Boxiana (1821) [ Practices ]
… PALEY, yet prize-fighting practically teaches men to admire true courage; to applaud generosity; to acquire notions of honour, nobleness of disposition, and greatness of mind. To bear hardships without murmers; fortitude in reverse of … by the mass of the people: and the name of a BRITON makes a man feel proud that he belongs to such a nation. It is the HONOUR, as well as the reward, in obtaining the PRIZE PURSE, which sets the boxer above his fellows; and it is this … of the pugilist is again witnessed bursting forth in a flame, animating all around him; he courts danger, and then the honour of victory only presents itself before his eyes. He becomes a hero, a host within himself, and his companions in …
Sports
Anthology