During the ride Joe recited his experiences to the squatter, who in return related how Willie had picked up the tracks, sighting first the horse and then the dog, and followed the trail till they came upon the sleeping lad.
It was a weary but not unhappy boy who reached the homestead at length. The household, duly apprised by Willy, who had ridden on ahead, were in readiness to cheer the conquering hero.
CHAPTER XIX
CONCERNING WILD HORSES
"Now welcome, welcome, master mine,
Thrice welcome to the noble chase:
Nor earthly sport, nor sport divine,
Can take such honourable place."
Ballad of the Wild Huntsmen.
"Where's Floss and Jeannie, Harry? Don't see 'em in the yard this morning."
"No, sir, they didn't come in with the others."
"Hoo's that, mon?"
"I harsk'd Jacky about 'em when he yarded the others, an' he said they wasn't with the rest. Too lazy, I bet, to look after 'em."
"But I dinna see Tallboy or Dolly, eyther," said the squatter as he peered through the rails at the horses.