to the door to see us off.

"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.

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 a half-dozen. The man
might as well have beaten his wagon, for all his end was gained.

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 forefeet more firmly, and at a
sharper angle with the ground. The impatient boy now struck the pony
on the side of his head with his clenched hand, and jerked cruelly
at his bridle. It availed nothing, however; Dick was not to be
wrought upon by any such arguments.

"Don't do so, John!" I turned my head as the maiden's sweet voice
reached my ear. She was passing through the gate into the road, and,
in the next moment, had taken hold of the lad and drawn him away
from the animal. No strength was exerted in this; she took hold of
his arm, and he obeyed her wish as readily as if he had no thought