when he finally forgot his problems in
troubled slumber.

CHAPTER XII

THE RACE

Mr. Braden regarded Angus Mackay severely across his desk. "Tut, tut,
tut!" he said. "A very bad business, indeed. Bad company. Evil
communications, horse racing, gambling. Very bad!"

"But all I did was to hold the stakes," Angus protested.

"That was just what you didn't do," Mr. Braden pointed out. "It is a
large sum."

"I know that, but I have to have it. I am good for the money. Chetwood
offered to lend it to me or endorse my note, but----"

"Chetwood, hey?" said Mr. Braden with sudden interest. "Why should he do
that?"

"No reason at all. That's why I wouldn't let him."

"Do you know what he is going to do in this country?"

"He spoke of ranching."

"Ha!" said Mr. Braden. "Has he bought any land yet?"

"I don't think so."

"He should be careful," said Mr. Braden. "He should go to some reliable
person. Too many irresponsible dealers. He might get--er--stung. I have
some very attractive propositions. Did he mention any amount that he was
prepared to invest?"

"No. He's going to look around before he buys."

"Glad to show him around," said Mr. Braden heartily. "Bring him to me,
Angus, and he won't regret it. Neither--er--neither will you."

"How about lending me this money?" Angus asked.

"Oh--ah--yes, the money. H'm. Well, under the circumstances I will
advance it on your note. Not business, but to help _you_ out----Well,
don't forget about Chetwood. Bring him in. He might get into wrong
hands, you know. Bring him in, my boy, and you won't regret it."

With the settlement of the money question Angus was greatly relieved. He
was saddled with an additional debt, but at least he was in a position
to pay the winner, which as he looked at it was the main thing.

With Jean he went out to the track early in the afternoon. Here and
there in the crowd he noted the tall figures of the French brothers.
Apparently, they were still taking all the money they could get. On
their way to the stand to secure seats, they came upon Chetwood, who was
eying the motley crowd whose costumes ranged from blankets to Bond
Street coats, with pure delight. But being introduced to Jean, the young
Englishman lost all interest in the crowd, and accompanied them.
Kathleen French waved greeting to them, and they found seats beside her.
It appeared that she had met Chetwood.

"Well, Angus, do you want any Flambeau money?" she laughed.