Stacy, his face flushed, determination plainly showing in his eyes, stretched forth his hand for the sombrero. Riding bravely out into the field, he tossed it to the ground. The first time he rode swiftly by it, leaning over to look at the hat as he passed, holding to the pommel firmly with his left hand.
Stacy dismounted and removed the hat carefully to one side.
"What's that for?" demanded Ned, wonderingly.
"Hat too close to me. I couldn't get it," explained Chunky.
The boys roared.
"Why don't you move the pony? You don't have to move the hat, you ninny."
Once more Stacy approached the sombrero, his pony running well, and as he drew near it, they saw him rise in his saddle just as Tad Butler had done a few minutes before.
"By George, he's going to try it," exclaimed Ned.
"Be careful, Chunky," warned Walter.
"He's got to learn," declared Tad.