But he allowed his horse his head for a long time, and then he gradually slowed him down.

No human being was in sight now and he spoke to the noble animal soothingly.
"Good old boy," he said; "the strongest, the swiftest, the bravest, and the truest.

I was sorry to make those red stripes on your sides, but it had to be done.

Only quickness saved us." The horse neighed.

He was still quivering from excitement and exertion.