Oh! the delight of a sweeping gallop in the open country! the elate consciousness of strength and liberty, as the magnificent animal beneath you exerts every thew and sinew in obedience to your voice and hand; you and he together forming one resistless power, free as the rushing air—able to overleap or bear down any obstacle! The jocund tones wafted back by the breeze attested the efficacy of Charley's prescription.
"That bend hides 'the Castle;'" called out Arthur.
"I will be the first to see it!" exclaimed Carry, and as the turning was gained, she raised herself from the saddle. It was an unguarded moment;—the horse circled the bend in a run; and she was thrown directly in the road of the trampling hoofs behind. Charley's horse fell back upon his haunches;—there was giant might in the hand that reined him;—an inch nearer, and she was lost! for his fore-feet grazed her shoulder.
"My dearest love!" cried the agitated Arthur, raising her in his arms. "Thank God! you are not killed!"
"I am not hurt, dear Arthur! you are all so frightened! it was very careless in me. Indeed I do not require support—I am not injured in the least!"
"Are you sure?" questioned Ida, anxiously: "or do you say it for our sakes?"
"I was never more free from pain. And I am able and ready to go on!"
"You were her saviour!" Arthur griped his brother's hand, with a trembling lip.
"No thanks! I would not run down a cow or sheep if I could help it."