Exeter Flying Post, Cann’s letter accepting Polkinghorne’s challenge (1825)

WRESTLING.—The Rival Champions.—The Amateurs of this ancient and truly noble sport, may expect soon to have one of the greatest treats ever experienced in this or any other part of England, in a contest between the renowned Devonshire Champion Abraham Cann, y’clept the Nonpareil, and the no less celebrated Polkinghorn, of Cornwall.

St. Thomas, near Exeter, 23 Dec. 1825. I now beg to inform you, that I have this day placed in the hands of Mess. Sanders and Co. (Exeter Bank) the sum of one hundred sovereigns…the only motive I have in accepting your challenge, is to try the Championship of our respective Counties. I am, very respectfully, Sir, Your most obedient Servant, ABRAHAM CANN.