Of all modern games, Table Tennis - or Ping-Pong, as it is at present more generally called - holds a unique record as regards the rapidity with which it has passed from the regions of the unknown to its present place as a fashionable pastime. Whilst the game was undoubtedly introduced in a crude form several years ago, it was not played to any extent till July or August of last year, yet by Christmas it had caused a perfect furore, and no upper or middle class social function was considered complete without its Ping-Pong table.

Yet, wonderful though this rapid development is, its cause is not far to seek; the game unquestionably fills a long-felt want which the various indoor pastimes previously introduced had failed to do. Demanding, as it does, quickness of eye and hand; furnishing splendid exercise, keen interest, and real enjoyment; being inexpensive to arrange for - it appeals alike to the middle-aged and the young of both sexes, and is equally popular in the enthusiastic club-room or the more dilettante atmosphere of the drawing-room.

The features of the game that have contributed so materially to its popularity would also seem to furnish a reasonable ground for the belief that, far from being a mere passing craze, table tennis has 'come to stay', and be said to have already taken its place as the indoor branch of lawn tennis.

A word with regard to the actual name of the game. Whilst it has undoubtedly attained its present popularity under the onomatopoeic title of Ping-Pong, its more enthusiastic and serious devotees object to the somewhat frivolous suggestion which this name conveys, preferring to style the game Table Tennis, and there seems little doubt that under this latter title it will live in the long run.