the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the gardens, he gave an annual silver cup and cover to be sailed for by the Cumberland Fleet; also a wherry to be rowed for by the Thames watermen. The first Vauxhall Cup was won by the Prince of Wales.
Because of some mistake made in carrying out the sailing directions, the match of July 19, 1787, was ordered to be re-sailed on August 3d; it was won by the Nancy, Captain Dore, the Blue Dragon being disqualified for booming out her jib.
At this time it was the custom for gentlemen owning yachts, which they intended to race, to meet at the Crown and Anchor Tavern in the Strand, and draw lots for position on the line at starting. No doubt these meetings were made the occasions of friendly and pleasant intercourse among yachtsmen and their friends, much to the satisfaction and profit of the landlord.
July 14, 1789, the Vauxhall Cup was sailed for by the following yachts: Mercury, Captain Astley, 8 tons; Adventure, Captain Walmsley, 10 tons; Phœnix, Captain Parkins, 12 tons; Duke of Cumberland, Captain Loveday, 11 tons; Eolus, Captain Windle, 5 tons; Venus, Captain Grayfort, 4 tons; Eagle, Captain Grubb, 8 tons; Nancy, Captain Luson, 12 tons; Griffin, Lord Paget, 4 tons; (Cumberland, Commodore Taylor, 13 tons: entered but not intended to sail). This match was won by the Phœnix, Captain Parkins. This record is taken from Commodore Taylor's writing, and it is interesting to note that Lord Paget,—afterward Earl of
