THE DESERT AND THE ROSE 143 



tions of the harness may not precipitate panic — 

 ceases to excite even curiosity. One ironclad rule 

 prevails on the ranch : the colt is never to be struck 

 or scared, but neither is he to be given his head. 

 Discipline is maintained. 



"How do you manage to raise such bold colts?" 

 a prospective purchaser inquired of me one day, 

 after driving one of mine through crowded city 

 streets for the first time in its experience, and that 

 without any emotion on the part of the youngster 

 beyond extreme inquisitiveness. 



To which I replied in my heart, but not aloud. 

 Where would have been the use? 



The next step is to make the colt bridlewise. By 

 dint of coaxing and determination the bit is finally 

 inserted. Once safely in place this new toy seems 

 to afford amusement, judging by the gusto with 

 which it is chewed. Then picking up the reins he 

 is induced to walk upon his way, I going ahead at 

 first to encourage his progress. Gradually he learns 

 to twist and turn according to the pull upon the bit. 

 Now he is ready for the crowning test. The cart, 

 warranted to make no agitating noises, is brought 

 out. We go to work very quietly, and soon every- 

 one is prepared for the real crisis; for I own that 

 the first revolution of the wheels never fails to send 

 my heart into my mouth, though nothing startling 

 ever occurred. The boy walks behind holding the 

 reins firmly and I walk ahead. The colt takes a few 

 dubious steps, looking back at the odd contraption 

 he appears to be dragging but soon satisfied that 

 whatever it is it must be all right, as his friends are 



