r way to
say that you are sorry when these misfortunes happen. Such expressions
imply a kind of patronage for which your opponent will not thank you,
and he knows all the time that you do not really mean it, and therefore
infers that you are a hypocrite. The best golf is that which is played
in comparative silence.

* * * * *

At the beginning of a match do not worry yourself with the idea that the
result is likely to be against you. By reflecting thus upon the
possibilities of defeat one often becomes too anxious and loses one's
freedom of style.

* * * * *

Take more risks when you are down to your opponent than when you are up
on him. If you play a difficult shot successfully, the circumstance will
probably have some effect upon the other man.

* * * * *

It is a mistake continually to exercise extreme caution. One's play is
severely cramped by an excess of care.

* * * * *

Try, whenever possible, to make matches with opponents who are at least
as good, if not better than yourself. This will do your game more good
than playing with an inferior player against whom you will always be
liable to play in a careless manner.

* * * * *

Always make an effort to improve your game, and do not content yourself
with the idea that you go out on the links for the exercise only. It is
no more difficult or less pleasant trying to play better than it is to
go on continually in the same old way.

* * * * *

When making a match, do not try to get a greater allowance of strokes
than that to which you are entitled on your handicap, alleging to your
opponent that the said handicap is an unfair one. Your opponent may
think you are a little too "keen"; and if he grants your improper
request, and you should then win the match, he may think some other
things besides.

* * * * *

Remember that more matches are lost through carelessness at the
beginning than through any other cause. Always make a point of trying to
play the first hole as well as you have ever played a hole in your life.
The favourite saying of some players, "I never try to win the first
hole," is the most foolish thing ever said in connection with the game
of golf. Win as many holes as you can in the early part of the game.
They may be useful for you to fall back upon later on.