Evelyn Berkeley was very sorry when William Chesney died. He proved a better guide than her father, and her refusal of his offer made no difference in his manner toward her. Alan Chesney knew of his father's partiality for Evelyn Berkeley but did not know he proposed to her, and the rumors of it had not reached him. He admired Evelyn, but was not at all certain he loved her, and so far had not considered it conducive to his happiness that he should take a wife; he was fond of his freedom, of the bachelor life he was leading, he did many things that would be impossible if he married. He had a habit of doing unexpected things, and this was the reason Vincent Newport said, "Does anybody know what he will do?" in answer to Harry Morby's question. Alan Chesney came into the billiard room. "Did you beat him, Harry?" he asked. "Just pipped him on the post," was the answer. "I'm just going to have a look at the horses; will you come?" he said. "Only too pleased," said Vincent, and Harry acquiesced eagerly. "Think we'll drive; horses are more enjoyable than motors--that's if you haven't to go any distance." A pair of beautiful bays were brought round, the shooting wagon was spic and span, almost new, the groom smart and dapper, everything in perfect style. Alan handled the reins and they drove along the well-kept road in the direction of Trent Stud. Their way skirted past "The Forest" and as they passed the gates Evelyn Berkeley came out in her motor. Alan pulled up, she stopped the car, and greetings were exchanged. "We're going to see the horses. Will you come?" asked Alan. She thanked him, said she had an appointment in Nottingham, and from there had to go to Newark. "You'll be in town for the Derby, I suppose?" said Alan. "Yes. Are you running anything at the meeting?" "Three or four. Might pick up a race or two." "You'll not forget to put me on," she said, smiling. "Oh no, I'll not forget. I'll call and see you and give you all particulars; shall you have a house full?" said Alan. "Half a dozen single friends and two married couples; you can stay with me if you like, it will be quite proper," she said, laughing. Alan did not give a direct answer; he merely repeated that he would call. "By Jove, she is handsome!" said Harry enthusiastically. "Not a doubt about that," said Alan placidly, as he touched the horses with the whip and they went along at a fast pace. CHAPTER II TRENT PARK Trent Park was a wonderful place; the house was modern, the new mansion having been built by William Chesney, but the park was full of ancient trees and there were some old buildings. A venerable keep, surrounded by a moat full of water and only reached by a boat, there being no bridge, was not far from the stud buildings.