The betting Father

Father Brown was a man for the horses and attended every meeting at the local course. He got to know jockeys, trainers and officials and was a regular visitor to the 'business end' of the racing scene.

One day, whilst breezing round the training area he came upon trainer Murphy who was giving sugar lumps to the outsider.

'I hope that's not dope you're giving the poor beast?' said the priest jokingly.

'Indeed not, Father,' said Murphy.' Tis only sugar. Here, swallow a cube and I will as well.'

Satisfied, the priest wandered on as Murphy dialled a number on his mobile phone and said:

'Mick, it's all set. The horse has had the treatment and he'll go like the wind. In fact if anything passes it, it will be me or Father Brown!'