242 THE horse's rescue. 



My object in going West was the country to view ; 



Of course I wanted to see all that I traveled through, 



I was green, of course, as all new-beginners must be, 



But experience soon taught rae down in this ditch I could not SCG. 



Down in this small, stinking cabin I cannot stay. 



If I do all of my money and time will be th-rovvn away. 



The next course for me, I think, to pursue 



"Will be to go on deck, there I can have a better view. 



There in the scorching sun I seated myself on a box ; 



In a very short time my head received an awful knock. 



After my brains were Jiearly knocked out, 



" A bridge ahead!" I heard four or five shout. 



These arches are quite thick across this old stinking pool, 



A man will soon get his eyes open unless he is a fool. 



Before lie has traveled on this ditch very far 



He will soon learn these bridges to beware. 



All was new to me, I was always gaping around, 



" Lay down there, unless you want jour bones ground," 



As quick as thought I ducked my head down ; 



This was a narrow escape from being killed or drowned. 



I do not want to be drowned in stinking water like this; 



It's unsafe, I know, but I will run a little more risk. 



I have paid my fare through on this boat, 



And I am going to keep track as long as there is a plank to float. 



This is rather tough to sit here in the hot sun and heat, 



And see sore horses whipped, pounded, and beat 



This craft, too, moves at such a very slow rate, 



If I was in a hurry it would be tedious to wait. 



While seated on the stern of the boat, looking about, 

 I heard another yell, " Bridge ahead! look out!" 

 Nearly all of the boat under the bridge had passed. 

 As quick as thought, my safety was the bridge to grasp. 

 This I very quickly saw, to save my life, must be done. 

 The craft moved on ; over the center of this ditch I hung. 

 In those days I was young, resolute, strong, and spry. 

 If I lose my hold it will be wade, swim, or die. 

 Over the bridge-rail, heels over head, I went. 

 By this time I hud thought my money was foolishlj- spent. 

 If I do not keep my eyes open, and a better look-out, » 



