64 REMINISCENCES OF SONEPORE. 



stable, marched into Sonepore, followed by Vanderdecken, 

 Prince Alfred, Eruption, and a C.-B. maiden named Ninetta (by 

 Crassus out of Nina by Cotherstone), all in blooming condition, 

 and yet showing that they had done plenty of work ; and all 

 agreed that the " great horse " had never looked better. 

 This made five strong stables to contend for the pride of 

 place ; but yet a sixth has to be described. 



The Dinapore Stable consisting of the waler mare 

 Orphan, and the two maiden country-breds Zenobia, and 

 Defence the latter an uncommonly fine colt by Selim, out of 

 Fortress all three in good racing condition, having being 

 trained by their owner, Mr. Howard, who evidently under- 

 stood the science. 



With at least forty horses in the field, all prepared to run, and 

 the course in beautiful order, good racing was confidently expect- 

 ed, though it was hardly hoped that any of his opponents would 

 be able to make Vanderdecken " stretch his neck," and expect- 

 ations were realised, for he won the Sonepore, Bettiah and 

 Hutwa Cups, though Nancy, beat him in both the Civilians' 

 and Ticcaree Cups, getting 2ilbs. in the first and a stone 

 concession in the latter race. Joseph won two races with 

 his country-bred Shamrock, Mr. Major scored a win with 

 both Variation and Venture, Jack Becher won the pony 

 race with little Tom Tit. Mr. Blacker's Bloodsucker collared 

 the Derby from a poor field, and Mr. Howard's C.B. Defence 

 appropriated the Durbangah Cup. Jimmy steered Brown 

 Duchess in, winner of the Hajeepore Stakes, the Moorcroft, 

 and Hack Handicaps, also Bonnie Morn for the Galloway 

 Stakes, Gwatkin Williams' Rosebud for the Galloway Handi- 

 cap, and Ned Urquhart's Blue Gown for the Cabuli race. 

 All round the meeting was a success, the prizes were well 

 divided, and all owners went away pleased, particularly old 

 Bricky Collins, who gave a Cup to show his satisfaction. 

 This was Mr. Vincent's last year on the Indian Turf. 



