On the reception of a letter from the Etonians (their holydays having commenced) challenging us to row them at Sunbury; we returned an answer to this purpose that we should be very happy to row them any distance within reach of Westminster; but that it would be quite impossible for us to go to the place above mentioned, as time would not allow of it. Upon this, Lord Waterford the stroke of the Eton boat came down to Westminster, and it was settled at last that we should row from Putney Bridge to Hammersmith, and back on the 27th of July. Accordingly at 5 o’clock on that day the Westminster rowers proceeded to Putney in a Barouch and four, when on their arrival they found their boat and steerer ready for them. At ¼ to 7, all prepared to start, they set off, the Westminsters taking the lead; but on arriving off Craven Cottage the Etonians came alongside, and gradually gained on them till they arrived at Hammersmith bridge; when they were about 200 yards ahead, but the Westminsters having just got into proper time, on their return to Putney had gained considerably on the Etonians; the Etonians finally won by about 100 yards. Had the race been continued on to Westminster Bridge, there is no doubt but that the Westminsters would have won. The race being finished the parties dined together at the Star and Garter, Putney. The following were the Rowers
Ley
Preston
Bainbridge
Wrottesley x
Smith x
Mayne x
Hussey x
Croke x
Steerer
Bruwell
Umpire
W. Page (O.W.)
P.P. Williams H.B.