Although Mules can be found to be a hearty work critters... Mules also are well known to have a significant stubborn streak... as well as a very strong self-preservation instinct.... Meaning something go "boom".... mule say "see ya"... and frequently would do whatever it takes to lighten the load on it, or attached to it, buck, rear, rake you off on a tree... so it could possibly make better time in its dash... I guess its why teamsters usually got extra pay for that duty wrestling with mules all day long... If you can keep them in line and under control.. they will pull all day long... but was frequently a challenge...

To handle the weight of two men the horse or mule would need to be a draft or draft breed cross. Unfortunately those were also highly sought after for the artillery and wagon trains as well... It was an interesting concept... but didnt work very well... and quickly abandoned for any better option that could be found...

Frederick