How it was that he did not go down between, I
can't guess; the beast gave a violent start, as well it might, jerked
the reins loose, and set off full gallop. Seeing the child clinging
on like a young panther, he dashed across the meadow, to cut him off
at the turn of the river; and it was a great feat of swiftness, I
assure you, to run so lightly through those marshy meadows, so as to
get the start of the runaway; then he crept up under cover of the
hedge, so as not to startle the horse, and had hold of the bridle,
just as he paused before leaping the gate! He said he could hardly
believe his eyes when he saw the urchin safe, and looking more
excited than terrified.'
'Yes, he was exceedingly struck with Maurice's spirit,' said Mr.
Kendal, who, when the fright and anger were over, could begin to be
proud of the exploit.
'They fraternized at once,' said Mr. Ferrars. 'Maurice imparted that
his name was Maurice Ferrars Kendal, and Ulick, in all good faith and
Irish simplicity, discovered that they were cousins!'
'Oh! Edmund, he must come to the christening dinner!'
'Mind,' said Maurice, 'you, know he is not even my wife's cousin;
only nephew to her second cousin's husband.'
'For shame, Maurice, cousin is that cousinly does!'
'Very well, only don't tell the aunts that Winifred saddled all the
O'Mores upon you.'
'Not an O'More but should be welcome for his sake!'
'Nor an Irishman,' said Mr.
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