They could and they did, though Calico was a little doubtful as to whether he approved of this innovation. It was not exactly comfortable for anyone concerned and they soon gave it up. But when Chicken Little tried to make the intelligent pony dance on his hind legs, Calico waxed indignant. Instead of rising gracefully, he gave two short, plunging leaps, descending with forelegs rigid and head down, a maneuver which sent his mistress flying over his head. The turf was soft and she was up in a trice, gripping Calico's rein before he could make use of his freedom. The crowning feat of the morning was another of Chicken Little's brilliant ideas. They had tethered the ponies by their bridle reins and were letting them graze on the orchard grass while they stretched out and rested. Suddenly Jane sat up with a start and began to take off her shoes. "What on earth are you going to do now, Jane Morton?" demanded Katy sharply. "Wait and see. I'm most sure I can. I want you to lead Calico very slowly." Katy obediently followed directions. Chicken Little put her hand on the girth and vaulted on his back. She rode once around the tree tamely, then slowly got to her feet on Calico's slim back, bidding Katy steady her. She succeeded in going about three feet with this precarious footing before she lost her balance and slid harmlessly down on the pony's back. Calico did not look specially pleased at the jounce she gave him as she lit. She persevered until she could go round the tree, then insisted upon trying it alone. Katy and Gertie both remonstrated. "You'll get killed! Calico doesn't like it a bit." "I won't--I tried once all by myself last summer on old Kit, but Calico's harder, because he isn't so fat. You wouldn't hurt me, would you, Calico?" She put her arm around his neck and squeezed him hard. Calico whinnied and began to nose her for sugar. She produced two lumps, and stroked him, talking to him in whispers while Katy hooted. "A lot of good that will do." Chicken Little got up again with Katy's help, then started off slowly by herself. Calico moved carefully at a snail's pace. She made the entire circuit of the tree successfully this time. Again she went around, increasing the speed of Calico's walk. She was so jubilant she grew reckless and clucked, which was Calico's signal to canter. He responded promptly and with equal promptness, she slid down on him kerplunck. Calico laid back his ears in disapproval, and looked around inquiringly. By this time Katy had plucked up her courage and wished to try it. She was entirely willing, however, to have Chicken Little at the pony's head. Katy slipped, too, but she was lighter, and Calico was growing used to it and did not mind so much. Chicken Little patted him each time and he soon ceased to notice the bumps. Gertie preferred to be a spectator at this stunt, but the others persisted until Jane succeeded in going round the tree once with Calico pacing.