The horse several times snorted loudly and stared fixedly at the terrible face before him; but as I constantly patted and coaxed him he did not refuse to advance.

I checked him when within about six yards of the lion.
This would have made a magnificent picture, as the horse, with astounding courage, faced the lion at bay.

Both animals kept their eyes fixed upon each other, the one beaming with rage, the other cool with determination.

This was enough.

I dropped the reins upon his neck; it was a signal that Tetel perfectly understood, and he stood firm as a rock, for he knew that I was about to fire.