MOBILE DIGITAL LIBRARY - SOCIETY OF YOUNG NIGERIAN ...

lithe contour, and as the mare arched her slim neck and raised her slender head under thepressure of the reins, it was so like the lifted velvet-capped toreador[159-1] crest ofConsuelo herself, that they seemed of one race."I would not that you should hold the riata," said Consuelo petulantly.I hesitated—Chu Chu looked certainly very amiable—I let go. She began to ambletowards the gate, not mincingly as before, but with a freer and fuller stride. In spite of theincongruous saddle, the young girl's seat was admirable. As they neared the gate, she casta single mischievous glance at me, jerked at the rein, and Chu Chu sprang into the road ata rapid canter. I watched them fearfully and breathlessly, until at the end of the lane I sawConsuelo rein in slightly, wheel easily, and come flying back. There was no doubt aboutit; the horse was under perfect control. Her second subjugation was complete and final!Overjoyed and bewildered, I overwhelmed them with congratulations; Enriquez aloneretaining the usual brotherly attitude of criticism and a superior toleration of a lover'senthusiasm. I ventured to hint to Consuelo (in what I believed was a safe whisper) thatChu Chu only showed my own feelings towards her. "Without doubt," respondedEnriquez gravely. "She have of herself assist you to climb to the tree to pull to yourselfthe berry for my sister." But I felt Consuelo's little hand return my pressure, and I forgaveand even pitied him.