Defiance, despite his big weight, held his own, and as the turn into the straight was reached Ashton sent him along at top speed, and drew alongside Grey Bird as they rounded the bend.
Willie saw the white jacket, and recollected what Hurley, the rider of Target, had said to him.
Jack Ashton closed in upon him until Defiance seemed to bore Grey Bird right on to the rails.
The riders' legs actually touched, but Willie kept his head and sang out,—
'Ride fair. Give me room!'
Jack Ashton made no reply, but tried his best to head Grey Bird.
This was more than he could accomplish, and he set his teeth and vowed vengeance on Willie Dennis.
Neck and neck they raced together, with Tatters a couple of lengths ahead, and Target, Warfare and Walwa close behind, Bung Bung coming fast on the outside.
The crowd on the stand and the lawn was seething with excitement.
The favourite was drawing ahead, the white jacket looked dangerous, and visions of spoiling the bookmakers arose in the minds of his backers.