CHAPTER XIII 



AD now I come to my final ride on dear old 

 Weasel, an equine friend whom I had 

 grown to love. A perfect understanding 

 existed between us from the very first ; and 

 even after the lapse of so many years, I memorize the 

 choking sensation in my throat which obsessed me 

 when I saw him being led round the sale ring, and yet 

 remained dumb to Mr. Steven's (the auctioneer's) 

 stirring and persuasive appeals. 



It was in the early days of Hurst Park that I had 

 entered my old pal in the usual over-night selling 

 event, and had instructed James Prince accordingly. 

 When my excellent trainer met me before racing, he 

 seemed rather perturbed. 



" Mr. Johnson has entered Hugger Mugger and 

 is bent on running. All conditions being equal it is 

 as close as no matter between him and Weasel. What 

 about it, sir ? " 



" Well, they can back the two coupled." 



" Then they will have to lay long odds. The 

 public won't have anything else, that's sure." 



" Who rides Hugger Mugger ? " 



156 



