Volence walked slowly over to the bench and sat down. “That’s like something out of a book,” he said. “You know,” he continued, “one of the reasons I came to New York was to see if you wouldn’t sell the Black. I’ve retired Sun Raider to stud at my farm in Kentucky, but I still need a few more good stallions. The Black could have done much to improve the bloodline of the American thoroughbred, you know. At least, that’s my belief.”

“That’s just what I said,” Henry agreed.

Alec looked at Mr. Volence. “There’s still more to the story … something that happened the night before Abu Ishak showed up.” Then he proceeded to tell him about the mysterious night visitor who had attempted to kill the Black.

“Whew!” Mr. Volence said when Alec finished. “And you don’t think there’s any connection between Abu Ishak and the Black’s attacker?”

Alec’s gaze shifted to Henry, then back to Mr. Volence. “There may be a connection somewhere,” he said. “I’m sure he recognized the medallion on the gold chain.”

“He may have recognized it, Alec,” Henry insisted, “but I’m certain he didn’t have anything to do with the attack on the Black.”

Mr. Volence nodded. “I’m inclined to agree with Henry, Alec. Abu Ishak would have no reason for wanting to harm his own horse.”

“You’re probably right,” Alec said, “but still …”

The three sat in silence for a few minutes. Finally, Mr. Volence slapped his hands on his knees and said, “Well, I guess it’ll be one of those unsolved mysteries. Too bad the Black got away. We’ll probably never see another like him.” He stood up. “I plan to go abroad in a few weeks to see if I can’t pick up some stallions.”

Alec eyed Mr. Volence. “Where do you think you’ll go, sir?” he asked. Henry noted a strained note in his voice.

“Probably England, Alec. Have a better chance of getting some good stock there than any place else.”

“Why?”

The tall man looked down at Alec and there was a slight twinkle in his eyes. “Say, what are you driving at, Alec? As far as I know, and I’ve been in this business a long time, the English are pretty good at horse-breeding. Take a look at the records,” he added, smiling. “You’ll find I’m right.”

Alec’s face was serious and his gaze didn’t waver. “How about the Black, sir? Do you think that he was born, well, overnight? Don’t you think a horse like that … you said yourself that we’ll probably never see another like him … don’t you think he’s the result of years and years of careful breeding?”

Mr. Volence looked at Henry and they both nodded.

Alec continued, “I don’t think Abu Ishak is any amateur at this horse-breeding business.