IDENTIFICATION

Sun (Auckland), Volume 1, Issue 80, 25 June 1927, Page 11

IDENTIFICATION

Tommy Burns had just arrived in Australia, and had gone for a day at Rose hill Racecourse. While he was sorting out his bundle of notes, a tout aDDroached him. Tte Tout: What do you like for this r *obiiginsly. Tommy told him. •*I don’t like that prad,” said the tout “I just saw Tommy Burns put a river on 'Scooter.’ I think that will do me, too.’’ •*ja zat so?’ grinned Tommy. “I*ll bet you a fiver you don't know Tommy bet what?’* ejaculated the tout. “Yeah, come on! Burns kidded him, holding out a £5 note. “You’re Tommy Burns, of course!” chortled the tout, pocketing the note. Tommy managed to grin feebly. “Wait, Tommy,” the tout said. “I’ll hell l you get it back. We'll have a joke on a fellow that I know. Here he comes now. Come here. Micko!” ‘Haven't got time, Bill. Tommy Burns is clerking here to-day for a bookmaker friend of his, and I want to nee him.” “HI bet you a tenner he isn't." "(Jo on, I know he is.” “Put it up!” “Too right! Ten more if you like.” ‘Tve got no more money. This gentleman will bet you.” “Right! Make it 20!” "Certainly!” Tommy agreed, handing over the money. “Come on with me,” said tout number two, walking over to a bookie’s stand. Then to the clerk: “What is you? name, please?” Tommy Burns—but not the fighter, mate!” Tsmmy was losing interest in the races. “(Jood on you!” chuckled Tommy, revenged at last. The money was put up, and Tommy looked around for a disinterested party to identify him. '‘You’ve lost!” said the stakeholder to his confederate. “This is Tommy Burns.” “No fear, mate! His name is Noah Brusso!” Of course, it was. “15a y. who the hell is Tommy Burns, anyway?’ wondered the bewildered Tommy', as the touts went jubilantly on their way.