"I guess that boy knows his business," muttered Mr. Jessup, who had
been observing him keenly. "At least he's got the pluck and will give
a good account of himself, though he never will be able to win against
a professional rope thrower."
In the meanwhile, the foreman had started to place the
contestants. Tad had the sun in his eyes, but he made no protest,
knowing that he could change his position as soon as they got the word
to go.
"Are you ready?"
"All ready," answered Tad cheerfully.
"Yes," said the cowboy shortly.
Tad's rope was now held in his right hand. Both men put spurs to
their mounts almost before the report of the revolver had died way.
The ponies leaped forward and the two opponents rode straight at each
other.
They passed at racing speed, neither making an attempt to cast.
No sooner had they cleared each other, however, than the cowboy pulled
up his horse sharply, wheeled and dashed after the Pony Rider Boy.
Tad, having foreseen the movement, had likewise stopped his mount, and
turned about. But instead of spurring on, he stood still.
The cowboy had hoped to come up behind Tad and rope him as he raced
away. He was slightly disconcerted when he noted Tad's position. But
the smiling face of the boy angered him, and the cowman's rope
squirmed through the air.
Tad ducked, allowing the lariat to shoot on over him.
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