"It is because it is all so fresh, I suppose.
Yes, I do: my foot might hang in the stirrup and the horse gallop away with me, kicking me every time he strode." "When I am holding him?
The stirrups, then: take your feet out." "Out of the stirrups, father?
Is it safe to do so ?" "You were alarmed lest your foot should hang in one.

Quick! out with them.

That's right: now draw them up, cross the leathers, and let the irons hang over on each side.

Now how do you feel ?" "As if I must go off on one side or the other, father.

The saddle is so dreadfully slippery." "Take tight hold of it, then, with your knees, and keep your balance.
That's not right: I said take hold with your knees, not the calves of your legs." "That way, father ?" "Yes, that's better.