Pedestrianism; or, An Account of the Performances of Celebrated Pedestrians During the Last and Present Century. With a full narrative of Captain Barclay's public and private matches; and an essay on training.

** "Pedestrianism; or, An Account of the Performances of Celebrated Pedestrians…" by Walter Thom is a deep historical exploration into the world of competitive walking and running. It showcases the extraordinary achievements of pedestrians, most notably Captain Barclay, highlighting his famous matches and the rigorous training required to conquer them. The narrative begins by examining the historical importance of physical exercises in ancient Greece. The author emphasizes their crucial role in building strength and agility for both athletic competitions and military preparedness. Thom analyzes the present British approach to military preparation, judging it lacks adequate training and exercise, and suggests embracing elements from ancient Greek regimens to enhance the physical fitness of soldiers. As the story proceeds, it sets the stage for detailed recreations of pedestrian contests. It promises a tour of the prowess and victories of celebrated athletes, beginning with the iconic Captain Barclay and the retelling of his legendary feats. **