When Doonan described the races he had seen in Melbourne the lad's eyes glistened, and he became quite excited.
'I'd like to ride in a real race,' he said.
'You're just cut out for a jockey,' laughed Doonan.
'Am I? Then I'll be one if dad will let me.'
'Do you hear that, Jim?' said the constable. 'Your boy wants to be a jockey.'
'Does he?' said Jim, as he entered the room. 'That's strange. I was only thinking the other day what a good one he would make.'
'Wait until I am strong and old enough, and I shall ride some winners,' said Willie.
'Hullo, there's the coach coming,' said Jim. 'I forgot it was Ned's day. Ned will be glad of this rain, for he has had a rough time of it lately.'
Ned Glenn pulled up at Wanabeen as usual, and, leaving a couple of passengers to grumble on the top of the coach, came inside for his accustomed chat.
'Mind no one runs away with the mails,' said Doonan, laughing.