-^ Modern Ascot 



the turf on Ascot Common is linked with all that is 

 famous in the annals of horse-racing. Two centuries ago 

 did horses test their powers here, and in the pale moon- 

 light one recalls the famous contests for the Cup that have 

 taken place, when Zinganee raced like the wind, winning 

 by a length ; when Touchstone forged his way to the 

 front, and won in a canter ; when the Emperor proudly 

 passed the post a victor for two years in succession ; when 

 West Australian bore down on his opponents, and won by 

 a short head ; when Isinglass met with other champions, 

 and fought a battle fit for the gods. What mighty heroes 

 have galloped over this very ground — Eclipse, Touchstone, 

 Emperor, The Hero, Flying Dutchman, West Australian, 

 Isonomy, St. Simon, Ormonde, Persimmon ! What con- 

 courses of men and women — the world's greatest and 

 noblest — have met here ! what fortunes have been lost 

 and won ! 



