AN EXCHANGE OF PROPERTY. 283 



Spring — and over fell White-stockings, sending his 

 rider rolling on the road before him. 



Dick rode up to Mr. Major. The bullet had 

 taken effect in the hock, and the panting animal 

 lay piteously eyeing his flanks, Mr. Major was 

 on the ground slightly bruised, but by no means 

 seriously hurt, and Dick, keeping an eye on him, 

 quickly reloaded his pistols. 



The prostrate gentleman had now recovered his 

 feet, and was about, in his confusion, to make his 

 way to the wounded horse. This, however, Dick 

 prevented, for he doubted not that another pistol 

 remained in the holster. 



" Another yard nearer, and I'll shoot you ! " said 

 he. 



The half-stunned and smarting gentleman stared 

 at him stupidly. 



" Come, quick, hand out — look alive ! Your watch 

 I'll take first, that's handiest ; besides, mine don't go 

 just now, but I'm sure yours will." 



Mr. Major complied sulkily — he could not relish 

 the jest — and cast a look at the wounded horse. 



" Confound it 1 " muttered he, " I wouldn't mind 

 my purse, but to lose my White-stockings. Fellow," 

 said he, turning angrily to Turpin, who, with one 

 hand extended and the other presenting the muzzle 

 of the "little persuader" at his head, sat waiting the 

 delivery of the gold, "you've done more mischief than 

 you can mend. I'd gladly give five purses such as 

 this to have saved his life." 



" I've no time to argue," said Dick, looking warily 

 along the road ; " though, as we seem pretty much by 

 ourselves, I'll tell you that I'd the choice between you 

 and your horse, and I seldom miss. Thank my 



