A landslide blocked the only trail up." "Bostil, them hosses, the racers special, ought to be brought acrost the river," said Holley, earnestly.

He loved horses and was thinking of them.
"The boat's got to be patched up," replied Bostil, shortly.
It occurred to Lucy that her father was also thinking of Creech's thoroughbreds, but not like Holley.

She grew grave and listened intently.
There was an awkward pause.

Creech's rider, whoever he was, evidently tried to conceal his anxiety.

He flicked his boots with a quirt.