The Duke, who was genuinely fond of the little jockey, and full of vulgar curiosity, coming upon him two nights before the race, stopped him.
"I'm sorry to hear you and Mr. Woodburn have parted after all these years, Brand," he said in his gruff way.
"Thank you, your Grace," said the little jockey, pinching his lips.
The Duke waited. Nothing happened, but Monkey poked his chin in the air, and swallowed.
"I thought you were set for life," continued the Duke slowly.
"I thought so, too, your Grace," answered the jockey. "But the human 'eart's a funny affair—very funny, as the sayin' is."
Long ago he had acquired the trick of moralizing from his old master.
"What's the trouble, then?" grunted the Duke.
He was greatly curious and honestly concerned.
"Thought I were sellin' him," muttered Monkey.