Since I have studied the action of the cushions and taken advantage of cushion cannons, I have improved my game threefold.— W.J.H.
I improved my average considerably after reading some hints by John Roberts, senr., who drew attention, amongst other things, to the folly of leaving a cannon on for an opponent by attempting an uncertain slow cannon off the white.—D. R. S.
One of the best playing hints that I have received was to remember, in playing with side, that the cue line has been shifted and that the aim on the object ball must be proportionately shifted. I can now pot almost, if not quite, as well with side as without it.—R.
Advice that has been useful to myself was that of Arthur Peall to aim with a steady cue; of Joseph Bennett to look at the cue ball when in the act of striking; and Riso Levi's statement that the object ball must be struck, for a pot, at the precise point at which it would be in contact with a ball placed by hand in a straight line on the side away from the pocket.—W.Y.W.
We all remember the humorous remark: "If billiards interferes with your business, give up your business." Here is a serious remark: "If beer interferes with your billiards, give up the beer." I have found that by strict moderation before a game, and a refusal to drink during a game, my standard of play has improved by something like 20 in a 100.— Smethwickian.
I had fallen into the habit of addressing the cue ball at the top instead of where I intended to strike it. A friend pointed out to me that there must be considerable uncertainty as to the cue contact under this method when the actual stroke was delivered, and advised me to address the ball exactly where I intended to strike it, and to take the aim through that point. I have proved it to be extremely good advice.—