THE RETURN MATCH. 8j 



keeper. The visitors at the Hurst at race-times were early 

 risers to a man ; but on this occasion one of them did not 

 emerge from his bath into the pure air which came fresh from 

 the moors a moment too early for Trenholm. That one was 

 Mr. Freeman. The bemused butler had resolved, after much 

 mental travail, to confide in his master's old friend. For various 

 conclusive reasons it appeared to him that recourse to Mr. Win- 

 penny would be attended with risk. Trenholm's early diligence 

 was speedily rewarded by the appearance of Mr. Freeman, mak- 

 ing his way towards the stables. 



' Good-morning, sir ; can I have a word with you in private ?' 

 asked the butler beseechingly, and almost out of breath. Late 

 hours and lack of sleep had affected him. 



' Good-morning, Trenholm. Certainl}'. What is it ? Got a 

 moral for the two-year-old race ? Come in here.' He led the 

 way into the library. 



The expression of gentle pity which was apparent in the old 

 gentleman's face gradually gave way to one of severe gravity as 

 Trenholm poured forth an agitated account of last night's dis- 

 covery. Except to interpose three or four pertinent questions, 

 he spoke not until the surprising story was at an end, and then 

 he rose and said : 



' I think you have been prudent in keeping this matter from 

 Mr. Winpenny. Dismiss your fears. I may find it necessary to 

 take Sir Thomas Acklam into my confidence ; but in any case 

 rest assured that I am operating. If you are backing Crowfoot, 

 and I know you are fond of an occasional investment, be careful 

 whom you bet with. If it be with any of the Slider party, make 

 them post the money. I will take care that Mr. Winpenny and 

 his friends are warned. We must not linger too long over the 

 breakfast, so see there is no delay on your part. Now make 

 your mind easy. Those scoundrels shall remember the last 

 meeting at Brackenlea as long as they live.' 



Mr. Freeman succeeded in getting the morning visit to the 

 stable postponed until after breakfast ; and, excusing himself 

 from waiting for the coach which was to convey the party to the 

 course, said they might pick him up in the town, as he had 

 something to see to there which would not wait, and proceeded 

 thither at the rate of six miles an hour. 



' Trenholm !' 



'Yes, Miss Blanche.' 



The only daughter of Hugh Winpenny, Esq., a lovely girl of 



