n-shod hoofs in maddened flight.
Suddenly through the open main entrance dashed Gamechick without a
rider.

A riderless horse fleeing in terror, is one of the most tragic sights
on earth. The horse came pounding at breakneck speed, blinded in his
fright, as runaway horses are, but instinctively taking the straight
path across the plaza. It was as if the frantic hoof-beats awakened
the whole post. Soldiers ran out and officers stepped from their
comfortable quarters, while the officers' club emptied itself into the
street. The horse was recognized in a moment as Colonel Fortescue's
mount, and he made straight for the commandant's house. It was not
necessary for the trooper to seize the reins hanging loose on
Gamechick's neck. He came to a sudden halt, his sides heaving as if
they would burst, and he was dripping wet as if he had been in a river.
He stood, quivering, his sensitive ears cocking and uncocking wildly.

Mrs. Fortescue's face grew pale, but she said to McGillicuddy calmly:

"Some accident has happened to Colonel Fortescue. Send word at once to
Major Harlow and to my son."

Major Harlow, next in command, was on the spot almost as Mrs. Fortescue
spoke.

"It is all right, Mrs. Fortescue," said Major Harlow, cheerfully. "The
Colonel probably dismounted and the horse got away. We will find him
in a little while."

"Yes," replied Mrs. Fortescue, "and Anita and I will ride with you."

Anita looked with triumphant eyes at her mother.

"I felt that we must be on horseback," she said, "I didn't understand
why a few minutes ago, but now I know why."

A messenger was sent for Beverley Fortescue, but he was not to be
found. Some one in the group of officers remembered having seen him
riding off with Sally Harlow. Major Harlow did not attempt to keep up
with his daughter's cavaliers.

"We'll find the Colonel all right," said Major Harlow, confidently,
"the horse will show us the way."

Major Harlow rode in front with Sergeant McGillicuddy, who led
Gamechick, his head hanging down, looking the picture of shame but
carefully retracing his steps. Behind them rode Mrs. Fortescue and
Anita, and then came a small escort. Gamechick, walking wearily in
advance over the frozen snow, suddenly lifted his head and gave a loud
whinnying of joy, and at the same moment his tired legs seemed to gain
new strength, and he started off in a brisk trot.

"He has caught the trail, Mrs. Fortescue," called back Major Ha