'No, you can rest assured of it; but the little chap has had a narrow escape,' said the doctor.
CHAPTER XVI
THE MORNING OF THE RACE
The lad passed a peaceful night, but it was an anxious time for Jim Dennis and Dr Tom when he awoke next morning. They had money at stake, but it counted for little. Willie's health was far more to them than any paltry wagers. They were very much afraid he would not be fit to ride, and they knew how the lad would feel about it, and how jubilant certain people would be over the mishap.
Willie, however, was much better than Dr Tom expected.
The sleeping-draught and the night's rest had pulled him together wonderfully, and, although he staggered and for a few moments seemed dazed when he got out of bed, he soon recovered.
'I shall be all right in an hour or two,' he said. 'My head still swims, but one of Dr Tom's tonics will soon pull me round. I am going to ride Neptune and win on him.'
'Bravo, laddie!' said Dr Tom. 'There's pluck for you, Jim.'
'Have you no idea how this happened?' asked his father.
'No. I did not even feel the blow,' said the lad.