Page:Don Coronado through Kansas.djvu/235

222 222 A GLORIOUS PASTIME. men, Coronado and Jaramillo. But realizing the re- sponsibility of his situation, he directs Private Truxillo to select another man in whom he has conlidence to assist him in attacking the old warhorse, Jaramillo. Alonso announces he will see what he can do with the general. -;Now the test of endurance, horsemanship and dexterity with the tilt is to commence in earnest. Each man is to select his opponent, and while waiting for the signal the new champion admonishes his com- rades to sit firm in their saddles and control their mounts; to keep them steady; he himself has re- solved on a line of action, which is to rely upon the superior condition and speed, as well as the training of Babieca, to outstrip the other horses; and to out-general the men. So he orders every man to ride as far apart as possible, except the two who are to concentrate on the redoubtable captain, and he tells how he will make a dash for the commander, trustuig to his horse to keep others from reaching him, and realizing the general will not avoid him when he rec- ognizes who It is that seeks a personal bout. Alonso feels so confident of his ability to unhorse his supe- rior that he informs the men the instant he does this, he vinll turn his faithful gelding and be on the re- turn to assist them before they have fairly met the balance of the party. Again the signal is given, and now for the climax of the melee. Off rushes both sides; but soon Alonso calls on his Arabian, and now like the wimd he, Is being taken toward the object of his ambitios. Bat Coronado divining the purpose of the jrouag soldier J Is not to be outdone, and he also havi&e a strong, BOW>