because in possession of the reins.

A wind from the river swept through the belt of gum trees on the
Crown lands, and sent the young red blood leaping through their
veins; it played havoc with Judy's curls, and dyed her brown
cheeks a warm red; it made the General kick and laugh and grow
restive, and caused Pip to stick his hat on the back of his head
and whistle joyously.

Until town was reached, when they were forced to yield
somewhat to the claims of conventionality. On the way to
Paddington a gentleman on horseback slackened pace a little.
Pip took off his hat with a flourish, and Judy gave a frank,
pleased smile, for it was a certain old Colonel they had known
for years, and had cause to remember his good-humour and
liberality.

"Well, my little maid--well, Philip, lad," he said, smiling
genially, while his horse danced round the dogcart--"and the
General too--where are you all off to?"

"The Barracks--I'm taking something up for the governor," Pip
answered, Judy was watching the plunging horse with admiring eyes.
"And then we're going back home."

The old gentleman managed, in spite of the horse's tricks, to
slip his hand in his pocket. "Here's something to make yourselves
ill with on the way," he said, handing them two half-crowns; "but
don't send me the doctor's bill."