I went to O'Connor in the stable-yard,
and consulted him as to my chance of obtaining the coveted berth.
O'Connor was distinctly encouraging. He thought nine rather young
for a postilion, but when I had grown a little, and had gained
more experience, he saw no insuperable objections to my obtaining
the post. The leader-postilion was O'Connor's nephew, a smart-
looking, light-built boy of seventeen, named Byrne. Byrne was less
hopeful about my chance. He assured me that such a rare
combination of physical and intellectual qualities were required
for a successful leader-rider, that it was but seldom that they
were found, as in his case, united in the same person. That my
mother had met with no accident whilst driving was solely due to
his own consummate skill, and his wonderful presence of mind.
Little Byrne, however, was quite affable, and allowed me to try on
his livery, including the coveted big silver arm-badge and his
top-boots. In my borrowed plumes I gave the stablemen to
understand that I was as good as engaged already as postilion.
Byrne informed me of some of the disadvantages of the position.
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