Bob called to Dr. Rander to wait for him. Then, pulling his mount out of the line, he placed his foot in the stirrup and threw his leg across the sturdy little mule’s back.
But just then something happened. The animal wheeled about, and, throwing its hind feet high in the air, it leaped forward with a snort of resentment.
“Help!” cried the amused and yet worried Bob.
“What do you want me to do?” inquired Joe, taking in the scene with interest.
“Grab hold of his tail! Do anything!” Despite his serious predicament, Bob could not help laughing, although he was angered.
“Get hold of his tail, huh? Not much.” Joe intended to derive as much amusement as possible from his friend’s plight.
All joking was cast aside a moment later when, at an unexpected moment, the mule gave a quick turn to the left and threw Bob to the ground. The youth caught the fall with his arm, and so escaped injury, but his anger was as strong as ever.
“I’ll fix you, you——”
Bob did not finish the words, for at that moment the mule leaped forward and galloped off at a rapid pace.