Exeter Flying Post, Cann accepts 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. Mr. James Polkinghorn, Sir,—Not having had an opportunity of meeting my friends until this afternoon, I have been prevented from returning an answer to your letter earlier than the present. 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, for which sum I shall hold myself in readiness to wrestle with you on the terms annexed, to meet at such place as shall be hereafter agreed upon. I would beg at the same time to suggest, that as Plymouth, Devonport, or Torpoint, are nearly equi-distant between us, and also on the borders of our respective Counties, one of these places would, in my opinion, be the most eligible to be selected for the contest. The money on my side having been deposited, I hope and trust not the least feeling of personal animosity will subsist between us, as on my part I can assure you, 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.”