"But do you know how to manage a horse? I thought you were only just beginning to learn."
"Oh, no, I have been learning this great while; only they don't think I know how, and they have never seen me. Are you just come, Miss Gordon?"
"Yes, and they are bringing out Sophronisbe for me do you know Sophronisbe? Look, that light gray; isn't she beautiful? she's the loveliest creature in the whole stud."
"O, I know!" said Ellen; "I saw you on her the other day; she went charmingly. How long shall I be kept walking here, Miss Gordon?"
"Why, I don't know; I should think they would find out. What does De Courcy say to you?"
"O, he comes and looks at me, and says, 'Très bien très bien,' and 'Allez comme ça,' and then he walks off."
"Well, I declare that is too bad," said Miss Gordon, laughing. "Look here I've got a good thought in my head: suppose you mount Sophronisbe in my place, without saying anything to anybody, and let them see what you are up to. Can you trust yourself? she's very spirited."
"I could trust myself," said Ellen; "but, thank you, I think I had better not."
"Afraid?"
"No, not at all; but my aunt and father would not like it."