e known
to Bernard Hallam and Ella.

The course was the straight mile, and there is no better galloping
ground. Southerly Buster cantered down with Bradley in the saddle; the
Baron's jockey fancied his mount, he had ridden him in several gallops.
Tommy Colley was, as usual, on Alan's horse. It seemed an equal match
both as regards the riders and horses. Naturally there was prejudice
in favor of The Duke, odds of five to four being laid on him, then six
to four was freely laid.

"Going to beat you, Ben," said Tommy at the post.

"You may, but you'll not find it easy; mine's a real good horse," was
the reply.

They sprang off together, at top speed in a few strides, and it was
evident the mile would be covered in fast time. Southerly Buster was a
clinker over the distance, holding the Australian record for a mile, a
generous horse, always willing to do his best. The Duke had a temper,
but Colley knew his peculiarities and humored him. The horse had a bad
habit; getting off well, he generally slackened speed after going a
couple of furlongs. He did so on this occasion and Southerly Buster
gained a length or more, much to the consternation of backers of Alan's
horse. At the end of four furlongs the Australian had increased his
lead and still The Duke held back. Colley was anxious. The Duke had a
tremendous turn of speed, but nearly three lengths was a lot to make up
in half a mile.

The black, orange hoops and cap were conspicuous; Bernard Hallam
fancied they would be as successful here as in Australia.

Jack Wrench had a habit of giving a long and prolonged whoop when he
felt sure of a horse's victory. He proclaimed his confidence in
Southerly Buster in a manner causing people near to laugh heartily.
Hallam heard the well-known cry and it increased his hopes of winning.

Alan was disappointed so far at The Duke's form. He knew Colley was
not quite as good as Bradley in a match, although his judgment was
excellent, hardly ever at fault.

They were two furlongs from the winning-post and Tommy wondered when
The Duke would put on full pressure; it was high time if he were to
win. He dare not hit him, not at present; a few strides from the post
it was generally effective because The Duke had no time to think things
over and sulk. Just as Colley was beginning to despair and becoming
desperate he felt The Duke bound under him, and in a few seconds the
whole aspect of the race changed. So sudden was the mo