England, 16 cups & championships, 91 1st prizes. U. States 2 " " 14 " France -- " " 1 " Belgium -- " " 1 " Holland 1 " " -- " Canada -- " " 2 " "And everyone thought the Belgian champions were going to sweep the board!" cried Gay. "After all, the foreigner by no means had it all his own way, for of the three champion cups awarded, two were secured by a Kentish man, the third going to America." "It was a good show," said Rensslaer, looking very pleased, as well he might, but, though Gay did not know it, more on her account than his own; it was not to rejoice over his own triumphs, but to share _her_ happiness that he had called thus early. But as she gave no sign, he offered no congratulations, and they chatted about the Show for awhile, agreeing that the keenest competitions, both from the international aspect, and that of individual merit, were undoubtedly the high jump, and the four-in-hands, and he told her that they hoped to persuade the Italians to come over to the next Horse Show, adding that they were the finest riders in the world. Gay nodded. "Captain Bulteel says that never before have so many high-class animals been on show in this or any other country. You must be awfully proud, Mr. Rensslaer. You were certainly one of the most popular of the exhibitors, and your successes were cheered to the echo." "I will venture to offer you the pick of my horses for your wedding present," he said, and Gay coloured brilliantly; how on earth could he know already of her engagement? "I am very glad," he said warmly, and got up and went over to her, kissing her little hand so beautifully that she felt sure he _had_ often done it before. "He is the best fellow in the world," said Rensslaer. "I never saw two people more exactly suited to each other. His giving up what is really a passion with him, is a proof not only of his great love for you, but a moral victory, revealing the real strength of his character." "Oh, he never really cared for it," said Gay in some surprise, "and you see he had to give it up, whether he liked it or not." Rensslaer was silent, a little chilled and disappointed. Surely this was not the Gay that he thought he knew.... "I think you will like the house," he said. "It is very quaint and old--some distance from Elsinore, but within the park--" Gay looked at him, astonished. "Has he spoken to you already about a new country place?" she said. "Carlton has several, you know, but no house in town. "_Carlton?_" "Why, who else are we talking about?" exclaimed Gay in astonishment, but she had gone rather pale. "Of Chris Hannen, of course." "Why of course?" Gay's brows were raised; some of the hot anger that burned in her against Chris overnight, burned still. "Because you love him," said Rensslaer quietly.