He stroked the horse's head and the animal rubbed his nose against his shoulder.

The conquest was complete.
Bridle in hand, Obed led the way and Ned met him.
"I think our good horse here was lonesome," said Obed, "Horses that are used to human beings miss 'em for a while when they lose 'em, and we're not enslaving our friend by taking him.

Here's a lariat coiled at the saddle bow; we'll just tether him by that, and let him go on with his grazing, while we get our breakfast.

You will notice, too, Ned, that we've taken more than a horse.

See this pair of holster pistols swung across the saddle and ammunition to fit.