full-sized horse through them. It takes oxen in such going. They're
slow; but they're strong and sure-footed, too. And they can go where
horses couldn't do anything but flounder and probably cut themselves
with their own feet. That's why we always use Bright and Broad to gather
sap in the sugar-bush."

"I'll put Twinkleheels in the barn again," said Johnnie. "Then I'll come
back on foot and help you."

So he rode Twinkleheels back and hitched him in his stall once more.

Old Ebenezer woke up as Twinkleheels pattered over the barn floor.

"What!" cried the old horse. "Back again so soon? Did you race with
Bright and Broad?"

"The snow's too deep for a good race," Twinkleheels told him.

"Bright and Broad don't mind the snow much, do they?" Ebenezer asked.

"Oh, no!" Twinkleheels answered. "They're getting on slowly, up the
road. They take their time, of course."

"Couldn't they beat you to the crossroads if you raced with them
to-day?"

"Well--yes!" Twinkleheels admitted. And he gave Ebenezer a sharp look.
"Who's been talking with you?" he demanded.

"Nobody!" said Ebenezer. "I've been dozing here all the morning."