“Crow” was a broad, heavy-set cow-puncher, wearing chaps, and in the endeavor to “run around agin,” I found my progress somewhat impeded by his spurs, which caught in my skirt and very nearly upset me.
All the riders wore their heavy boots and spurs, and it required real agility to avoid being stepped on or having one’s skirt torn to ribbons. I was devoutly thankful that chiffon and tulle ball gowns were not worn on ranches.
There was more to avoid than spurs. We had to dance about the kitchen and avoid the stove, the sink and the tabled musicians, to say nothing of the nails in the floor. But after a few hours’ practice, I began to feel qualified to waltz on top of the House of the Seven Gables, and avoid at least six of them.
Finally, the caller-out shouted loudly:
“Allemande, Joe! Right hand to pardner and around you go.
Balance to corners, don’t be slack;
Turn right around and take a back track.
When you git home, don’t be afraid,
Swing her agin and all promenade.”
My partner obeyed every command with such vigor that when at last he led me to my seat I was panting and dizzy; nor had I quite recovered my breath when the music struck up again, and Tex led me forth.