Page:The Hambledon Men (1907).djvu/257

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'OTHER WORLDLY MATTERS'
193

of this famous bowler could be obtained; and what trade he followed is now unknown.


Richard Francis was a cricketer of much celebrity, both as a batsman and bowler. His bowling was considered a jerk, but was allowed by the Hambledon Club, the then law-givers. He was a Surrey man, but resided some time at Hambledon, and formed one of that famous Eleven; also playing for Kent. He was in stature a closely-made, firm and active little man. As his name is found in the Essex Eleven in 1793, he most probably removed to that county. Indeed, W. Beldham (in 1858), when asked to give some account of him, stated he had played with him there 77 years back.


Andrew Freemantle was younger brother of John Freemantle, whose name will be found in a few of the great contests. He continued to appear in the 'tented field' for about twenty-three seasons, and was also one of the 'cracks' of the Hambledon Club, when in its prime. He was a left-handed batsman, very steady and safe, and likewise a good hitter. He generally stood long-field, where he was very good, 'and he was to be depended on, both at cricket as well as in other worldly matters.' His height was 5ft. 9in. and his weight was list. He was born at Bishop Sutton, near Alresford, in Hampshire; but when about 30 years of age, he removed to Easton, near Winchester, where he kept the Bat and Ball Inn, also following the trade of a carpenter. He died at Easton, January 19th, 1837, aged 68; but no tombstone has been erected to his memory. [In another account his age was given as 69.] In 1858, his son Henry was keeping the same inn at Easton, and his son George (also a cricketer) was living at Winchester.


John Freemantle does not seem to have played long, but was the elder brother to the 'crack', Andrew