race, not the portent of one," said Lola; "otherwise I should have
particularly noticed all helpful details."

"The Derby isn't run till to-morrow," said Mrs. de Claux; "do you think
you are likely to have the same dream again to-night? If so; you can fix
your attention on the important detail of the animal's appearance."

"I'm afraid I shan't sleep at all to-night," said Lola pathetically;
"every fifth night I suffer from insomnia, and it's due to-night."

"It's most provoking," said Bertie; "of course, we can back both horses,
but it would be much more satisfactory to have all our money on the
winner. Can't you take a sleeping-draught, or something?"

"Oakleaves, soaked in warm water and put under the bed, are recommended
by some," said Mrs. de Claux.

"A glass of Benedictine, with a drop of eau-de-Cologne--" said Sir
Lulworth.

"I have tried every known remedy," said Lola, with dignity; "I've been a
martyr to insomnia for years."

"But now we are being martyrs to it," said Odo sulkily; "I particularly
want to land a big coup over this race."

"I don't have insomnia for my own amusement," snapped Lola.

"Let us hope for the best," said Mrs. de Claux soothingly; "to-night may
prove an exception to the fifth-night rule."