At last the detachment was halted and the line faced about. Now the detachment rode in reverse direction around the tan-bark.
By this means Dodge became the leader.
Through the walk and the trot, he managed to get along all right, though he was nervous.
"Stick to your saddle, Mr. Dodge!" called Captain Hall. "Don't bump it, sir. Settle down and ride steadily."
Then, an instant later, just as Dodge was beginning to feel secure:
"Gallop!"
Dodge's wild mount gave a snort, then bolted.
"Whoa, you unruly beast!" roared Dodge. Behind him rode the detachment, grimly merry, though with not a flicker of a smile showing.
Bert's horse pulled away, and bolted, with Dodge tugging at the bridle.
Greg, riding behind him, endeavored to bridge the gap.