The mirror., 1922-07-27
"REMINISCENCES
Continued from page ~


to be compared with major races such as
those held at indianapolis, Ind; Daytona,
Fla; Elgin, ILL.,; Los Angeles, CAL; Long
Island, N. Y. and other places, but in
thrills, enthusiasm, rivalry and other ele-
ments that make up the successful meet,
the event refer to has its fullest measure
considering the size And wish to state
much difficulty is encountered in making
fast time on dirt tracks unless weather
conditions and other circumstances are
favorable. Also, the reader should know
that prior to the impending race l refer
to, "The Flying Frenchman" had stead
fastly refused to participate in any event,
giving as his reason his permanent retire.
ment from the game. However, his fac
tory people had prevailed on him to enter
this particular year, due to the appear
ance of nationwide hero who was to
handle and drive the car of leading
competitor. Something akin to "Frenchy's"
former ardor for the game made itself
evident and "Frenchy" consented.
After the usual press-agenting, bally-
hooing, and weird publicity stunts, the
public became intensely interested and the
qualifying rounds were about to be made,
followed quickly by the race itself. In
the meantime, many stories and columns
of advertisements appeared in the daily
papers; but the Blade scored the "beat'
of them all for genuine stuff, which was
delivered by the efforts of Mr.. Walsh,
and yours truly, but
By previous arrangement as stated,
was to accompany "Frenchy" on the trial
spin, time him and obtain material for
various stories; for example: "How it
feels to travel SO miles an hour, Incidents
on the Flying Frenchman's' Daring Drive,
as told by Blade Reporter, Exclusive,
Realistic Story of Daredevil Frenchy's
Dangerous Drive, etc, ad lib., ETC."
The morning of the qualifying rounds
was brisk and chilly. "Frenchy" called
for me at s 80 o'clock. Gulping cup of
black coffee at a nearby cafe we repaired
to the fairgrounds. Arriving there we
found Mr.. Walsh, an official timer, and
several curious and early-rising "motor-
bugs" With few hasty instructions
and discussion of the track conditions we
ambled off to make last inspection of the
track. We found it in fair condition,
though little heavy. After returning
for few more words on technical allow
ances, we circled the track several times
at a moderate speed, preparatory to "tak-
ing off," AT pre-arranged signal
"Frenchy" was to step on it, for the fly
ing start. Likewise, at the same signal, the
timer and myself were to set our timing
watches.
To say, dear reader, that I was con-
sumed with nervous apprehension is put
ting it mildly. One outstanding sensation
1 experienced was the odd physical pain
of something crowding my liver" To
this day cannot account for the "phe-
nomena." Sometime it is my intention to
consult psychologist in an effort to have
an analysis and learn the true diagnosis.
Suddenly there came sharp report; the
thing thought was "Frenchy's" crimson
racer became monster alive. 1t seemed
to literally take wings and fly! With
binding roar we headed straight for the
"take-off." Came another sharp report,
and click! my time-piece was set. How
ever had the presence of mind to adjust
the thing 1 do not know. Probably
sub-conscious prompting; because surely l
was dumb with horror and genuine fright;
and the terrible speed of the Creature"
was riding was appalling; and gaining
every moment! AT the first turn we
hugged the rail but swerved dangerously.
Oh! God why did ever consent to this
stupendous folly, l thought. We negotiated