The word seemed electric; every eye was turned towards the quarter where I stood; and as I moved forward towards the table the crowd receded to permit my passage.
'Are you on the part of Mr. O'Grady, sir?' said the little man, with a polite smile.
I bowed an affirmative.
'He does not withdraw his horse, then?' said he.
'No,' said I again.
'But you are aware, sir, that Mr. Burke is going to ride for my friend, Mr. Molloy, here. Are you prepared with another gentleman?'
I nodded shortly.'
'His name, may I ask?' continued he. 'Mr. Hinton.'
By this time Mr. Burke, attracted by the colloquy, had approached the table, and, stooping down, whispered some words in the president's ear.
'You will forgive me, I'm sure,' said the latter, addressing me, 'if I ask, as the name is unknown to me, if this be a gentleman-rider?'