"Them hosses is
wet."
"Look at Sarch! He's wild. He always hated Joel."
"Wal, Lucy, I reckon I ain't likin' this hyar. Look at Joel!" muttered Creech,
and he strode out to meet his son.
Lucy ran out too, and beyond him. She saw only Sage King. He saw her,
recognized her, and, whistled even while Joel was pulling him in. For once the
King showed he was glad to see Lucy. He had been having rough treatment. But
he was not winded--only hot and wet. She assured herself of that, then ran to
quiet the plunging Sarch. He came down at once, and pushed his big nose almost
into her face. She hugged his great, hot neck. He was quivering all over. Lucy
heard the other horses pounding up; she recognized Two Face's high whinny,
like a squeal; and in her delight she was about to run to them when Creech's
harsh voice arrested her. And sight of Joel's face suddenly made her weak.
"What'd you say?" demanded Creech.
"I'd a good reason to run the hosses up-hill--thet's what!" snapped Joel. He
was frothing at the mouth.
"Out with it!"
"Cordts an' Hutch!"
"What?" roared Creech, grasping the pale Joel and shaking him.
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