章 60: A Day at The Races(Part-2)

As the day wore on, Victor and Anthony experienced every aspect of the racing world. They placed bets at various bookmakers, carefully observing the differences in odds and the demeanour of the bookies. Victor insisted on using his own money, refusing any special treatment.

They visited the Tattersalls enclosure, named after the famous horse auctioneer Richard Tattersall. This area, reserved for members and distinguished guests, offered a more refined atmosphere and better views of the races. Victor noted the social interactions here, the subtle networking and deal-making happening over glasses of champagne.

"We should consider hosting some exclusive events in this area," Victor mused. "Not just for racing, but for business networking. It could be a valuable draw for our more affluent patrons."

Anthony nodded, making another note. "Perhaps a monthly soiree? We could invite local business leaders and politicians."

They moved on to the Silver Ring, an area that catered to the middle classes. Here, the atmosphere was more relaxed, with families and groups of friends enjoying picnics on the grass. Victor was pleased to see the diversity of the crowd and the general air of enjoyment.

"This is where we can really make a difference," Victor said. "Racing has long been seen as a sport for the elite. By making it accessible and enjoyable for the middle classes, we're changing that perception."

As they walked, Victor pointed out various aspects of the racing world to Anthony, explaining their significance and potential for improvement.

"Look at the tipsters," he said, nodding towards a group of men huddled near the betting rings. "They're a crucial part of the racing ecosystem. We should consider partnering with some of the more reputable ones, perhaps offering them a space within our grounds in exchange for a percentage of their earnings."

Anthony looked surprised but quickly jotted down the idea. "That could be quite profitable, sir. And it would add an air of legitimacy to their operations."

They paused to watch the parade ring, where the horses for the next race were being led around for inspection. Victor explained the importance of this ritual to Anthony.

"This is where the real aficionados make their decisions," he said. "They're looking at the horse's gait, its musculature, even its demeanour. We should consider offering some educational sessions on what to look for. It would help our patrons feel more informed and engaged."

As the day progressed, they explored every corner of the racecourse. They visited the infield, where families were enjoying picnics and children were playing games. Victor suggested adding more organized activities here, perhaps some pony rides or a small petting zoo to keep younger visitors entertained.

They spent some time in the rails, the area closest to the track where serious bettors gathered to watch the races. Victor was impressed by the intensity of the atmosphere here and suggested to Anthony that they could offer some premium standing-room-only tickets for this area.

"It's not about comfort here," he explained. "It's about being close to the action. Some people would pay a premium for that, even if it means standing for hours."

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the track, Victor and Anthony made their way back towards the exit. Both men were tired but exhilarated from the day's experiences.

"Overall impressions, sir?" Anthony asked as they waited for their hansom cab.

Victor was quiet for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "I'm impressed, Anthony. We've created something special here. It's not just a racing venue - it's a community space, a place where people from all walks of life can come together and enjoy themselves."

Anthony beamed with pride. "Thank you, sir. We've worked hard to make it so."

"But," Victor continued, "there's always room for improvement. I want to see plans for expanding the family areas - perhaps adding some educational components about horse care and racing history. We should also look into more community outreach programs. Racing has a reputation as a rich man's sport - I want us to change that perception."

Anthony looked surprised but quickly recovered. "Of course, Mr. Mallory. I'll start working on proposals right away."

As they clattered back towards the city centre, Victor gazed out the window, lost in thought. The racing venture had exceeded his expectations in many ways. It wasn't just a successful business venture or a convenient front for their other operations.

"Anthony," he said suddenly, "I want you to look into acquiring more properties like this. Not just here in London, but in other cities as well. Manchester, Liverpool, Edinburgh. We could create a network of racecourses, each with its own unique character but all adhering to our standards of quality and accessibility."

Anthony nodded, a mix of excitement and trepidation in his eyes. "Of course, sir. But... won't expanding so quickly draw attention? From both legitimate businesses and... other interests?"

Victor's eyes hardened slightly. "Let me worry about that, Anthony. You focus on making it happen. We're going to change the face of this industry, one track at a time."

As they pulled up to Victor's townhouse, the gas lamps were being lit along the street, casting a warm glow over the cobblestones. Victor stepped out of the cab, feeling energized despite the long day.

"Thank you, Anthony," he said. "For everything. Our racing venture is a success because of your hard work."

Anthony looked touched by the rare praise. "Thank you, sir. It's been my pleasure."

Victor watched as the cab clattered away, then turned to enter his home. But instead of heading to his study as he usually would, he found himself drawn to the small library at the back of the house. He lit a lamp and settled into a comfortable armchair, pulling out a sheet of paper and a pen.

For the next hour, Victor wrote furiously, jotting down all the ideas and improvements he had thought of during the day. He wanted to capture everything while it was still fresh in his mind.

The following morning dawned crisp and clear, the London fog had lifted to reveal a city bustling with activity. Victor Mallory sat in his study, the events of the previous day still fresh in his mind. He had spent most of the night pondering the improvements and innovations he wished to implement, and now it was time to share his vision with Anthony.

As the clock struck nine, a gentle knock on the door announced Anthony's arrival. "Enter," Victor called, his voice carrying a hint of excitement he rarely allowed himself to display.

Anthony stepped into the room, his usual air of efficiency tempered by a look of curiosity. "Good morning, Mr. Mallory. I trust you had a restful evening?"

Victor waved away the pleasantry. "Never mind that, Anthony. Take a seat. We have much to discuss."

Anthony settled into the chair across from Victor's desk, notebook at the ready. Victor leaned forward, his eyes alight with the fervour of a man possessed by a grand vision.

"Yesterday's excursion was most illuminating," Victor began. "We've laid a solid foundation, Anthony, but there's so much more we can do. So much more we must do if we're to truly revolutionize the racing world."

Anthony nodded, pen poised above the paper. "I'm all ears, sir."

Victor stood, pacing the room as he began to outline his ideas. "First and foremost, we must address the betting system. It's the lifeblood of any racecourse, and ours must be beyond reproach."

He detailed his plans for a centralized odds system, explaining how it would ensure fairness and transparency. "We'll need to invest in some new equipment, of course. Perhaps we could approach some of those clever chaps at the Royal Society about developing a mechanical odds calculator."

Anthony's eyebrows rose at the suggestion, but he dutifully noted it down. Victor continued, describing his ideas for improved betting tickets and a membership card system.

"Imagine, Anthony, a small card that a bettor could carry with them. It would track their wagers, and their winnings, perhaps even offer rewards for frequent attendance. We could call it... the Thoroughbred Club."

"An intriguing concept, sir," Anthony murmured, his pen scratching rapidly across the paper.

Victor moved on to discuss the tipsters. "We've been letting a valuable resource go to waste, Anthony. These men have knowledge and insight. We should bring them into the fold, so to speak."

He outlined his plans for vetting and partnering with reputable tipsters, explaining how it could add an air of legitimacy to their operations while providing a new revenue stream for the racecourse.

"But they must adhere to a strict code of conduct," Victor insisted. "No false promises, no exorbitant fees. We'll provide them with a space to operate, and in return, we'll take a percentage of their earnings."

Anthony nodded, making a note to begin drafting a code of conduct for the tipsters.

Victor's voice grew as he moved on to discuss the physical layout of the racecourse. He described his vision for a redesigned betting ring, sketching out a circular design on a piece of paper.