SAM DARLING'S 

 REMINISCEiNCES 



PART I 

 CHAPTER I 



EARLY DAYS 



Many times have I been asked to write my remini- 

 scences, but have been reluctant to do so, par- 

 ticularly as I have not kept a diary or notes of any 

 description. When I was on the eve of my retire- 

 ment I was again approached, and after considera- 

 tion I decided to place my record of a busy racing 

 career before the public. Although the first 

 person may appear too often, I must humbly ask 

 my reader's indulgence, and to be kindly let off 

 with a caution. 



I was born on March 11, 1852, at Bourton Hill, 

 Moreton-in-the-Marsh. I was one of six in family, 

 and the favourite of my grandfather and grand- 

 mother, who was a Bethel, the same family as 

 Lord Westbury. My grandfather owned, trained, 

 and rode the famous grey horse Isaac, but sold him 

 1 



