human
There! exclaimed Neale.
gpt
That's the trick I taught him in the show, before I left it.
human
Oh, isn't he funny!
gpt
I'd rather have a mule than Billy Bumps for a pet!
human
Did you really make him do it, Neale?
gpt
Yes, and I can do it again! declared the lad.
human
Up, Josh! he commanded, and the mule scrambled to his feet.
gpt
Dead mule--Josh!
human
Well, what have you to say to that?
gpt
Shall I get him?
human
No, let him go, advised Mr. Howbridge.
gpt
It is very evident that he had no legal claim to this mule, and he either took him away from the circus himself, or received him from some one who did. Neale, I congratulate you.
human
Thanks. I thought I recognized old Uncle Josh, but the trick proved it. He hasn't forgotten that or me; have you, old fellow?
gpt
Pretty slick, I call that, said Hank admiringly.
human
Guess you'll have to teach my mules some trick, Neale.
gpt
It takes too long!
human
Is this our mule now?
gpt
Well, I don't know just who does own him, said Mr. Howbridge, not wanting to give a legal opinion which might be wrong.
human
But he certainly does not belong to that man,
gpt
I'd like a ride myself!
human
Oh, don't try that!
gpt
Josh wouldn't mind, put in Neale.
human
I used to ride him in the circus. Look!
gpt
Oh, do let me try!
human
Shall I put her on?
gpt
Oh, it's ever so much nicer'n Scalawag! she cried as she was lifted down.
human
Try it, Dot!
gpt
I will if I can hold my Alice-doll!
human
Sure!
gpt
I wish I dared to do it!