[The discretion was appreciated, because Mattie's cheeks were absolutely burning by the time she righted herself on the mount and took hold of the reins. It was an effort to keep herself composed while Mary climbed up behind her-- and, once they were both settled...]

Yeah, we'll get going.

[She said, and gently nudged the bird with her feet.

Nothing. Just a bird staring balefully at her, as if she were a punk nuisance that didn't deserve the time of day.]

Come on... don't give me that look. You're not the one I took on an adventure, so no complaints from you.