Skane was saddling the horse. Mark Colley, Tommy Colley's youngest brother, stood close by. He was to ride, and had already donned the brown and blue-sleeved jacket. Mark was a clever lightweight, and had been well coached by his brother and Fred Skane, whose apprentice he was, but he had already forfeited the five pound allowance, having ridden the requisite number of winners. He was a merry little fellow, and still retained his boyish ways, although Skane said he had the wisdom of a man in his head. His brother, Tommy, was riding Manifest, and Ben Bradley had the mount on White Legs. Half an hour before the horses went out there was a gay scene in the paddock, animated conversations were going on, many tips were given, and the interest in the race was intense. Baron Childs was confident about White Legs; the horse had been highly tried, and Ben Bradley was sanguine of winning. "You gave me the Derby winner," said Eve, "and I shall back your colors again to-day." "Mr. Chesney's horse must have a good chance; he has a very light weight," said the Baron. "I believe he thinks it is a good thing; but he said Gold Star would win the Derby and that did not come off," said Eve. "Do you like my horse?" he asked. "Very much. He is in splendid condition." "Then back him. I feel sure it will bring luck to my colors." "Have you met Mr. Hallam?" she asked. "He has recently come from Australia, and is well known in the racing world there." "I should like to meet him." "Then I will introduce you; he is over there looking at Bandmaster," said Eve, and they walked in that direction. "Here comes Eve with her escort," said Alan, laughing. "The Baron evidently enjoys her society," said Ella. Then as Eve joined them she said: "Has Baron Childs given you another tip?" "Yes, White Legs; I shall back him," answered Eve, and then introduced Mr. Hallam, who at once monopolized the Baron's attention. "So you are going to back the Baron's tip again?" said Alan. "Yes. Why not?" "Because I think my horse will win," said Alan. "Very well then; I will stick to White Legs," said Eve. "Quite right, follow the Baron; it was a favorite cry years ago," was Alan's reply. "You do not appear to care whether I back your horse or not," said Eve sharply. "I don't suppose it will make any difference to his winning chance," said Alan. "The Baron says I bring him good luck when I back his horses," she replied. "Very nice of him, I am sure. I suppose he puts Merry Monarch's Derby win down to that cause." "Perhaps he does; anyhow he's more complimentary than you," snapped Eve. Alan was amused. What was she cross about?