" The pastor
lowered his arm, but kept his threatening eyes on the deacon's
face.
"Where's Poll?" asked Jim.
"In there! Douglas pointed toward the main tent without turning
his head. He was still glaring at the deacon, and breathing
hard.
"What?" cried Jim, in alarm. He faced about and saw Eloise. He
guessed the truth. A few quick strides brought him to the
entrance curtains. He threw them back and looked into the ring.
"My God! Why don't Barker stop her?"
"What is it?" called Douglas. He forgot the deacon in his terror
at Jim's behaviour, and Strong was able to slip away, unnoticed.
"She's goin' ter ride! She's goin' ter ride Barbarian!"
Douglas crossed to his side and looked.
Polly was springing onto the back of Barbarian. He was a poorly
trained horse, used by the other girl for more showy, but less
dangerous feats than Polly's.
"She's goin' through her regular turn with him, she's tryin' ter
break her neck," said Jim. "She wants ter do it. It's your
fault!" he cried, turning upon Douglas with bloodshot eyes. He
was half insane, he cared little whom he wounded.
"Why can't we stop her?" cried Douglas, unable to endure the
strain. He took one step inside the entrance.
"No, no; not that!" Jim dragged him back roughly.
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