奇速英语

A horse fair was an interesting place. Many people went there to sell horses. You could see many kinds of young and strong horses. There were also poor and thin horses and they were worn out because of hard work.

One day, the seller took me there. He wanted to sell me at a high price. I didn’t know if I would be lucky enough to meet a master who would treat me well.

Then a man with a gentle voice came to us. He wanted to buy me at a low price, but the seller refused.

Shortly after, a tall man with a very loud voice came. He walked around me and I was afraid he would buy me. Luckily, he walked away.

After a few minutes, the man with a gentle voice came back. I was very happy to see him again.

“I’ll give twenty-four pounds. Can you sell the horse to me?” he said.

“OK! Take it,” said the seller. “He’s a quality one and if you want him for work, he’s a good choice.”

Half an hour later, we left for the new home, along country roads, until we came to the city. My new home was in a narrow street. On one side of the street, there were some small, old houses. On the other, there were some stables (马厩).

We stopped in front of a house. My new master whistled (吹口哨). The door opened. A young woman, a little girl and a boy, came out. They all looked at me.

“Is he gentle, Father?” the girl asked.

“Yes, Dolly, as gentle as a cat. You can touch him.”

She touched my shoulder, whispering sweetly, “Welcome, my new friend.” The gentle touch and soft voice comforted me so much! They led me into a comfortable, clean stable, with plenty of food. After a meal, I lay down, thinking “I’m going to be very happy here.”

— Adapted from The Black Beauty