Midnight
Spurs ring , shouting , entreating , the two lads urged their sturdy mounts toward the goal , and the pintos answered gamely with all that they had . Over knolls and washes , across arroyos and gullies they flew , sure-footed and eager , neck and neck , while behind them , drawing nearer and nearer , came the black , with body low , head outstretched and limbs that moved apparently with the timed regularity and driving power of a locomotive 's piston rod . As she passed them , Kitty shouted a merry `` Come on ! '' which they answered with redoubled exertion and another yell of hearty boyish admiration for the victorious Midnight and his beautiful rider . `` Doggone that black streak ! '' exclaimed Jimmy , his eyes dancing with fun as they pulled up at the corral gate . `` He opens and shuts like a blamed ol' jack rabbit , '' commented Conny .