struck with the willow rod with all his force as they

came up. One tremendous bound, and they were

across, but Dick had to lie flat on the mustang's back

as it crashed through the bushes to avoid being scraped

off by the trees. Again they were on the open plain,

and the wild horse began to show signs of exhaustion.

Now was its rider's opportunity to assert his dominion.

He plied the willow rod and urged the panting

horse on, until it was white with foam and laboured

a little in its gait. Then Dick gently drew the halter,