The turn is slipped from
the post, and the noose is slackened and pulled like a bridle
over the animal's head, to be fastened curbwise to his under jaw.
Stunned and choked, the horse fights for breath, giving Bud time
to hobble his front feet and bridle it. Bud jumps aside as the
bronco struggles to his feet. But every move of the beast to
free itself results in a fall.
Meantime the hind foot has been noosed and fastened to the one in
front. Bud has cross-hobbled the horse, preparing it for the
saddle and the second lesson. Holding the pony by the reins and
rope, Bud, after many failures, throws a saddle-blanket across
its back. With one hand he must also toss a forty-pound saddle
into place. Every move Bud makes is fought by the bronco, every
touch of blanket resented. With his free hand, Bud must now slip
the latigo strap through the cinch-ring. Dodging, twisting,
struggling, covered with sweat, the horse foils Bud's quick
movements. Finally he succeeds, and with one tight jerk the
saddle is in place.
No time to think is given the beast. Fresno and Show Low remove
the hobbles, but Bud is twisting an ear to distract its
attention. This new torture must be met with a new defense, and
the horse is so dazed that it stands still to puzzle out the
problem.
This is what Bud has been waiting for. With the agility of a
cat, he swings himself into the saddle. The pony arches its back
like a bow-string, every muscle taut.
Bud jerks the reins.
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