"It is now five minutes to post time," the voice over the public address system boomed out.

Judi, who was talking to Bill Hill, the Sales Manager, turned to Grace and asked, "You making a bet on this race?"

Grace shook her head silently.

"Want to split one on number three?"

Grace, biting her lower lip in uncertainty, shook her head again. It would be fun just to bet a dollar. After all, what was a dollar? Still, though, her earlier resolve not to foolishly waste money came back to her.

Judi disappeared toward the sellers' windows with Bill Hill. Doug, another one of the car salesmen came over to the table and asked, "What you betting on this race, Gracie?"

"Nothing."

Doug glanced out toward the tote board. "That number seven looks awfully good at the price. Seven to one; why he shouldn't be more than three to one at the most."

Grace had absolutely no idea of what he was talking about, so remained silent in order not to show her ignorance.

"I think I'll try a fifteen dollar combination," Doug said, then turned back to her. "You sure?"

"Positive."

She was sitting there alone, waiting the return of the rest of the party from the sellers' windows when a tall, distinguished looking man who had been seated at Sam Austin's table came over and smiled down at her. "You're Mrs. Hope," he said smiling.

"Yes?" It wasn't an invitation, but it was non-committal.

"I'm Jim Meloney. Sam was just telling me you're his new Office Manager. I couldn't believe it, you look so young."

Grace dimpled in spite of herself. "Thank you." She paused a second, feeling a bit awkward about his standing there, then asked, "Would you care to sit down for a moment, Mister Meloney?"

"Why, thank you, Mrs. Hope. Yes, if I'm not intruding." He pulled out the chair next to her and seated himself. An expensive cigarette case and lighter was pulled from his pocket. "Do you smoke?"