"Surely, surely, 'Scotty,'" pleaded the Woman, "you'll not use anuntried dog to-day of all days. Baldy has never shown anything more thanjust ordinary speed, and you know a leader has to set the pace for themall. If he hasn't the pride inside his work, the spirit, he's a failure; andBaldy," desperately, "is just a plodder."

But "Scotty" was firm. "He's more than that; you couldn't see what hedid in the storm on the Hot Springs Trail. He's our best chance." Then,"Baldy in the lead, Matt, and be quick; we're almost due now at thepost." And so it was Baldy who led the Allan and Darling entry in theSolomon Derby.

It took the strongest self-control and the keenest desire not to shake"Scotty's" faith in him, to keep Baldy from bolting when he movedthrough those throngs whose nearness roused in him such unaccountablefear.

Most of the dogs, now more or less accustomed to these gatherings,stood quietly indifferent to the clamor and confusion.

Jack McMillan was distinctly annoyed by it all; he did not wish to havestrangers pushing against him, stroking his back, and even takingliberties with his velvety ears. What was the use of a Black Past, if itdid not protect one from such unwelcome familiarities?