From early in the morning until after the races started, crowds continued to pour into the grandstand and overflow into the paddock. Thousands of women, in brilliant costumes, gave a picturesque touch to the scene. It was indeed a gala day.
Gaily decked in bright colors, the grandstand presented an attractive appearance. Everywhere happiness and light-heartedness prevailed. It was the day of the year when Louisville gave itself over to frolic.
The races were scheduled to start at 2 o’clock, and as the winner of the first event flashed under the wire the crowd cheered. But in spite of these first events—good races though they were—the crowd waited impatiently for the superb horses that were to fight for the Derby.
It was a few minutes after 1 o’clock when Shirley, Mabel and Dick reached the track, and hurried to the Willing quarters. Mr. Willing was pacing up and down anxiously when they appeared, and Mr. Ashton and Leonard were beside him.
Gabriel, all ready for the race, stood quietly nearby.
“Well, here you are at last,” said Mr. Willing as the three approached them. “Where is Shirley?”
“Oh, she will be here soon,” said Mabel. “Don’t worry about her. Let me introduce Dick Stanley, Mr. Willing, the boy who came so nobly to our aid.”
Mr. Willing extended his hand and the lad grasped it.
“I am glad to know you,” said the former. “Allow me to thank you for the service you rendered me.”
“It was nothing,” said Dick and stepped back.