The Takahe Stud

Press, 2 August 1977, Page 14

The Takahe Stud

8

By

RAPHAEL J. MACLOUGHLIN

“I can hardly see,” said Garth, as he drove through the lashing rain. “Paula certainly lost no time in getting back to .the house to tell me of Penny’s mishap. Clever girl that; taking Penny’s horse was quick thinking. Brandy knew the way home even if Paula was con- ' fused by this downpour.”

Back at the house, Paula was enjoying a warming cup of tea. “I pity Penny,” she said, between sips. “I guess the poor kid is not such a good rider after all. Why, Mrs Miles, one moment she was on her horse, and the next instant she was sailing through the air.” “She is a very lucky girl you were there and acted so quickly, Paula.

Now drink that up and change out of your clothes; they could be damp. We don’t want our best help getting a chill, do we?” replied Mrs Miles. “I’ve really conned her,” said Paula, looking after the departing Mrs Miles. “After this, I will really be in Uncle Garth’s good books. Then it’s ‘look out Penny’.”

A short time later, Penny was home and in bed recovering from a slight case of exposure; and never was there a more considerate nurse than Paula. “Penny sweet, you must keep warm,” she exclaimed, resettling the blankets of Penny’s bed for the hundredth time. “If there is anything you

want, tell me. After all, what are cousins for?” “How lucky I am,” thought Garth, “to have such a thoughtful child in the house. It is nice to know Penny has such a good friend’, a sister could not be kinder.” When the solicitous Paula had departed, Penny could not help

thinking of the bad thoughts she had had of Paula. “She is so sweet and kind, I should lie ashamed of myself. Dad was right. How could I possibly think that Paula would cause me any trouble. I will see she has a lie-in tomorrow morning.”

Dawn found Penny and her father exercising two newly-trained horses. “I am glad you let Paula sleep on,” said Garth. “She deserved it after yesterday. I mean, exercising Blackie for 'you - after she had done your work, and then

galloping back to tell me you had Iteen thrown.” “You are right, Dad,” replied Penny. “I’ll bet she is sleeping her head off.” At that very moment, in Penny’s room, Paula stood gazing out of the window. “No sign of them.

good. Now, if 1 can just find a sample of Penny’s writing, I am in business.” A little while later, the only sound in Penny’s room was the scratching of a nib on paper. To what end only Paula knew . . .