Page:Old ninety-nine's cave.djvu/202

 They were here joined by Elsie, who threw her arms around Clicker's neck, kissing and petting him; then, turning to Jack, she said,—"Is he not superb?"

"The most magnificent horse I ever saw, but I should never take him for a lady's horse."

Elsie laughed as she said,—"Clicker is a gallant. Why, children climb up his legs while he looks approvingly on, and with a woman on his back he is simply a lamb. Just mount him if you are a fearless rider and he'll behave accordingly."

At first, they flatly refused all offers; but Jack's offer of seventy-five dollars proved too tempting and the bargain was closed, Mrs. Kurtz adding the saddle that had belonged to Elsie's uncle.

They would receive no pay for Jack's accommodation, evidently considering the obligation on their side. Western hospitality is noted for its breadth, but never before had Jack appreciated the full meaning of the word and he was greatly affected by the honest simplicity of these Germans.