pistol and swearing that he would blow out the brains of any person
who attempted to run. When the Captain's horse came near the
detachment he paused, and suffered himself to be caught by Tummas
Bullock, who held him until the owner and Mrs. Catherine came up.

Mr. Bullock looked comically grave when he saw the pair; but the
Corporal graciously saluted Mrs. Catherine, and said it was a fine
day for walking.

"La, sir, and so it is," said she, panting in a very pretty and
distressing way, "but not for RUNNING. I do protest--ha!--and vow
that I really can scarcely stand. I'm so tired of running after
that naughty naughty horse!"

"How do, Cattern?" said Thomas. "Zee, I be going a zouldiering
because thee wouldn't have me." And here Mr. Bullock grinned. Mrs.
Catherine made no sort of reply, but protested once more she should
die of running. If the truth were told, she was somewhat vexed at
the arrival of the Corporal's detachment, and had had very serious
thoughts of finding herself quite tired just as he came in sight.

A sudden thought brought a smile of bright satisfaction in the
Captain's eyes. He mounted the horse which Tummas still held.
"TIRED, Mrs Catherine," said he, "and for my sake? By heavens! you
shan't walk a step farther. No, you shall ride back with a guard of
honour! Back to the village, gentlemen!--rightabout face! Show
those fellows, Corporal, how to rightabout face. Now, my dear,
mount behind me on Snowball; he's easy as a sedan. Put your dear
little foot on the toe of my boot. There now,--up!--jump! hurrah!"