Post Boy vs. John Bascombe 169 



The fact that there was very little betting before or 

 during the race showed that conservative minds consid- 

 ered the horses about evenly matched, an opinion sub- 

 sequently confirmed. The track was not in the best 

 condition and a strong wind blew from the northeast, so 

 the best time was not anticipated. 



Post Boy's popularity at the North, and the sudden 

 leap into fame by the hitherto unknown John Bascombe, 

 drew to the Union Course the largest crowd that had 

 assembled there since the Eclipse-Henry race. 



Bascombe was a light chestnut, with one forefoot and 

 one hind foot white. As a whole, his form indicated 

 speed, but neither great endurance nor ability to carry 

 weight. So said some critics. Others thought his make- 

 up indicated speed, endurance and strength. The accu- 

 racy of these widely divergent opinions was soon to be 

 tested. 



When the Southern champion, after an unprecedented 

 journey, was stripped for action, his high spirits, perfect 

 condition and game appearance won for his trainer the 

 most lavish praise. Col. Johnson's favorite jockey, 

 Willis, who had ridden Argyle at Augusta, mounted 

 Bascombe. Gilbert W. Patrick, who later rode Boston 

 successfully for three years, and who, still later, rode 

 Lexington when he made a new 4-mile record at New 

 Orleans, mounted Post Boy. 



Post Boy had the pole. Bascombe took the outer edge 

 of the track to make a straight run for the lead. At the 

 first tap of the drum they got away, making play from 

 the start. Willis collared Post Boy, was soon a length in 

 front, and as they entered the back stretch Bascombe took 

 the track and was never headed. As they swung round 

 the turn Post Boy let out a link and the pace improved, 

 though Bascombe still led his saddle girth. As they 



