CRESCEUS, 2:02 1/4 



of the buffeting- of wind, dashed under the wire a win- 

 ner against time in 2 :02^. It was a glorious moment in 

 the history of the American trotter. It was the most 

 wonderful mile ever trotted by any horse ; and on an 

 Ohio track, an Ohio horse, driven by an Ohio man, 

 had triumphed. 



The pent-up enthusiasm of the audience broke loose 

 as the champion passed under the wire, and a mighty 

 cheer went up in greeting to horse and driver. Hun- 

 dreds of shouting, laughing- men rushed on to the 

 track to greet the champion and a huge wreath of flow- 

 ers was placed around his neck. Ketcham, his face 

 flushed with pleasure, was caught up on the shoulders 

 of a dozen enthusiasts and carried into the judge's 

 stand. 



The crowd cheered for several minutes and clam- 

 ored for a speech. When he was able to make himself 

 heard, he said : "I thank you for all this very great 

 enthusiasm which you are showing over the horse. 

 After all it was to be expected that Cresceus would 

 do well, for he was bred in Ohio, Ohio leads in prize- 

 fighters, presidents and horses. I thank you, most 

 sincerely." As Ketcham left the stand. Starting Judge 

 Merrill, with outstretched hand, checked the wild 

 shouting and proposed three cheers for horse and man. 

 With hearty good-will everybody on the grounds join- 

 ed and made the welkin ring, as Ketcham stood with 

 uncovered head and bowed his thanks. 



Cresceus was not unduly fatigued by his effort, and 



119 



