Page:Dapples of the Circus (1943).pdf/29

 a disadvantage, so he did not see the next move of the small savage from the hills.

Before any one even guessed his intent, Blackie wheeled and lashed out at Sir Wilton with both his heels, one of which struck him in the chest.

At this point in the strange scene, Mr. Pederson, who had been watching from the shed, came out with a whip and drove the fuming Blackie away, while he carefully examined Sir Wilton's chest to discover if he had been injured.

"Is he hurt?" cried the children in the same breath.

"No, I guess not," replied their father; "but I don't want that black imp kicking him in that way every day."

"Why did he do it?" asked Hans.

"He recognized a future rival among the mares. It is the way of stallions. I am sorry that he is so spiteful. I am afraid we'll have trouble if we try to keep both horses on the range when they grow up. But perhaps it will blow over."