bilant over the victory, and Jack was the object of loud
congratulations; while Lion and Snowfoot formed the centre of the little
group.

"Much obliged to you, Wad," said Jack, as they re-exchanged coats and
hats. "Thanks to you, I've got my horse again. Thanks to all of you.
Boys, I was perfectly astonished at your father's pluck!" And he could
not help thinking what a really noble specimen of a man Betterson might
have made, if he had not been standing on his dignity and waiting for
legacies all his life.

"Not many folks know what sort of a man father is," replied Rufe.
"Peakslow would have found out, if he had drawn a bead on you. How quick
he stopped, and changed countenance! He can govern his temper when he
finds he must; and he can cringe and crawl when he sees it's for his
interest. Think of his asking you at last,--after you had got your horse
in spite of him, and at the risk of your life,--think of his begging you
to give him a dollar!"

Jack said, "Look at that galled spot on Snowfoot's neck! Peakslow has
got all he could out of him the past week,--kept him low and worked him
hard in a cruel collar. Never mind, old Snowfoot! better times have come
now, for both of us. Here, Link, you are lame; want a ride?"

Link did want a ride, of course,--who ever saw a boy that didn't? Jack
took hold of his foot and helped him mount upon Snowfoot's back; then
called to Chokie, who was getting up from his last tumble (with loud
lamentations), a few yards off.

"Here, Chokie; don't cry; fun isn't all over yet; you can ride too."
Tossing the urchin up, Jack set him behind Link. "Hold on now, Chokie;
hug brother tight!"

[Illustration: RETURNING IN TRIUMPH.]

Both chubby arms reaching half around Link's waist, one chubby cheek
pressed close to Link's suspender, and two chubby legs sticking out on
Snowfoot's back, Chokie forgot his griefs, and, with the tear-streaks
still wet on his cheeks, enjoyed the fearful pleasure of the ride.

Vinnie's bright face watched from the door, the delighted Lill clapped
her hands, and Mrs. Betterson and Cecie looked eagerly from the window,
as the little procession approached the house,--Lion walking sedately
before, then Link and Chokie riding the lost horse, and Jack and Rufe
and Wad following with the prairie chickens.

More congratulations. Then Lord Betterson came from the field with
another bird. Then Snowfoot was saddled, and Jack, with dog and gun, and
two of the prairie chic