nsidered it conducive to his happiness that he should
take a wife; he was fond of his freedom, of the bachelor life he was
leading, he did many things that would be impossible if he married.

He had a habit of doing unexpected things, and this was the reason
Vincent Newport said, "Does anybody know what he will do?" in answer to
Harry Morby's question.

Alan Chesney came into the billiard room.

"Did you beat him, Harry?" he asked.

"Just pipped him on the post," was the answer.

"I'm just going to have a look at the horses; will you come?" he said.

"Only too pleased," said Vincent, and Harry acquiesced eagerly.

"Think we'll drive; horses are more enjoyable than motors--that's if
you haven't to go any distance."

A pair of beautiful bays were brought round, the shooting wagon was
spic and span, almost new, the groom smart and dapper, everything in
perfect style.

Alan handled the reins and they drove along the well-kept road in the
direction of Trent Stud.

Their way skirted past "The Forest" and as they passed the gates Evelyn
Berkeley came out in her motor. Alan pulled up, she stopped the car,
and greetings were exchanged.

"We're going to see the horses. Will you come?" asked Alan.

She thanked him, said she had an appointment in Nottingham, and from
there had to go to Newark.

"You'll be in town for the Derby, I suppose?" said Alan.

"Yes. Are you running anything at the meeting?"

"Three or four. Might pick up a race or two."

"You'll not forget to put me on," she said, smiling.

"Oh no, I'll not forget. I'll call and see you and give you all
particulars; shall you have a house full?" said Alan.

"Half a dozen single friends and two married couples; you can stay with
me if you like, it will be quite proper," she said, laughing.

Alan did not give a direct answer; he merely repeated that he would
call.

"By Jove, she is handsome!" said Harry enthusiastically.

"Not a doubt about that," said Alan placidly, as he touched the horses
with the whip and they went along at a fast pace.

CHAPTER II

TRENT PARK

Trent Park was a wonderful place; the house was modern, the new mansion
having been built by William Chesney, but the park was full of ancient
trees and there were some old buildings. A venerable keep, surrounded
by a moat full of water and only reached by a boat, there being no
bridge, was not far from the stud buildings.

It was a picturesque spot and many visitors came