Sporting Life Magazine – 6th January 1888
10. What does this document reveal about Hezekiah Moscow and Ching Hook?
11. What can you learn about Sam Baxter?
12. What else is going on except the boxing match?
13. What evidence is there that Ching Hook is a successful boxer?
Transcript
Sam Baxter and Ching Ghook at the Sebright Music Hall
Ever on the alert to secure a full share of patronage at this cosy, comfortable establishment, situate in Gloucester-street, Hackney road. The courteous caterer, Mr George E Belmont, has secured the services of Sam Baxter, the 9st 4lb boxing champion of the world, and Hezekiah Moscow, better known as Ching Ghook, the coloured champion, who commenced a six nights’ engagement on Monday evening, and appear at this hall to two “houses” each evening – viz., at eight and ten o’clock respectively. Our readers are well aware that some of the best talent have exhibited their ability on this stage, but none have proved more attractive than these boxers. Last evening (Thursday) every part of the house was well-filled. At the first “house,” after the band, under Mr. Fred. Bullen, had played an overture, the following programme was carried out to the letter: – Tom Gannon, topical vocalist: sisters Briggs, charming duettists; Charles Raymond, the one-legged phenomenon: Smythe Cronin, comic and descriptive vocalist; Charles Diamond, harpist and dancer; Harry Lynn and his clever daughters in the well written sketch “Defeated.” Punctually to time, Sam Baxter and Ching Ghook were introduced by the stage manager, Dave Gorman, and as they advanced to the footlights were most enthusiastically received. Both were faultlessly attired, and their sleeveless jerseys showed their biceps and triceps to perfection. Round 1. – Baxter led, but was cleverly countered, and he then parried with his right, and landed on the mark with his left. Some rapid exchanges brought on a smart rally, which terminated the round. Round 2. – Some very pretty feinting took place, which caused much amusement, especially amongst the fair sex, and led to Baxter landing on the face. Ching ducked out of danger several times very cleverly, but Sam would not be denied and got home on the jaw. Round 3. – Having the advantage in height and length of reach, Baxter again cut out the work, and decidedly used both weapons best. Ching, however, made a grand defence, and at its conclusion both were vociferously recalled, and bowed their acknowledgements. Tom Murray, the Whistling Wonder, and Professor Baker’s “Theatre of Arts” concluded the programme, which was repeated at the second display with similar results. For next week Mr. Belmont has engaged two couples of boxers viz,:- Jack Clark v. Punch Dowsett, and Fred Johnson v. Tommy Euston, all of whom will appear each night.