"I think perhaps after Manuel gets through with her, you'll find it
easier than you imagine," was my answer.

"I'd like to ride as well as Manuel," remarked Hal. "I wonder if all
Mexicans ride as nicely as he does."

"Many do; and there are thousands of Americans in Texas who ride equally
well, if they do not surpass him in horsemanship."

"Then I mean to learn how to do it," rejoined Hal; "and I won't be
satisfied until I do."

"You may as well commence now, on your black, Hal. She's waiting and
ready for you," remarked Ned.

"Thank you! but I believe I'll wait and see how the bay comes out. Come,
let's go and see the beauty," said Hal; and the two started for the
corral, to discuss the probable relative speed of the captives.

A couple of hours later, we saw Manuel returning; the mare trotting as
quietly as though she had been accustomed to the saddle for years. Riding
up to where we stood, he dismounted; and, handing Ned the end of the
lasso, said,--

"There, youngster, throw this over her head, and lead her to the corral.
She'll fancy you're the one who first gained the mastery over her, and
you won't have no trouble in riding her when you want to."

Ned led her to the corral, and then Hal's mare was obliged to submit to a
similar experience; and, after that, the boys, with Manuel to instruct,