Page:Adventures of Susan Hopley (Volume 1).pdf/99

86 planned the whole thing. But it'll come out sooner or later. Some on 'em'll peachwhen a man's going to be tucked up he likes to make a clean breast of it. He don't care much for his pals then."

"I believe you are not far wrong," said Mr. Gaveston, as he moved off the steps.

"A fine mare, Sir," said the landlord, inspecting the girths to ascertain that all was right"and a nice 'un to go, I'll warrant her. Had her long, Sir?"

"Almost since she could carry a saddle," replied Gaveston. "She's something the worse of hard work nowar'n't you, Bess? Your ostler has done her justice, however," added he, drawing some silver from his pocket.

"I always take care to have a man in that situation that knows his business," answered the landlord"this is a Newmarket lad, and I'll back him against any ostler in England."

"From Newmarket are you?" said Gaveston, eyeing the man.

"Ees, Sir," said Jèm, "but I lived at the Spread Eagle at Epsom since thatand I think I've seen this here mare afore"

"Very likely," said Mr. Gaveston, drily; and returning the silver to his pocket he drew out