The wheels crunched swiftly and smoothly along the ruts, or, striking sharply against a stone, made the old wagon bounce and creak.

Dolly was putting her best foot foremost, and her ears were laid back close to her head: though that, by reason of the darkness, Professor Valeyon could not see.
He and Dolly had travelled this road in company so often, however, and every turn and dip was so well known to him, that it never would have occurred to him to feel any anxiety.

Beyond keeping a firm hold of the reins, he let the mare have her own way.
In a few minutes the willow stretch was passed, and they began to stretch with vigorous swing up the slope.

Dolly's haunches were visible, working below in the darkness, and occasionally a spark of fire was struck from the rock by her hoof.

Really she was doing well to-night.