Some of the attendees gathered around Mr. Christensen. Two of the men grabbed him by his arms to lift him to his feet. A small group of them used a couple of hats, to beat off some of the dust and dirt that covered his clothes.
Tears flowed down the old man's face as he watched the dust trail left by the carriage.
People covered their mouths, shocked over the outrageous scene. Someone screamed out, "Get the constables!"
Matilda rushed the two steps to Hugh. She grabbed him by his jacket. "Come help me on a horse now," she growled.
"All right, Matilda. Please calm down. You know I hate riding bareback."
Matilda ran toward Benjamin at the carriage, catching him just in time. She screamed at him, “Do not hitch those horses!”
Benjamin raised both eyebrows. "So you are doing this?" He moved out of the way.
"Stop being a fool, help me mount up," Matilda snarled.