A Bit of Water. 47 



head, and you go into the air Hke a swallow. 

 Just a fraction of a second — how much longer it 

 seems ! — and we land cleverly, well together, and 

 in three strides more you have fallen into a jog 

 again. And now you look back, lest, perchance, 

 the lump of sugar or Seckel pear which used to 

 reward you when you were learning your lesson 

 should be forthcoming now. But no, Patroclus, 

 my good word and a kindly pat for your docility 

 and strength must be your meed to-day. Canter 

 along on the soft turf till we come to the little 

 brook. We will call it a brook, and think of it 

 as a big one, though it is barely eight feet wide. 

 But never mind. We can jump thrice its width 

 just as well as across it. Remember, Patroclus, 

 water requires speed and well-set purpose, as 

 height does clean discretion. At it, my boy ! 

 Take your own stride. There 's lots of room this 

 side and more on the other bank. 



" Harden your heart, and catch hold of the bridle, 

 Steady him ! Rouse him ! Over he goes ! " 



In the air again ; this time it seems like a minute 

 almost. There, Patroclus, if it had been twenty 

 feet of water, you would not have known the 

 odds. Now for the road and company. 



