Another plunge or flounder, and horse and rider would go down together.
For a moment he held his breath and watched.

Then, as the beast resisting its rider's efforts backed again, he sprang forward and seized the bridle.
"Get your spurs in! Shove him forward for your life," he said.
There was a momentary struggle on the slippery planking, and, almost as its hind hoofs overhung the edge, Winston dragged the horse away.
Courthorne swung himself out of the saddle, left the farmer the bridle, and glanced behind him at the gap.

Then he turned, and the two men looked at each other steadily.

Their faces were a trifle paler than usual.
"You saw it ?" asked Courthorne.
"Yes, but not until you backed the beast and he commenced plunging." "He plunged once or twice before you caught the bridle." "Yes," said Winston quietly.
Courthorne laughed.

"You are a curious man.