“Steady, boys—steady!” called the driver to the horses, which seemed frightened by the storm and the weight of the wagon pushing them from behind.
The speed was faster now, though Tanker Ike was doing his best to have the animals hold back the wagon. The horses were almost “sitting down,” and were fairly sliding along.
Suddenly there sounded a sharp snap, and the wagon seemed to plunge forward.
“What’s that?” cried Mr. Pierce.
“Brake’s busted!” shouted Mr. Blender. “Now we’re in for it!”
He loosened his hold on the reins slightly, and swung his long whip over the heads of the astonished horses with a crack like that of a rifle.
“Go on!” he yelled. “Go on! Run!”
The steeds began to gallop, just in time to prevent the wagon, so unexpectedly released from the hold of the brake, from striking them, and they dashed down the mountain-side, dragging the vehicle after them.