A moment he stared at me in perplexity, and then with a dab of his spur forced the black horse he rode against the ropes.
"Damn me if I knew you, Fortesque," he exclaimed cordially.

"But come on through; there's a gate yonder.

Fall back now, lads, and let the officer pass.

That's it; ride 'em down if they won't make way.

Here's a spot where you can see the whole field from the saddle." I was somewhat to the right of the big stand, the restive heels of my horse keeping the crowd away, and with a clear view as far as the river bank.