He learned more fully what he had discovered before, that she would have her hands full in managing the horse, and he gave him a run that covered him with foam and tested his breathing.  At four he galloped back to the station to see if the saddle had arrived, but found that even his skill and strength were not sufficient to make the animal approach the engine.  Shouting to the baggage-man to bring the expected articles to the stable, he was soon there and made another experiment.  A hostler brought him a blanket, which he strapped around his waist, and mounted again in a lady’s style.  It was at once evident that the horse had never been ridden by a woman.  He reared, kicked, and plunged around frightfully, and Graydon had to clutch the mane often to keep his seat.  Madge had speedily joined him, and looked with absorbed interest, at times laughing, and again imploring Graydon to dismount.  This he at last he did, the perspiration pouring from his face.  Resigning the trembling and wearied horse to a stable-boy, he came toward the young girl, mopping his brow and exclaiming:  “It will never do at all.  He is ugly as sin.  No woman should ride him, not even a squaw.”

“Bah, Graydon! he did not throw you, although he had you at every disadvantage.  I’m not in the least afraid.  Has the saddle come?”

“Yes; but I protest, Madge.  Here, Dr. Sommers” (who was approaching), “lay your commands on this rash girl.”

“If Dr. Sommers says I’m rash he doesn’t understand my case, and I refuse to employ him,” cried Madge.  Then she added, sweetly:  “If I break any bones, doctor, I’ll be your very humble and obedient servant.  It’s half-past four, and I’ll be ready as soon as you are, Graydon.  No backing out.  You might as well warn me against the peril of a rocking-chair;” and she went to put on her habit.

“Heaven help us!” said Graydon to the doctor.  “We’re in a scrape.  She’s so resolute that I believe she would go alone.  What would you do?  Hang it all! the people of the house have got an inkling of what’s up; some are gathering near, and the windows are full of heads.”

“Put the saddle on one of the quiet livery horses, and you ride this brute,” said the doctor.

“You don’t know her.  She wouldn’t stand that at all.”

“Then give her her head.  After yesterday I believe she can do what she undertakes.  You have tired the horse out pretty thoroughly, and I guess she’ll manage him.”

Leaving orders to have Madge’s horse sponged off and dried, and the best animal in the stable prepared for himself, he said, “Well then, doctor, be on hand to repair damages,” and went to his room to change his dress.

The doctor did more.  He saw that Madge’s horse was saddled carefully, meanwhile admiring the beautiful equipment that Graydon had ordered.  He also insured that Graydon had a good mount.

When at last the young man tapped at Madge’s door she came out looking most beautiful in her close-fitting habit and low beaver, with its drooping feather.  Mary followed her, protesting and half crying, and Mr. Muir looked very grave.