A moment later
the explanation flashed on her that "Better Not" was the name of
one of the runners in the big race. Clovis was already pencilling
it on his cuff, and Colonel Drake, in his turn, was signalling to
every one in hoarse whispers and dumb-show the fact that he had
all along fancied "B.N."
Early next morning a sheaf of telegrams went Townward,
representing the market commands of the house-party and servants'
hall.
It was a wet afternoon, and most of Lady Susan's guests hung about
the hall, waiting apparently for the appearance of tea, though it
was scarcely yet due. The advent of a telegram quickened every
one into a flutter of expectancy; the page who brought the
telegram to Clovis waited with unusual alertness to know if there
might be an answer.
Clovis read the message and gave an exclamation of annoyance.
"No bad news, I hope," said Lady Susan. Every one else knew that
the news was not good.
"It's only the result of the Derby," he blurted out; "Sadowa won;
an utter outsider."
"Sadowa!" exclaimed Lady Susan; "you don't say so! How
remarkable! It's the first time I've ever backed a horse; in fact
I disapprove of horse-racing, but just for once in a way I put
money on this horse, and it's gone and won.
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