Hotspur was tethered in a square paddock, well behind the stables, Sampson, or "Samp," an enormous watch-dog who would have let no stranger approach, beside him. But Samp she knew well, and quieted him with a soft word.
What made Sally so sure that she could ride a great fiery horse she could not have told, but some natures there are so fearless and yet so sweet that animals will follow them wherever they may lead.
And when Maid Sally went up to Hotspur and drew down the beautiful short head and patted and pinched the soft nose, then, letting down a couple of bars and pulling at the bridle, led him over the thick turf, the great creature followed with slow, silent tread as the brave young girl went out into the back road. Samp went back as he was bidden, obedient as a child.
On went Sally, her heart thumping lest some one should hear and sharply order her back.
At a little distance she led Hotspur to a stile, and climbing up, still holding the bridle, she mounted without accident.
"Now up and away, Hotspur!" she cried, pressing her feet to the powerful sides. And up and away it was!
For Sally neither drew rein, nor did Hotspur once break his long, splendid stride until nearly an hour had passed.
"FOR SALLY NEITHER DREW REIN NOR DID HOTSPUR ONCE BREAK HIS LONG, SPLENDID STRIDE."
Sally had noted the direction from which the three horsemen had come in the afternoon. She knew also that Pamunkey turnpike was almost a day's journey from Williamsburg.