At this distance Defiance crept up closer with Target, and Willie kept Grey Bird near them.
As they passed the stand Tatters led, the bright orange jacket showing out distinctly.
The favourite was going well, pulling Ashton out of the saddle.
'Willie's on the rails,' said Mr Dauntsey. 'I hope he will not be shut in next time round.'
'It is good going there,' replied Jim, 'and he'll manage to get through, never fear.'
Dr Tom was excited; he had never stood a chance of handling such a lump sum before. Six hundred pounds! It seemed untold wealth to him.
He fixed his eyes on the grey horse and did not see any of the others.
Round the turn and past the road they swept, the orange jacket still in the lead, but the others were gradually drawing nearer. It was a fine race so far, all the runners being well together.
Willie was anxious for an opening, and it came sooner than he anticipated. As they entered the back stretch, round the bend, Target ran wide and bored Defiance out, and this gave Willie a chance.
With marvellous quickness he shot Grey Bird through the opening and went along at a great rate after Tatters. It was a good bit of horsemanship, and recognised as such on the stands.