“I suppose you will put me off if I don’t,” he sneered. “Oh, well, I am going, so don’t worry.”
He turned on his heel and stalked away.
And at that moment Shirley flashed by on Gabriel. Down the track she had seen Jimmy in conversation with a stranger, and as she whirled by she caught sight of Jones’ face, and recognized him.
“Strange,” she muttered. “What can he be talking to Jimmy about?”
And as she continued around the course Gabriel’s actions steadily became more peculiar. Twice Shirley urged him to renewed efforts, but after a short spurt he slowed down quickly. And as he ran he shook his head violently from side to side and champed more fiercely at his bit.
“Something wrong,” thought Shirley. “One more round and then back to the stable.”
On this last round Gabriel slowed down considerably and in spite of all Shirley’s urging he refused to increase his pace. At the gate this time Shirley turned out, and made for the stable.
Jimmy had preceded her there, and was waiting as she rode up. Mr. Willing, Leonard, Mr. Ashton and Mabel also stood near.
“Well, how does he go, daughter?” demanded Mr. Willing, as Shirley flung herself to the ground.
“There is something the matter with him,” said Shirley.