THE HUMOURS OF THE RACECOURSE 85 



look at that chestnut colt — white jacket and black 

 cap — with thousands depending on him ! He is 

 three parts of the way to Tattenham Corner before 

 his rider can restrain him. Talk of agonising mo- 

 ments — the pangs of death ! What can at all equal 

 these ? But there are no winnings without losings ; 

 and it is nuts to those who have backed him out. 

 Who can say, indeed, but that, his temper being 

 known, the false start may have been contrived to 

 accommodate him ? However, they are all back 

 again at the post, and each rider endeavouring once 

 more to be well placed. Observe the cautious John 

 Day, how quietly he manoeuvres to obtain an inside 

 location for his worthy master, his Grace of Grafton. 

 Look at neat little Arthur Pavis, patting his horse 

 on the neck and sides, and admiring himself at the 

 same time ; but his breeches and boots are really 

 good. Watch Sam Chifney minutely ; but, first 

 and foremost, his seat in the saddle, 



" Incorpsed and demi-natured 

 With the brave beast ; " 



and his countenance — 'tis calm, but thoughtful. 

 But he has much to think of ; he and his confede- 

 rates have thousands on the race. Harry Eobinson 

 and Edwards are side by side, each heavily backed 

 to win. How they are formed to ride ! Surely 

 Nature must mould a jockey for the purpose of dis- 

 playing her jewel the horse. And that elegant 



