To the Editor.
Permit me to point out that Mr. Hamilton Pritchard's reply, which you print as a footnote to my letter in your last issue, does not answer my question, which was whether the width of the standard (corner) pocket is or is not 3½in. at the fall of the slate. I submit that it is.
The width of the jaw which (as Mr. Hamilton Pritchard says) is 3 3/8 in., is not the chief factor, except perhaps for fast hazards into an open pocket. For general billiards the width at the centre of the curve, where the ball commences to fall into the pocket (i.e., the fall of the slate) is more important. Let that width be 3 7/16 in. and the pocket is very difficult; cut back the slate so that the width is 3 9/16in. and it is comparatively easy.
It will be found that the standard tables used for important professional matches in London vary quite as much as this, and the subject therefore should be of interest to my fellow amateurs, for there is a general idea that the pockets of all tables passed as standard are identical.
As a matter of fact, a comparison of the breaks made by the leading professionals is of little value unless they are made on the same table.
Muswell Hill, A. LONG BROWN.
Sept. 23, 1911.