A WILD THOROUGHBRED 159 



placidity on the part of Black Diamond, they 

 thought, meant preparation for a more terrific 

 explosion than he had ever shown. This ex- 

 hibition would happen it always had hap- 

 pened the instant after the rider swung into 

 the saddle. 



Davis closed the gate, spoke a few words in an 

 undertone to the horse, and then, without saddle 

 or bridle, climbed awkwardly upon his back. 

 The expectant cowboys held their breath. Horse 

 and rider, in friendly unison, cut lightning-like 

 circles and figures. Black Diamond plainly en- 

 joyed the performance and made no attempt to 

 dislodge his rider. The cowboys were overawed, 

 sobered, and then amazed. Leaping off, Davis 

 said, "Come, Black Diamond, follow me and 

 I'll put a saddle on you." Black Diamond obeyed 

 and followed! 



The astounded cowboys did not wait to wit- 

 ness the second performance. They slipped 

 away by ones and twos to attend to their own 

 affairs ! 



