advance, but usually the striker, after making a hit, runs and touches
the pitcher's base. If he gets back without being it, or stung by the
thrown ball, he can keep on, each run counting one. If the ball is
struck at and caught, the striker is out, and the catcher goes to the
bat. This is one old cat. With two strikers, there are sides and it is
called two old cat.

HAND BALL

is another game that has grown into popularity in the United States.
It is said to have originated in Ireland, where regular courts are
built for it, but it can be played in any place where there is a high
brick wall with a smooth open space in front.

This game can be played by two, or sides may be chosen with any number
of players on each.

A medium ball, with good bounding qualities is the best for this game.
The player throws the ball on the ground and in the bound he strikes
it with the palm of his hand, sending it against the wall, above the
three foot line. The force must be enough to cause the ball to drop
outside the taw line. The next player uses his hand as a bat, and
sends the ball back against the wall in the same manner. He must hit
the ball on the first bound or before it has touched the earth. The
next player is ready to take his turn and strikes the ball on the
rebound, and so the game proceeds, until some one misses, or sends the
ball below the three foot mark or outside the boundaries.

If it is the first striker who misses or sends the ball out of the
boundaries on the ground or side of the wall, then he loses his