized.

The three great essentials of the game are the boys, the marbles, and
suitable ground.

The marble is shot from the hollow of the crooked index finger, and
projected by the thumb. Good shooting is often done in this way, but
the most expert shots place the marble on the point of the index
finger, and project it with a firmer grip of the thumb. This method