96 THE RACE OF THE YEAR. 



" They're off ! " at the fall of the flag, with a speed 

 That tries the condition of those in the lead. 

 They're off, in the teeth of the wind and the rain 

 That sweeps over Surrey's historical plain. 

 In passing the furzes it seems to be clear 

 The Deemster is out of the race of the year. 



And after the Corner the shouting is loud 



When Stirling's two grandsons come out of the crowd, 



And Common and Gouverneur stealing away 



Show the Birdcatcher line has a value to-day ; 



But Common comes up as the multitude cheer, 



And adds to his record the race of the year. 



We're proud of the Derby, we're proud of the breed 

 Of horses that go with such wonderful speed ; 

 We're proud of the men who are honest and straight 

 In riding and racing and try to create 

 True sport, in the sense that is highest and dear 

 To England, whose pride is this race of the year. 



