Leopold de Rothschild (1845-1917) was encouraged by his mother to persevere with his Cambridge studies, so that he could take his place at New Court alongside his two brothers. As a partner in the firm, he was as popular with the staff as he was with his acquaintances in the sporting arena, his more favoured environment. Leo's Southcourt Stud produced a number of winning race horses, making him extremely popular with the public too.
This card, which he received in 1904, bears the slogan “Put your money on Merriment – do it this minute, I tell you there isn’t another that’s in it” showing horses neck and neck, and a jockey in the Rothschild colours of blue and gold silk; Leopold’s horse St Amant had famously won the 1904 Derby.
