172 Making the American Thoroughbred 



busy with him little Gil is a punisher, and he did wonders but 

 the go-along had been taken out of his horse by the artiste on Bas- 

 combe, who now clapped in both gaffs and gave him a push a la 

 Cbijney, that sent the phenomenon from Alabama past the winning 

 post a clear length ahead, midst the waving of hats, and kerchiefs, 

 and enthusiastic cheers that made the welkin ring for miles around." 



The following is the record of the time of each mile, 

 taken from the timer of the race as it was noted at the 

 stand: 



First Heat ist mile 2:2; 2d mile 1:56; $d mile 1:54; 

 4th mile 1:57. Total 7:49. 



Second heat ist mile 2:00; 2d mile 1:56; 3d mile 

 1:56; 4th mile 1:59!. Total 7:51^. 



Amidst the approving shouts of the multitude, Willis, 

 as Bascombe's rider, was formally presented with the 

 trophy offered by Van Ranst. "Let its glorious associa- 

 tions," wrote Editor Porter, "ne'er be sullied by those 

 unworthy of the trust, but endure through all time the 

 memento of never fading victories achieved by the high 

 mettled racer and his honest rider. John Bascombe is 

 worthy of his laurels, his title and descent. The South 

 has beat us fairly and honestly on our own ground. We 

 give them joy of their victory. The trophy now goes 

 from us, but how long shall the South retain it?" 



Both Willis and Hammond received their dues in the 

 way of compliments. "The South may boast of another 

 Bascombe," said Editor Porter, "but we shall look in 

 vain for another trainer like M. L. Hammond, or a 

 second Frank Buckle in the person of Willis. The latter's 

 riding was a theme of general praise; the grace with which 

 he sat his horse, not less than the perfect coolness, judg- 

 ment and skill with which he managed him would have 

 done credit to Sam Chifney or Jem Robinson in their 

 primest days. Well has he won his honors may he 

 wear them long." 



