Page:Amusing stories of animals.pdf/8

 caught the horse with his horns under the flank, and nearly brought him and his rider to the ground. The horse seemed not at all fond of the sport, and kept his distance for some time, till at last the picador, watching the opportunity, struck a second and third and fourth arrow into his neck. The bull again pursued him, but was attracted by flags and scarfs; he vented his fury on them for some time, and pawed the ground with rage. When well exhausted by similar attacks, and chasing the horse round the arena, one of the men at arms tnrnedturned [sic] out to the middle of the arena to catch him by the horns. This is an attempt of great danger, for if the forcador misses his aim the bull is certain to overturn him—as was the case in this instance. The forcader stood with open arms daring him to the contest, and he was not long in accepting the challenge. They rushed at one another, and the bull, by raising his head higher than the other had expected, struck his antagonist oh the head, and he fell apparently lifeless on the arena. Others provoked him anew, and occupied his attention till the wounded foceador was carried off by his comrades. Proud of this exploit, the infuriated animal chased them about in all directions. Darts were showered into his neck, flags were cast before him; he pawed the ground; the dust rose in volumes around the animal; and every nerve and muscle seemed suffering with agony. When allowed a moment's respite, he took up his position in the middle of the arena, beating his sides