“Not bullocks, father,” said the lad proudly. “I’ll walk.”
“Rather a long walk, Nic,” said the doctor quietly. “Well, I can walk part of the way, and ride on the waggon the rest. But will it take us more than a day?”
“Yes,” said the doctor dilly; “it will take us more than a day. But come here.”
He led the way to a rough, shed-like building, entered, and a couple of sleek, well-bred horses turned their heads from the posts to which they were haltered, and whinnied.
“Will one of these do for your lordship to ride?” said the doctor, smiling, as he went up to and patted the horses in turn.
“Yes!” cried Nic. “What beauties, father!”
“Glad you like them. I bought that sorrel nag for you. He isn’t up to my weight.”
“But—”
“Well, but what, boy?”
“I’ve never been on a horse, father,” said Nic, with a shamefaced air.