Royal Ascot ^ 



had almost cheered itself hoarse, a universal call from the 

 multitude was given for " Bliicher ! Bliicher ! — Platoff! 

 Platoff ! " All thought of racing was banished, and the 

 crowd was determined to give the heroes of the hour a 

 genuine ovation. When the Prince Regent, therefore, 

 stepped forward and informed them that neither of the 

 famous generals had yet arrived, calls were given for 

 Alexander, and the Pacificator of Europe came forward 

 and bowed his thanks to the shouts of applause which 

 greeted him. Ere this was over, an attempt was made to 

 start the first race, but it was found impossible to clear 

 the course. Then a carriage edged its way through the 

 crowd, and the gallant Bliicher came in for his share of 

 congratulation. Cheer after cheer greeted the grand old 

 veteran as he made his way to the Royal Box, and he 

 who was so cool amidst the cannons' roar was fairly over- 

 whelmed with the intensity of British cheers. vSo eager 

 were the people to do honour to their Prince and to his 

 guests that all eyes were riveted on the occupants of the 

 Royal Stand, and the crowd fairly turned their backs on 

 the horses as they passed. Anon the Prince Regent 

 informed the onlookers that General Platoff was approach- 

 ing on horseback, and asking that way might be made for 

 him. This was like a match to a powder magazine ; there 

 was a movement throuQ-hout the crowd, and as the brave 

 Platoff made his way with difficulty towards his august 

 host, the people thronged round him, shouting compli- 

 ments and cheering, ladies and gentlemen seizing him by 

 the hands in their eagerness. After the Prince had placed 

 the two generals in front of the box, and three lusty 

 cheers had been given, racing conimenced. The first race 



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