Dick shook hands all around and bowed himself out
“A very manly and likeable boy,” said Mr. Willing, as he disappeared through the door.
“Indeed he is,” replied Shirley.
An hour later the party was speeding along in the direction of Lexington.
Gabriel already had been shipped home, and they knew that they would find him there, safe and sound, when they returned. Shirley had not seen the horse since just after the race, and was anxious to call upon him in his own home.
So, the first thing after their arrival at the farm, she, Mabel, Leonard and Jimmy made straight for Gabriel’s stall. The racehorse received them with whinnies of joy.
“Good old Gabriel,” said Shirley, dashing into the stall and throwing her arms around the animal’s neck. “I knew you would win for us. And think what you have accomplished. You have saved the farm for Dad and me.”
The others now approached, and Gabriel put aside his customary unfriendliness toward strangers, and allowed all to pat him to their hearts’ content.
“Well,” said Leonard, “I have had the time of my life here, and I am sorry to say that I shall have to leave you to-morrow.”
“Leave us?” exclaimed Shirley in surprise.