lan was already on good terms with his mount.
The first fence was reached, not a formidable obstacle. All the horses
got over but three or four jumped wildly. Bandmaster flew it like a
bird.

There were three spills before the stand was reached. As they swept
past there was much cheering. Bandmaster's rider was singled out for a
tremendous reception as the horse cleared the stiff fence in grand
style.

The rider in khaki looked conspicuous among the bright-colored racing
jackets--hatless, his uniform well worn.

They swung round the bend, then entered some ploughed land which found
out the weak spots. Two fields were crossed and the first water jump
reached. There was a wide ditch in front of the high fence; the water
gleamed in the bright light.

Frosty refused and whipped round, causing three more to swerve out.
True Blue stopped short, then sprang into the water, where he remained,
much to the annoyance of many riders, but they managed to steer clear.
Alan let Bandmaster go. The horse made a grand leap, landing safely.
He was delighted at the performance and his hopes of winning were high.
The pace was strong, testing the power of the horses and already a
dozen were hopelessly out of it.

From the stand there was a good view of the race and when Eve saw
Bandmaster clear the water jump in gallant style she cheered.

"Beautifully done," said the Baron. "Captain Chesney has a real good
horse under him."

He noticed Eve's heightened color and how excited she was. Her eyes
flashed and sparkled; there was more than ordinary interest in them.
He wondered if Captain Chesney were first favorite.

"He is a splendid rider," said Eve.

"None better," said Captain Morby.

"He's handicapped heavily," said Mr. Hallam. "It will be extraordinary
if he can last out such a severe race after all he has gone through."

"Wonderful pluck," said Duncan Fraser. "Always had."

"I want to hear how he arrived in time. It will be interesting. He
must have had a race for it," said Ella.

"And won on the post. I hope he'll win this race," said Duncan.

The horses were almost out of sight as they passed some trees but the
colors could be seen dodging between them. When they were in full view
again Handy Man led, with Milkmaid, Picket, Fright, and Sparrow close
behind. Bandmaster came next, alone, followed by the rest. Seven had
fallen and there was a long tail.

Handy Man was a grand jumper and Dan Rowton a good