"See here," ordered Mr. Merriam, suddenly, taking Jack by the arm, "you're a horse, a full blooded Arab steed—understand?"
He gave young Benson a push that sent that youngster down to the ground on all fours.
"You're General Washington, out to take a ride on your horse," announced Mr. Merriam, turning to Hal. "It's a ride for your health. Do you understand? It will be wholly for your health to take that ride!"
Hal Hastings couldn't help comprehending. With a sheepish grin he sat astride of Jack Benson's back as the latter stood on all fours.
"Go ahead with your ride, General," called Mr. Merriam.
Jack pranced as best he could, on all fours, Hal making the load of his own weight as light as he could. Over the ground the pair moved in this nonsensical ride, the cadets following and grinning their appreciation of the nonsense.
Two of the young men followed, holding Eph by the arms between them.
Mr. Merriam now turned upon the unhappy freckled boy.
"Down on all fours," ordered Mr. Merriam. "You're the measly dog that barked at General Washington on that famous ride. Bark, you wretched yellow cur—bark, bark, bark!"
Though Eph Somers was madder than ever, he had just enough judgment remaining to feel that the wisest thing would be to obey instructions. So, on all fours, Eph raced after Jack, barking at him.
"See how frightened the horse is," muttered one of the midshipmen.