They may have taken it...

or ridden over and broken it." We went down to the spot, and picked it up where it lay, half-concealed among the brittle, dry scrub of milk-bushes.

I examined the bearings carefully; though there were hoof-marks close by, it had received no hurt.

I blew up the tire, which was somewhat flabby, and went on to untie my sturdy pony.

The moment I looked at her I saw the poor little brute was wearied out with her two long rides in the sweltering sun.