The first was a vase in silver, entitled “The Hereford Cup,” of the weight of fifty ounces. The inscription on this local mark of esteem from the inhabitants of his native place sufficiently explains the motive of its donors. Its presentation and inscription will be found at page [23].
In the following year (1824), after his first battle with Langan, some Manchester sporting men, out of respect to his honour, integrity, and noble maintenance of the English championship against all comers, decided upon their testimonial in the form of a silver vase, of elegant proportions and massive weight. This, called “The Manchester Cup,” also decorated Tom’s buffet on public and festive occasions. It was thus inscribed:—
“This Cup was presented to
THOMAS WINTER SPRING
By a Party of his Friends in Manchester,
Not only for the Upright and Manly Conduct uniformly displayed by him in the Prize Ring,
But also as a Man,
And as a Sincere Token of the Esteem
In which they hold his Private Character.
Manchester, 12th of April, 1824.”