"Now, then, gentlemen, the Court is informed that this match is to be
for the sum of twenty-five hundred dollars, wagered by Captain Orme,
against a certain black stallion horse, the same not introduced in
evidence, but stated by Mr. Cowles to be of the value of twenty-five
hundred dollars in the open market. As the match is stated to be on even
terms, the said John Cowles guarantees this certain horse to be of such
value, or agrees to make good any deficit in that value. Is that
understood, gentlemen?"
"I did not ask any guarantee," said Orme. "I know the horse, and he is
worth more than twice that sum. You are using me very handsomely,
gentlemen."
"Judge Reeves is right," said I. "The match is to be even." We bowed to
each other.
The judge felt in his pockets. "Ahem, gentlemen," he resumed. "The Court
being, as it were, broke, will some one be so good as to lend the Court
a silver coin? Thank you," to Williams, "and now, gentlemen, will you
toss for the order of precedence?"
We threw the coin, and I lost the toss. Orme sent me to the score first,
with the purpose, as I knew, of studying his man.
I loaded at the open bowls, and adjusted the caps as I stepped to the
score.
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