“Two bits I catch him!” he shouted. “Watch them mules!”
He brought his hand down sharply on his pony’s flank. The rabbit was about a hundred yards ahead, running easily.
“Wow!” Nick yelled. “Let’s go, bronc!”
The bronc went. At least, his head went up and his rear lowered. Nick spread his arms wide and slid gently to the ground.
“Well, you ole leather-bustin’ sidewinder!” Nick exclaimed in pretended anger. “Who told you to do that?”
The others watched him with amusement. A half smile came to Silent’s lips.
“Now look-a-here, you.” Nick went close to his pony and whispered into his ear. The horse nodded several times, aided by Nick’s hand on the bridle.
“Understand now? Then let’s go!”
With a bound Nick landed in the saddle. He yanked off his hat, slapped the pony—and promptly slid again to the ground. By this time the rabbit was miles away.
The horse stood quietly, eyeing his master with a surprised look in his eyes. Nick, from the ground, shook his fist wildly.