Nearly twelve-years-old, Don, a ranch child, eagerly anticipates the gift of a thoroughbred horse. His compassion for a weather beaten mule throws his dream into jeopardy. But loyalty is finally rewarded both for Don and the mule when the boy's life is saved by the affectionate animal. Illustrated by Paul Lantz this story combines a sentimental enthusiasm for animals with realistic detail of ranch life. Young readers should respond to the three dollar mule and the wistful predicament.