Reflecting on Richard Smith: Decoding Horse Play

Bert tries to get a donkey to a standing position with the aid of two others. The latter two leave, the lady taking a "sample" lesson on a trick saddle suspended from a "turnabout," under which a horse dashes, in a circle. The mule kicks Bert into the lesson, disrupting things. Later, the couple are each given a fire horse and trot merrily away. Bert mounts his beast, too, and follows. A passing farmer tosses a match behind him, and it lands in his popcorn load which he is taking to market. He spurts his flivver, but the truck behind breaks loose, rolls downhill into a barn. Smelling the smoke and fire, the fire plugs dash into the barn, knocking their riders to the ground. Bert follows, discovers that the cart is full of tempting, fresh popcorn and takes the cart to the street, doing a lively business with the kiddies. The couple amble away sadly, bowlegged, and feeling rather pained because of their strenuous sitting pastime.