"
In a few minutes the horse was brought out, saddled and bridled, and
Woodward, who certainly was an excellent horseman, mounted him and tried
his paces.
"Well, sir," said Murray, "how do you like him?"
"I like him well," said Woodward. "His temper is good, I know, by his
docility to the bit."
"Yes, but you haven't tried him at a ditch; follow me and I'll show you
as pretty a one as ever a horse crossed, and you may take my word it
isn't every horse could cross it. You have a good firm seat, sir; and I
know you will both do it in sportsman-like style."
Having reached the ditch, which certainly was a rasper, Woodward reined
round the animal, who crossed it like a swallow.
"Now," said Murray, "unless you wish to ride half a mile in order to get
back, you must cross it again."
This was accordingly done in admirable style, both by man and horse;
and Woodward, having ridden him back to the farmyard, dismounted, highly
satisfied with the animal's action and powers.
"Now, Mr. Murray," said he, "what's his price?"
"Fifty guineas, sir; neither more nor less.
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