In the Off-Season 293 



Next day I got to the tryst punctually, 

 met my eccentric friend, and we walked to- 

 gether into a somewhat ill - kept stable to 

 inspect the horse. Here, he did not show to 

 advantage. 



" Garge ! " roared the old man, " saddle 'un 

 and bring 'un aout." 



When the colt stepped jauntily across the 

 threshold, my liking for him revived ; but if 

 I liked him then, what were my feelings when 

 I got on his back ? He was a perfect mover, 

 and as I took him round the field at the back 

 of the farm, I felt I was on a real good one. 

 I brought him back to where his owner and 

 " Garge " stood, deep in conference. 



" Take and put 'un over they hurdles there." 



We cantered up to a flight of hurdles, and 

 the young 'un popped over them like a spar- 

 row. I could not conceal my delight. He 

 was a performer. 



" How much ? " I said. 



" Now look 'ere, young man," began the 

 farmer, in severe tones, one hand rattling the 

 coppers in his breeches pocket, whilst the 



