For he was very desirous that Master Putnam should not be in the least involved in the matter.
Master Raymond therefore had been practising up in the woods for about a week, at what the minister had failed so deplorably in, the riding of the little black mare.

At first he could absolutely do nothing with her; she would not be ridden by any male biped.

But finally he adopted a suggestion of quick-witted Mistress Putnam.

He put on a side saddle and a skirt, and rode the animal woman fashion--and all without the least difficulty.

The little mare seeming to say by her behavior, "Ah, now, that is sensible.