WILLIAM DAY'S REMINISCENCES. 



CHAPTER I. 



ME. HENRY PADWICK. 



Wide interest in prominent figures on the turf — Erroneous con- 

 ceptions of Mr. Padwick — His origin — Business as a money- 

 lender — His home and friends — Introduction to racing — Trains 

 at Findon with my father — Purchase of Virago, and her suc- 

 cesses — Disappointed with Yellow Jack and St. Hubert — A 

 successful salesman — Three horses for £22,000 — No judge of 

 racing— Instances — Mistake in parting with Joe Miller — 

 Purchases Alvediston from me ; thought ' too good ' — A story 

 to the point — My purchase of Blue Rod— Flying Duchess — 

 Mr. Greville repudiates a purchase — A gentleman's word, and 

 a lesson learned — Mr. Padwick as a borrower — Sharp practice, 

 and what it might have cost me. 



The world is ever curious to learn all that can be 

 learned of the characteristics of those who have cut 

 a figure in it. In no section of society does this 

 eager thirst for information exist to a greater extent 

 than in that which comprehends the sporting, and 

 especially the racing, element. The sayings and 

 doings of the leading turfites are carefully recorded, 

 to be reproduced at all appropriate seasons ; and often, 



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