“But there are many cream-colored horses; how could you be certain that this is the one? Or why do you imagine it is?”
“By the peculiar manner in which she tosses her head. The one I speak of belonged to a circus company and had been trained to perform several tricks. I feel quite sure that this is the animal.”
“But surely you do not intend hinting anything of the kind to them?” said Hilda, anxiously.
“No, but Planchette is perfectly quiet. If you will hold the lines a moment I will take a circuit and come up back of the tents, and while the gypsies are at supper will examine that horse.”
“But what proof would a closer view give you?”
“One of the tricks of the circus horse was to kneel if touched upon a particular spot on his head. I know that spot and will put it to the test. You can watch from the carriage and see if I am right.”
“Oh, Cousin Fred, do be careful! Suppose they should see you?”
“But I do not intend them to see me, and will be back in a moment.” He swung himself lightly from the carriage and disappeared behind the thick underbrush.
Hilda gazed anxiously in the direction of the tents and saw Fred reach the place, keeping at the same time his attention upon the gypsies.
Patting the animal gently, and speaking in a low, soothing tone, his fingers glided to a spot upon her forehead. Instantly the intelligent creature knelt and laid her mouth in the outstretched palm of Fred. He raised his arm and she arose to her feet; and convinced that he was not mistaken, Fred went swiftly behind the tents on the way back to the carriage.