Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/202

 small horse fighting for their lives, but he finally saw that it was inevitable.

So he went with them to the lower deck and gave them his blessing.

"Don't try to ride him," said Mr. Williams. "It will make him too low in the water. Just lie in the water by his side, with your arm over his neck. You had better cling to his mane, so that you will not get separated from him.

"He is a brave little horse. He will give his last ounce of strength for you. I am sure you will reach the shore all right. When you get there, look for the others and all keep together. God only knows what sort of country it is yonder."

Mr. Williams stooped down and kissed the boy and gave him a big hug.

Then Freckles led Sir Wilton close to the rail, and, with a slap on his side, jumped him over. The little horse had barely struck the water when his young rider caught hold of his mane with a grip that nothing but death could break.