"You do it," said the little boy. "I'm afraid."
So Puss jumped on the pony's back and gently urged him into the river. After going out some distance he stopped, for the water was almost up to his boots. "I guess I can wash him now," cried Puss, and, leaning over, first on one side and then on the other, he splashed up the water and scrubbed off the mud and dirt until the pony was as clean as a whistle.
"Now," exclaimed Puss, "he looks like himself again." The pony seemed quite relieved also, for after gaining the bank he neighed and kicked up his heels in a delighted manner.
"He looks better than ever," said the little boy. "He was really quite dusty before I lent him to the lady."
"Yes, he's in fine shape," said Puss. "I must now leave you, for I am on a long journey."
"Thank you," said the boy. "A pleasant journey to you, my good Sir Cat."
How our little hero, Puss in Boots, Jr., at last finds his famous father, Puss in Boots, at the castle of my Lord of Carabas, will be told in Further Adventures of Puss in Boots, Jr.