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McGuffey's Fifth Eclectic Reader by William Holmes McGuffey
page 62 of 432 (14%)

18. Many times more during that evening, did I observe the magic power of
that hand and voice--the one gentle yet potent as the other. On the next
morning, breakfast being over, I was preparing to take my departure when
my host informed me that if I would wait for half an hour he would give me
a ride in his wagon to G--, as business required him to go there. I was
very well pleased to accept of the invitation.

19. In due time, the farmer's wagon was driven into the road before the
house, and I was invited to get in. I noticed the horse as a rough-looking
Canadian pony, with a certain air of stubborn endurance. As the farmer
took his seat by my side, the family came to the door to see us off.

20. "Dick!" said the farmer in a peremptory voice, giving the rein a quick
jerk as he spoke. But Dick moved not a step. "Dick! you vagabond! get up."
And the farmer's whip cracked sharply by the pony's ear.

21. It availed not, however, this second appeal. Dick stood firmly
disobedient. Next the whip was brought down upon him with an impatient
hand; but the pony only reared up a little. Fast and sharp the strokes
were next dealt to the number of half a dozen. The man might as well have
beaten the wagon, for all his end was gained.

22. A stout lad now came out into the road, and, catching Dick by the
bridle, jerked him forward, using, at the same time, the customary
language on such occasions, but Dick met this new ally with increased
stubbornness, planting his fore feet more firmly and at a sharper angle
with the ground.

23. The impatient boy now struck the pony on the side of the head with his
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