Next morning, when he was going away, he apologised for asking leave to mount at the stables, saying his led horse was so vicious, and the one he was riding so gay, that it was quite possible their legs might find themselves within the verandah, or do some mischief to the young shrubs which were the pride and joy of my heart.

This gentleman rode beautifully, and I used to like to see the courage and patience with which he always conquered the most unruly horse.
"We will come up to the stable and see you mount," I cried, seizing my hat.

Of course every one followed my lead, and it was to the sound of mingled jeers and compliments that poor Mr.T---- mounted his fiery steed, and seized hold of the leading rein of his pack-horse.

But this animal had no intention of taking his departure with propriety or tranquillity: he pranced and shied, flinging out his heels as he wildly danced round to every point of the compass, in a circle.

Gradually he drew Mr.T---- and his chestnut a dozen yards away from the stable, and it was just then that I perceived poor Kitty sitting close under a tussock.