322 WHO IS TO RIDE HIM? 



the ring and the stands that George Bradon was 

 to ride his own horse. The utmost consternation 

 ensued and many tried to hedge off their bets — but 

 little or nothing could be done. 



In the meantime our friend was quietly getting 

 himself ready in the dressing-room. 



The time at last came, the horses were saddled, 

 and cantered. 



" Here comes Guardsman," cried the crowd, as 

 the gallant horse came sweeping up the course in 

 magnificent style, with the gray beside him. 



" By heaven ! " muttered a well-known betting- 

 man, and one of the best judges in Europe, "a truly 

 splendid horse — far better in appearance and style 

 than anything here. Bar accidents, he will win in 

 a canter, and if he does, I'm ruined." 



The betting and other men were positively para- 

 lyzed as Bradon and his horse came sweeping by, 

 and it was allowed on all hands that no such 

 animal as Guardsman had been seen for years. 



" There, my boys," said Lord Plunger, dashing into 

 the ring, " there's a man and horse for you. If he 

 does not do the trick to-day I shall be very much 

 astonished ; and if he does, we shall both land a 

 handsome sum, which you will drop." 



The anxious moment is at last come, the horses 

 are in line — the old stud-groom, Tim Mason, stands 



