The matches were to take place at Newmarket on the first two days. They had been arranged so that Alan Chesney might be present; leave was granted for five days, and he hurried home from the front. Since the desperate cavalry fighting with the Uhlans he had been promoted to the general staff in a special capacity kept a profound secret to all except those immediately concerned, and had already done excellent service.
He arrived at Trent Park late in the evening, and at once went to The Forest where Eve Berkeley anxiously awaited him. Bernard Hallam and Ella were there but discreetly kept out of the way until they met. Alan was bronzed and looked fit; Eve was proud of him. They had much to talk over, and for an hour were left to themselves. No mention was made of their marriage; it was understood it was to take place as soon as possible.
When Bernard Hallam and Alan were alone the matches between their horses were the subject of conversation.
"You've not seen 'em," said Bernard, alluding to Rainstorm and Southerly Buster. "You'll be a bit surprised. I shall give you a good run; it will probably result in winning one each."
Alan smiled; he had frequently heard from his trainer and was confident of success.
"Skane tells me your horses are better than he expected, but he thinks
I shall win," he said.
"And my man Wrench says I shall," was the reply.
"There's a lot of interest in them, and the wagering will be close," said Alan.
"The odds will probably be on your horses; that's only natural. Would you care to have a wager as well as the stake?"
"I'm agreeable if you wish," said Alan.