In the first match, Odd Classes _v._ Even, the Odds won by 2 goals and 1 "corner"; but the Evens turned the tables at the return match, winning by 11 goals 2 "corners" to 2 goals. (It is said that a cadet made some wretched jokes on this occasion; remarking that though the odds were against the Evens, they played even better than the Odds; that it was odd that they had not got even with them before, and so on. There is no saying what intricacies he might not have got entangled in, had not some of his comrades mercifully rolled him down a steep slope and sat on him; while a lieutenant who was told of it spoke darkly of "three days two" if he didn't drop it. Sensitive minds cannot stand much of this sort of thing!) In 1884 the cricketing prospects were decidedly improved by the appointment of Mr. E. M. Tims, naval instructor, who has been there ever since, and is now chief. For many years he was a tower of strength to the eleven; but has now relinquished cricket, and is resting on his laurels, and urging on his juniors to further victories. [Illustration: THE CRICKET PAVILION. _Photo: W. M. Crockett, Plymouth._] The cricket season of 1885 opened well, _Britannia_ again beating Plymouth Garrison on May 6th; while a week later they scored a tremendous victory over Plymouth Cricket Club. _Britannia_, 299; Underwood "came off" to admiration, scoring 156; he and Lieut. Thomas contributed 206 between them; moreover, there was quite a record in extras--no less than 31. Plymouth went in against this formidable total, and only succeeded in obtaining 87. May 16th, _Britannia_ _v._ Torquay: _Britannia_, 153 (Mr. Tims 40, Lieut. Thomas 32); Torquay, 54; a very solid victory. But nemesis ensued, for on June 14th Torquay made 167 against _Britannia's_ 37; they brought on a deadly fast bowler, who wrought havoc in the "timber yard," and established a funk, taking six wickets for 12 runs. June 17th. _Britannia_ played the Royal Marines, who can usually get a good team together; however, _Britannia's_ star was again in the ascendant, their side scoring 184 (Underwood 55, Lieut. Thomas 32), against the Royal Marines' 117. Lieut. Thomas got out in rather a curious fashion: he had a man to run for him, and, being non-striker, was out "in the country" near the umpire. The striker drove a ball back hard along the ground; it was diverted by a fieldsman (who made a grab at it) and hit the opposite wicket; the "runner" was out of his ground, of course. It is an extraordinary thing that if you have a man to run for you, you are almost certain to be run out. He may have the very best intentions, and be a perfect sprinter between the wickets; no matter, he is sure to be out of his ground when the wicket goes down.