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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Ranchers
+       or Fighting the Sioux
+
+Author: Edward S. Ellis
+
+Release Date: March 15, 2009 [EBook #28331]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE YOUNG RANCHERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Internet Archive)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                          THE YOUNG RANCHERS
+
+                        OR _FIGHTING THE SIOUX_
+
+                  "FOREST AND PRAIRIE SERIES," No. 3.
+
+                          BY EDWARD S. ELLIS
+
+          AUTHOR OF "BOY PIONEER SERIES," "DEERFOOT SERIES,"
+                        "WILDWOOD SERIES," ETC.
+
+
+PHILADELPHIA
+HENRY T. COATES & CO.
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1895,
+BY PORTER & COATES.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE DEATH OF THE FAITHFUL MESSENGER.]
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+I. DANGER AHEAD
+
+II. THE VOICELESS FRIEND
+
+III. COMPANIONS IN PERIL
+
+IV. TIM BROPHY'S DISCOVERY
+
+V. LEAVING THE RANCH
+
+VI. "TIMOTHY BROPHY, ESQ., AT YOUR SERVICE"
+
+VII. STIRRING TIMES
+
+VIII. STARCUS
+
+IX. ON THE BANK OF A STREAM
+
+X. BENT ARM AND HIS BAND
+
+XI. AT BAY
+
+XII. FACING WESTWARD
+
+XIII. IN THE FRINGE OF THE WOODS
+
+XIV. TURNED BACK
+
+XV. MISSING
+
+XVI. A THIEF OF THE NIGHT
+
+XVII. THROUGH THE WOOD
+
+XVIII. NIGHT AND MORNING
+
+XIX. A STARTLING SURPRISE
+
+XX. A RUN FOR LIFE
+
+XXI. AWAY WE GO!
+
+XXII. ON FOOT
+
+XXIII. DOWN!
+
+XXIV. THE FRIEND IN NEED
+
+XXV. THE PRAIRIE DUEL
+
+XXVI. ON THE GROUND
+
+XXVII. A GOOD SAMARITAN
+
+XXVIII. THE LONE HORSEMAN
+
+XXIX. A BREAK FOR FREEDOM
+
+XXX. COMRADES AGAIN
+
+XXXI. THE LAST HOPE
+
+XXXII. AWAY! AWAY!
+
+XXXIII. BREAD CAST UPON THE WATERS
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+THE DEATH OF THE FAITHFUL MESSENGER.
+
+A HOT PURSUIT.
+
+TIM'S FORTUNATE SHOT.
+
+THE DEATH OF THE INDIAN.
+
+
+
+
+THE YOUNG RANCHERS;
+
+OR,
+
+FIGHTING THE SIOUX.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+DANGER AHEAD.
+
+
+There was snow in the air. Warren Starr had felt it ever since meridian,
+though not a flake had fallen, and the storm might be delayed for hours
+yet to come. There was no mistaking the dull leaden sky, the chill in
+the atmosphere, and that dark, increasing gloom which overspreads the
+heavens at such times.
+
+Young Warren was a fine specimen of the young hunter, though he had not
+yet passed his nineteenth year. His home was in South Dakota, and he was
+now on his return from Fort Meade, at the eastern foot of the Black
+Hills, and had fully twenty miles to travel, though the sun was low in
+the horizon, as he well knew, even if it was veiled by the snow vapor.
+
+His father's ranch lay to the north of the Big Cheyenne, and the son was
+familiar with every foot of the ground, having traversed it many a time,
+not only on his visits to the fort, but in the numerous hunting
+excursions of which he was so fond. He could have made the journey by
+night, when no moon was in the sky, had there been need of doing so, but
+he decided that it was better to give his pony the rest he required, and
+to push on at an early hour the next morning. He had eaten nothing since
+the noon halt, and his youth and vigor gave him a powerful appetite, but
+he had learned long before that one of the first requisites of the
+hunter is to learn to endure cold, heat, hunger, and hardship
+unmurmuringly.
+
+But the youth was in so uneasy a mental state that he rode slowly for
+nearly an hour, debating with himself whether to draw rein or push on.
+The rumors of trouble among the Sioux were confirmed by his visit to
+Fort Meade. A spirit of unrest had prevailed for a long time, caused by
+the machinations of that marplot, Sitting Bull, the harangues of
+medicine men who proclaimed the coming Messiah, the ghost dances, the
+eagerness of the young bucks to take the warpath, and the universal
+belief that the last opportunity for the red men to turn back the
+advance of the Caucasian race was to be made soon or never.
+
+The fact that our Government had its military posts scattered through
+the disaffected country, that the Indian reservations were comparatively
+well governed, that the officers were men whose valor and skill had been
+proven times without number, and that these authorities were keeping
+close watch on the growing disaffection produced a quieting effect in
+many quarters, though the best informed men foresaw the impending storm.
+That which troubled Warren Starr on his lonely ride northward was the
+fact that on that ranch, twenty miles away, dwelt his father, mother,
+and little sister, known by the pet name of Dot. His father had two
+assistants in the care of the ranch, Jared Plummer, a man in middle
+life, and Tim Brophy, a lusty young Irishman, about the same age as
+Warren. But the ranch was not fitted to withstand an attack from any of
+the bands through the country. Those turbulent bucks were the very ones
+to assail his home with the fury of a cyclone, and if they did, Heaven
+help the loved ones there, even though the three men were well provided
+with arms and ammunition.
+
+The commandant of Fort Meade suggested to Warren that he urge his people
+to come into the fort without delay. Such a suggestion, coming from the
+officer, meant a good deal.
+
+That which caused the youth to decide to wait until morning was the
+fatigue of his animal, and the more important fact that it was best not
+only to arrive at the ranch in the daytime, but to ride through several
+miles of the surrounding country when the chance to use his eyes was at
+the best. If hostiles were in the section, he might pass within a
+hundred yards of them in the darkness without discovering it, but it was
+impossible to do so when the sun was in the sky.
+
+He was now riding across an open plain directly toward a small branch of
+the Big Cheyenne, beyond which lay his home. He could already detect the
+fringe of timber that lined both sides of the winding stream, while to
+the right rose a rocky ridge several hundred feet in height, and a mile
+or two distant appeared a similar range on the left.
+
+The well-marked trail which the lad was following passed between these
+elevations; that on the right first presenting itself and diverging so
+far to the east, just before the other ridge was reached, that it may be
+said it disappeared, leaving the other to succeed it.
+
+Despite the long ride and the fatigue of himself as well as his animal,
+young Starr was on the alert. He was in a dangerous country, and a
+little negligence on his part was liable to prove fatal.
+
+"If there is a lot of Sioux watching this trail for parties going either
+way, this is the spot," he reflected, grasping his Winchester, lying
+across his saddle, a little more firmly. "I have met them here more than
+once, and, though they claimed to be friendly, I was always uneasy, for
+it is hard for an Indian to resist the temptation to hurt a white man
+when it looks safe to do so."
+
+Nothing could have exceeded the caution of the youth. The trail showed
+so plainly that his pony kept to it without any guidance on his part,
+and the reins lay loose on his neck. Every minute or two the rider
+glanced furtively behind him to make sure no treacherous enemy was
+stealing upon him unawares; and then, after a hasty look to the right
+and left, he scanned the rocky ridge on his right, peering forward the
+next moment at the one farther off on his left.
+
+He was searching for that which he did not want to find--signs of red
+men. He knew a good deal of their system of telegraphy, and half
+suspected that some keen-eyed Sioux was crouching behind the rocks of
+the ridge, awaiting the moment to signal his approach to his confederate
+farther away.
+
+It might have seemed possible to some to flank the danger by turning far
+to the right or left, but that would have involved a long detour and
+delay in arriving home. At the same time, if any warriors were on the
+watch, they could easily checkmate him by accommodating their movements
+to his, and continually heading him off, whichever direction he took. He
+had considered all these contingencies, and felt no hesitation in
+pressing straight forward, despite the apparent peril involved in doing
+so.
+
+Suddenly Jack pricked his ears and raised his head, emitting at the same
+time a slight whiff through his nostrils.
+
+No words could have said more plainly: "Beware, master! I have
+discovered something."
+
+The rider's natural supposition was that the danger, whatever it might
+be, was on the crest of the ridge he was approaching; but, when he
+shaded his eyes and peered forward, he was unable to detect anything at
+all. Enough light remained in the sky for him to use his excellent eyes
+to the best advantage, but nothing rewarded the scrutiny.
+
+Jack continued advancing, though his gait was now a slow walk, as if he
+expected his master to halt altogether; but the latter acted like the
+skilful railway engineer, who, seeing the danger signal ahead, continues
+creeping slowly toward it, ready to check his train on the instant it
+becomes necessary to do so. He allowed the pony to step tardily forward,
+while he strove to locate the point whence peril threatened.
+
+"What the mischief do you see, Jack?" he asked, in a half-impatient
+tone; "if I didn't know you never joked, I would believe you were trying
+some trick on me to get me to camp for the night."
+
+Once the horseman fancied he caught the faint outlines of a thin column
+of smoke climbing into the sky from the crest of the ridge, but closer
+study convinced him that he was wrong. If such a signal were kindled, it
+must be clear enough to be recognized from the farther elevation, which
+was more distant than the horseman.
+
+"I shall observe the vapor as soon as they," he thought, "for my eyes
+are as sharp--helloa! that beats the mischief!"
+
+At last Warren Starr learned what it was that had alarmed his pony.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE VOICELESS FRIEND.
+
+
+The keen eyes, instead of looking at the crest of the rocky ridge on his
+right, were now centred on the ground, where they detected a small dark
+speck swiftly approaching the horseman. At the first glance, the object
+suggested a cannon-ball rolling with great speed toward the pony, that
+was now standing still, with head erect, ears thrown forward, and the
+appearance of perplexed interest in the thing, whatever it might be.
+
+For a minute Warren Starr was unable to guess the meaning of the
+singular sight. Whatever its nature, it was evident that it was aiming
+to reach the rider with the least possible delay. The latter drew his
+Winchester around in front, so as to be ready to receive it, his first
+thought being that it was some Sioux stratagem designed to do him ill.
+
+But while he gazed, he discovered its identity; it was a dog, running as
+if its very life were at stake. The next instant young Starr perceived
+something protruding from the front part of its body, resembling the
+ornamental feather in an Indian's head-dress.
+
+"It is an arrow!" he exclaimed. "The poor creature is badly wounded, and
+is striving to reach me before he dies. By gracious, it's Bruno!" he
+added, as a closer approach enabled him to identify the creature. "He
+brings me some message."
+
+Bruno was his favorite hound, that had accompanied him on many a hunting
+excursion, and whom he loved scarcely less than Jack, his pony.
+
+It was indeed a race with death on the part of the faithful animal.
+While yet a number of rods distant, he staggered, faltered, then
+gathering his energies pressed on with the last strength he could
+summon, and with a low moan rolled languidly on his side, and looking
+upward with a human expression to his young master, said by his action:
+"I have done the best I could for you, and I am content."
+
+Young Starr was out of the saddle like a flash, and ran forward to him.
+Stooping down, he placed one arm under the head of the noble dog, and,
+leaning over, touched his lips to the velvety forehead.
+
+"My poor Bruno, they have killed you!" he murmured, with tears in his
+eyes. "I would give an arm to save you, but it is too late."
+
+He saw that the head of the arrow was sunken deep into the neck, and the
+dark coat was splashed with crimson. To attempt to withdraw the missile
+was useless. It could only deepen the agony of the animal without
+relieving him in the least. He was doomed and dying before he sank to
+the ground.
+
+Bruno turned his beautiful eyes upward to his master, emitted a low
+moan, gave a slight quiver and gasp, and was dead. No martyr ever did
+his duty more heroically.
+
+For a few moments Warren Starr yielded to his grief. He remained with
+the exquisitely formed head resting on his arm, while the tears fell
+from his eyes on the form that could never respond again to his
+caresses. Then he gently withdrew his arm and suffered the head to rest
+on the ground.
+
+"Your last act was for those you love," he murmured; "you gave your life
+for us, and no man could do more. No one shall take from me the faith
+that we shall be happy together beyond the grave. Good-by, my true and
+faithful friend."
+
+Young Starr was too experienced a scout, despite his youth, to forget in
+his grief the full significance of the sad incident. The hound had
+travelled the long distance from the ranch to this point for the purpose
+of bringing him a message. He had been discovered while on the road, and
+fired upon by the Indians, who were so near that they used bows and
+arrows to prevent the young master taking the alarm. Many missiles were
+doubtless sent after the animal, and one was fated to bring him down,
+though not until he had accomplished his errand.
+
+Warren knew where to look for the message. He unstrapped the collar,
+with its silver plate--which he would have done under any circumstance
+to keep as a remembrance of his voiceless friend--and there, carefully
+folded and secure under the band, was a piece of paper, containing
+considerable writing in lead-pencil:
+
+     DEAR WARREN:
+
+     Don't come to the ranch. It is sure death to undertake it. A party
+     of twenty and more bucks are near us. They have killed or stampeded
+     our cattle, and will attack us this evening if we remain, which we
+     shall not do. Tim discovered them this afternoon, and learned
+     enough to make sure of their intention. We shall mount our horses
+     and start for Fort Meade. We dare not use the regular trail, along
+     which I suppose you are making your way, but must be guided by
+     circumstances. I think we shall move to the westward, taking the
+     most direct route to the post, but are likely to be forced into a
+     long detour, which renders it impossible for me to give you any
+     direction by which we can meet each other.
+
+     I know that your impulse will be to try to join us before we reach
+     the fort, but it is my earnest wish that you shall not attempt it.
+     Turn about at once, while you have time, and retrace your steps. If
+     a day or two shall pass without our coming in, perhaps it may be
+     well to ask the colonel to send out a squad of cavalry to help us,
+     for it is idle to fancy we are not in great peril. It is my prayer
+     that Bruno shall intercept you in time to prevent any mishap. I
+     have instructed him precisely what he is expected to do, and he not
+     only fully understands, but, as you well know, will do it if it be
+     possible.
+
+     YOUR FATHER.
+
+"You were right," said the youth gently, looking down once more on the
+inanimate form. "Bruno did his duty, and he deserves a monument for
+having done it so well."
+
+All this time the pony stood some feet away, motionless, and apparently
+a deeply interested witness of the singular scene.
+
+He was too well trained to leave his master, who never resorted to the
+precaution of securing him by his halter.
+
+Meanwhile night was closing in. The gloom was overspreading the prairie
+so that the ridge, which had been such a cause for solicitude to the
+youth, was now dimly discernible. In a few minutes it would be swallowed
+up in the coming darkness.
+
+Resolutely forcing his sadness aside, Warren knelt down and pressed his
+ear to the ground. If horsemen were approaching he could detect it
+through the sense of hearing.
+
+Then he climbed once more into the saddle and faced the ridge, debating
+with himself what was the right course to pursue. His father had said in
+unmistakable language that he wished him to return to Fort Meade.
+Warren was a dutiful son, but he could not persuade himself that that
+was the best thing to do. To follow his parent's wishes would require
+him to look after his own safety, and to forget those whose lives were
+dearer to him than his own. To return to the fort, and secure the aid
+that he knew would be cheerfully given, would take a day or two, during
+which the crisis must come and pass with his people. Two days at the
+most would settle the question whether they were to escape or fall
+victims to the ferocity of the Sioux.
+
+"I can't do it," he said, compressing his lips and shaking his head. "I
+have never played the coward, and I'm not going to begin when my folks
+are concerned. My first duty is to find out where father, mother, and
+Dot are, and then do all I can for their safety."
+
+It was not difficult to reach this conclusion, for which no one will
+deny him credit; but it was altogether a difficult and formidable task
+for him to decide what next to do.
+
+Had his friends been following the regular trail to the fort his course
+would have been simple, since he had only to continue on until he met
+them; but his father had notified him that not only would he not take
+that route, but he could not say which one he would adopt. He inclined
+to think he would turn to the westward, leaving the path on his left,
+but the question, as he said, must be settled by circumstances.
+
+Something cold touched his hand. It was a snowflake, and he knew that in
+a short time the ground would be wrapped in a mantle of white. Once more
+he glanced in the direction of the elevation, now invisible in the
+gathering darkness. On the utmost height a point of light appeared,
+shining for a moment with the steady radiance of a fixed star.
+
+"The bucks are there," concluded Warren; "they saw me from a long way,
+and must wonder why I am delayed--ah, sure enough!"
+
+All at once the gleaming light began circling about, faster and faster,
+until it looked like a wheel of fire. Then it reversed, whirling as
+swiftly in the opposite direction, then up and down, then from side to
+side, and finally, whiff! it vanished.
+
+A grim smile lit the face of the youth, who turned his gaze toward the
+more distant ridge on his left for the answer, but if it was made, the
+state of the atmosphere prevented his seeing it. Once he fancied he
+caught the glimpse of something resembling a fire-fly, but it was only
+for an instant, and was not observed again.
+
+It was easy to read the meaning of that which first showed itself. A
+party of Indians that had evidently been watching his coming, while yet
+a long way off, now telegraphed his arrival to their confederates on the
+more distant elevation, together with the fact that the white man had
+ceased his approach and might not come any nearer.
+
+It was reasonable to believe that these same red men would not remain
+idle while the object of their wrath turned quietly about and retraced
+his steps.
+
+Only a few minutes were used in considering the question, but the time
+had not yet expired, when, to Warren's astonishment, he heard the sound
+of firing ahead. Probably eight or ten shots were discharged at quick
+but irregular intervals, and then all once more became still.
+
+A pang of apprehension passed through him at the fear that his friends,
+after all, might have attempted to reach the fort by the trail, and had
+become involved in a fight with the Sioux. Be that as it may, the fact
+was impressed on him that he was doing an imprudent thing by remaining
+in the path along which the warriors were liable to burst at any moment.
+He turned Jack to the left and rode fully a hundred yards before again
+drawing rein. It was not necessary to go this far to place himself
+beyond sight of the path, but he wished to take no unnecessary chances.
+
+By this time the snowflakes were falling fast, and it was impossible to
+see objects more than twenty feet distant. Warren checked his pony,
+holding him with his nose toward the trail, and listened.
+
+Again the intelligent animal elevated his head, pricked his ears, and
+emitted an almost noiseless neigh, as was his habit when he discovered
+the approach of strangers. His rider could discern nothing through the
+gloom, and resorted to the resource tried before, which is a common one
+among hunters and warriors. Descending from the saddle, he brushed aside
+the snow from a small spot on the ground and pressed his ear against the
+earth.
+
+This time he _did_ hear something. A horse was approaching over the
+trail on a swift gallop, and it took but a brief while for the youth to
+learn that he was coming from the direction of the ridge. Furthermore,
+there was but the single horseman; or, if there were others, they were
+so far off that no thought need be given to them.
+
+Remounting his pony, Warren held him facing the path, and prepared for
+any emergency likely to arise. He was well aware that if the stranger
+kept to the trail he would be invisible in the gloom, but he was now so
+near that from his seat young Starr plainly caught the sound of his
+horse's hoofs, growing more distinct every moment.
+
+Whoever it was that was advancing, it was evident he was doing so at
+what might be called a leisurely pace, though it was quite rapid. The
+horse was on an easy canter, such as his species can maintain for hours
+without fatigue.
+
+The youth was sitting in this posture, with never a thought of what was
+coming, when to his amazement he caught the outlines of the man and his
+steed passing at right angles to the course he had been following
+himself.
+
+"He is off the trail!" was the alarming fact which caused Warren to make
+ready to fire, for the truth was apparent that if he saw the stranger,
+the latter had the same opportunity of seeing him.
+
+To his surprise Jack uttered a neigh at the critical moment when the
+other was directly opposite. A collision now seemed certain, but the
+other kept straight on, and quickly passed from sight.
+
+Not until he had been several minutes beyond hearing did the startling
+thought come to Warren Starr:
+
+"That was a white man, and not an Indian."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+COMPANIONS IN PERIL.
+
+
+Warren Starr was impatient with himself that he had not thought of the
+stranger being a white man until it was too late to make use of the
+important fact. The sounds of firing ahead ought to have raised the
+suspicion in his mind, and the act of his pony should have confirmed it,
+for he never would have betrayed himself to one of his own species had
+he not known that he belonged to a friend.
+
+But it was a waste of time to bewail what could not be helped, and
+nothing was to be gained by staying where he was. There was no longer
+any call to push onward toward the ranch, for that was not his
+destination. He was seeking his folks.
+
+Once more the nose of Jack was turned about, and this time he was headed
+toward the northwest, his course being such that it would take him
+considerably to the west of the second rocky ridge to which allusion has
+been made. In short, Warren had now set out to do that which he would
+not have attempted but for the receipt of the message from his father.
+He was about to flank both elevations by swerving far from the direct
+course to his home.
+
+The small tributary of the Big Cheyenne, which it was necessary to ford
+in order to reach the ranch, made a sweeping curve southward, so that
+the marked change in the course he was following would take him to it,
+though at a point far removed from the regular ford.
+
+The youth was not riding blindly forward. It has been stated that he was
+familiar with the country for many miles around his home, and he was
+making for a definite point. It was on the bank of the small stream, and
+was not only deeply wooded, but abounded with rocks, bowlders,
+depressions, ravines, and wild, dangerous places, where it was certain
+death for a person to try to make his way in the darkness, unless he
+knew every foot of the locality.
+
+This was the locality for which young Starr was aiming. Here he was
+confident of finding security against the Sioux, though they might be
+near at hand. He knew just where to go, for he had hunted through it
+many times with his friend Tim Brophy, for whose company he longed more
+than ever before.
+
+Jack wanted food, but it could not be had. He did not need it, however,
+to the extent of suffering. At the noon halt, when his master sat on the
+ground by a spring of cold water to eat his lunch, the pony had cropped
+the succulent grass that grew around, and he could stand it quite well
+until the morrow. The animal needed rest and shelter more than anything
+else, and it was that which his young master meant he should have.
+
+As if he understood it all, the horse of his own accord struck into a
+brisk gallop, which rendered unnecessary any other protection from the
+cold. The snow was still falling, but the temperature was not low, and
+there was not enough on the ground to interfere with the travelling of
+the animal, who maintained his pace until the abrupt appearance of the
+rocky section, with its trees and bowlders, compelled him to drop to a
+slow walk, with his nose thrust forward, as if to scent every step of
+the way, like an elephant crossing a doubtful bridge.
+
+"Here we are, my boy!" called out Warren, "and you couldn't have come
+more truly if the sun had been shining."
+
+It certainly was a marvellous piece of woodcraft, if such it may be
+called, on the part of the pony, that he should have struck the spot so
+accurately, and yet it is scarcely less marvellous that, had he needed
+direction, his master was competent to give it, despite the darkness and
+the snow.
+
+Warren left the saddle for the last time. With no stars or moon in the
+sky, and with the snow falling faster than ever, it would seem that
+one's eyes were of little use, but they served their purpose well in the
+present instance. Paying no heed to the animal, he bent over, groping
+his way among the rocks, which began abruptly on the edge of the
+prairie, and had not spent five minutes thus when he came upon that for
+which he was looking--an opening between a mass of bowlders, along which
+a person or animal could make his way with little difficulty.
+
+"Here we are, Jack, my boy! Come on; we'll soon reach our house."
+
+With more thrusting forward of the head, and sniffing of the air, the
+pony obeyed, though it is hardly to be supposed that he understood all
+that was said to him.
+
+On the previous winter, when Warren Starr and Tim Brophy were hunting in
+this section, they found game so abundant that they decided to spend two
+or three days in the neighborhood. Accordingly they put up a shelter
+which afforded good protection at night, and would do the same against
+any storm not too violent. A rock a dozen feet in length formed a
+half-circle, the upper edge projecting over to the extent of a yard or
+more. All that was required was to lean a number of branches against
+this, the upper parts supported by the ledge, while the lower rested on
+the ground, some eight or ten feet away from the base.
+
+These branches being numerous and thickly placed, constituted what might
+be considered a tepee, with only the broad opening in front.
+
+It was in this rude shelter that Warren Starr and Tim Brophy had spent a
+couple of nights in comparative comfort. The second one was bitterly
+cold, and they kindled a fire near the entrance. The smoke caused some
+trouble, but wrapped in their thick blankets, and stretched out back to
+back, they slept as soundly as if in their beds at home.
+
+This was the structure which the youth had in mind when he turned his
+back on the regular trail and made for the wild solitude through which
+he now began threading his way, and it was a striking tribute to his
+woodcraft and knowledge that within fifteen minutes he reached the very
+spot, with his pony at his heels.
+
+"This is the place," he remarked to his animal, "but there don't seem to
+be any lamps lighted, and it's best to look around a little before
+retiring for the night."
+
+Drawing a rubber match-safe from his pocket, he ignited one of the tiny
+bits of wood, shading the twist of flame from the snowflakes, though
+there was no wind stirring.
+
+It was months since he had visited the place, and the elements were
+likely to have played havoc with the structure during that period, for
+in that part of our Union the blizzard and tempest raise the mischief at
+certain seasons.
+
+He was gratified, however, to note the slight change effected. One or
+two of the long branches had fallen to the ground and several others
+were askew. He was obliged to fling aside the match while he devoted
+some minutes to straightening them. This was effected so well that when
+he stepped inside and struck another match he saw not a flake of snow
+filtering through the crevices, though there was likely to be
+considerable before morning.
+
+"Come in!" was the astonishing command the youth gave to his pony, who
+stood looking at him, as if wondering what the next move was to be. The
+situation was amusing, and not without its ludicrous side, with Warren
+holding a match in one hand, his rifle in the other, and his heavy
+blanket wrapped about his shoulders, beckoning and addressing the pony,
+which hesitated for a minute at this unexpected invitation to share the
+couch of his master.
+
+But he was an obedient animal, and with some more sniffing and poking
+forward of his nose, he stepped slowly forward until he was entirely
+within the rude structure.
+
+"Now lie down," added Warren, lighting another match, and Jack obeyed
+with more promptness than before. Then the youth flung the broad, heavy
+blanket over the pony so as to envelop as much of him as possible, lay
+down close to the front of his body, adjusting the hoofs as best he
+could, drew the rest of the covering over himself, and was excusable for
+chuckling:
+
+"Now, Jack, old fellow, what's to prevent us from sleeping as snug as a
+bug in a rug! Hey, my boy?"
+
+Everything promised well, but before either could fall asleep, they were
+startled beyond measure by hearing someone moving outside. Whispering
+to the horse to keep still, Warren slipped out from under the blanket
+and moved softly to the opening, revolver in hand. As he did so, he ran
+squarely against another person who was in the act of entering the place
+of shelter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+TIM BROPHY'S DISCOVERY.
+
+
+The letter which was delivered to Warren Starr by his mortally wounded
+hound not only gave that young man definite news of the alarming events
+in the neighborhood of his home, but has conveyed to the reader the
+cause of the abrupt change in his plans and of the stirring incidents
+which led to the hasty flight of the Starr family from their ranch on
+the north of the Big Cheyenne River.
+
+As stated in the note, it was Tim Brophy, the young Irishman, who made
+the discovery in time to prevent the family being overwhelmed and
+massacred. While Jared Plummer, the lank New Englander, rode to the
+westward to look after some strays, Tim galloped north to attend to the
+main herd, which was supposed to be cropping the abundant grass in the
+neighborhood of several small streams and tributaries of the main
+river.
+
+Tim had been in the employ of Mr. Starr for three years, and had spent
+most of his life in the West, so that he had fully learned the lesson
+which such an experience should teach everyone. He knew of the impending
+trouble among the Indian tribes, and was always on the alert. It was not
+long, therefore, before he came upon signs which told him something was
+amiss.
+
+In the corner of a natural clearing, near one of the small streams, he
+discovered a dozen of the cattle lying dead. It was not necessary for
+him to dismount and examine the ground to learn the cause of such
+slaughter. The footprints of ponies near by, the bullet wounds, and
+other indications answered the question that came to his lips at the
+first glimpse of the cruel butchery.
+
+"The spalpeens!" he exclaimed wrath-fully. "They niver had a better
+friend than Mr. Starr, and that's the shtyle in which they pays him for
+the same. Worrah, worrah, but it's too bad!"
+
+Riding cautiously to the top of the next elevation, the young rancher
+saw other sights which filled him with greater indignation and
+resentment. A half mile to the northward the entire herd of cattle,
+numbering several hundreds, were scurrying over the plain in a wild
+panic. The figures of several Sioux bucks galloping at their heels,
+swinging their arms and shouting, so as to keep up and add to the
+affright, left no doubt that Mr. Starr's fine drove of cattle was gone
+beyond recovery. The result of months of toil, expense, and trouble were
+vanishing as they sometimes do before the resistless sweep of the
+cyclone.
+
+The blue eyes of the Celt flashed, as he sat in the saddle and
+contemplated the exasperating raid. Nothing would have pleased him
+better than to dash with several companions after the marauders and
+force them to a reckoning for the outrage. But eager as he was for such
+an affray, he was too wise to try it alone. There were five or six of
+the horsemen, and he was no match for them.
+
+Besides this, a more alarming discovery broke upon him within a minute
+after observing the stampede. From the clump of wood on his right, along
+the edge of the stream, only a few hundred yards away, he detected the
+faint smoke of a camp-fire. The Sioux were there.
+
+The sight so startled Tim that he wheeled his pony short around and
+withdrew behind the elevation he had just ascended, fearing he had
+already been observed by the red men.
+
+Such undoubtedly would have been the fact had any of the turbulent Sioux
+been on guard, but the occasion was one of those rare ones in which the
+warriors acted upon the theory that no such precaution was needed, since
+no possible danger could threaten them.
+
+Suspecting the truth, Tim dropped hastily from his pony and stole along
+the edge of the stream, until he reached a point which gave him a sight
+of the miscreants, and at the same time afforded him tolerably fair
+protection.
+
+The scene was calculated to inspire anything but pleasant feelings in a
+spectator. Fully a score of young warriors were squatted in a circle,
+listening to the harangue of one of their number, who had wrought
+himself into a furious passion. He was swinging his arms, shouting and
+leaping about like a lunatic, and rising to a pitch which not only
+threatened to throw him into a paroxysm, but was imparting itself to his
+listeners. Some of them were smoking, but showing at the same time an
+excitement which is generally believed to be foreign to the American
+race. They were all bucks, and eager to be led upon the warpath. There
+was not an old or middle-aged man among them.
+
+The eavesdropper was not able to understand their words, but the
+gestures left no doubt of their fearful meaning. The speaker pointed in
+the direction of the home of the Starrs so often, and indulged in so
+much action to which the others signified full assent, that it was
+beyond dispute that they meant to attack the house and slay the inmates.
+Knowing all about these, and the resistance they were likely to meet,
+they would wait until night before bursting upon them.
+
+Tim Brophy was sagacious enough to grasp almost on the instant the full
+nature of the awful peril. He saw that accident, or rather Providence,
+had given to him the secret which revealed that only by prompt action
+could the lives of his friends be saved. There was no saying how long
+the council, if such it may be called, would last, and he did not care
+to know.
+
+Nothing could show the intense absorption of the fierce Sioux in the
+outrage they had determined to commit more than the fact that a white
+man rose up in full view only a few hundred yards away, without his
+presence being detected. Such being the case, it was easy for Tim to
+withdraw from the immediate vicinity of the gathering, steal round to
+where his pony was cropping the grass, and mount again.
+
+He rode carefully forward, keeping the elevation between him and the
+camp of the hostiles, until convinced it was safe, when he struck his
+horse into a run and sped away as if for life.
+
+A few minutes sufficed to take him to the house, where the unsuspicious
+folk looked up in wonder at his haste and agitation. Mr. Starr was
+sitting near the window reading a newspaper, his little girl Dot was
+playing with her doll on the floor, and the wife was busy with her
+household duties.
+
+It took but a few minutes for Tim to tell the news. Jared Plummer had
+not yet come in, and there could be no guessing as to what additional
+facts he would give them.
+
+Like his employé, the rancher was quick to grasp the situation. The only
+possible safety was in flight, and no time was to be lost.
+
+The building, with its broad, flat roof, its many windows and insecure
+portions, was in no condition for successful defence, where the small
+garrison could not guard one-half the weak points. The assailants could
+readily fire it, and it would burn like so much touchwood. Flight,
+therefore, was the one and only thing to be thought of.
+
+It was yet comparatively early in the afternoon, and those on the ranch
+had noted the signs of the approaching snowstorm. The husband directed
+his wife to make her preparations few and simple, and to waste no time.
+It was idle to bewail the necessity which compelled them to leave so
+many precious articles behind. Life was dearer than all, and the
+courageous helpmate proved herself equal to the occasion. She gathered
+the articles of clothing they were likely to need, filled several bags
+with the provisions in the house, and announced that she was ready.
+
+There was a horse each for the father, mother, and Tim Brophy, while a
+fourth, a small, tough pony, was laden with the bag of provisions, extra
+clothing, and a few articles deemed indispensable. These were brought
+round to the front, and in much less time than would be supposed the
+little cavalcade was ready to move.
+
+Despite the belief of Brophy that no attack would be made until after
+darkness had closed,--a belief shared by Mr. Starr,--the rancher was
+fearful that his home would be placed under surveillance while daylight
+lasted, and that the intended flight would be discovered before it
+began. In such an event, the family could only fight it out to the
+desperate end, and that they would do so admits of no doubt.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+LEAVING THE RANCH.
+
+
+Now that everything was ready, Mr. Starr felt anxious about the absent
+Jared Plummer. He ought to have learned of the danger before this, and
+should have been almost, if not quite, as prompt as Tim Brophy in
+hastening to the house. His continued absence gave ground for fear that
+harm had befallen him, but his friends were powerless to give him help.
+
+"It won't do to wait," remarked the rancher gravely, "and he will be as
+able to do without as with us."
+
+"Why not lave a missage for him?" asked Tim.
+
+"The idea is a good one," replied Mr. Starr, who, sitting down,
+hurriedly penned the following upon a slip of paper, and pinned it on
+the front door of the dwelling, where it was sure to catch the eye of
+the absent one in the event of his return:
+
+     TO JARED PLUMMER:
+
+     The presence of the Sioux, and the certainty that they will attack
+     the ranch before long, leave no choice for us but to flee at once.
+     I have waited as long as I dare. We shall take a south-west course
+     and will aim to reach Fort Meade. Follow as soon as you can, and we
+     will look out for each other; but give your thoughts and energies
+     to taking care of yourself. More than likely we shall not see each
+     other until we meet at the post, if it be God's will that we shall
+     safely arrive there.
+
+     GEORGE STARR.
+
+Little Dot watched her father with great interest while he was fastening
+this piece of paper to the door of their home.
+
+"What's that for, papa?" she asked.
+
+"It is something for Mr. Plummer to read when he comes back."
+
+"Don't you want anyone else to read it?"
+
+"Of course not," replied the parent with a smile, lovingly patting the
+chubby cheek.
+
+"But if the bad Indians you and mamma have been talking about come here,
+they will read it too."
+
+The father started. He had not thought of that. The next moment,
+however, he laughed.
+
+"The Indians don't know how to read writing or print, so it won't do
+them any good."
+
+"But Starcus can read as well as anybody."
+
+"He has been to school and learned, and then he is a good Indian, too,
+and I wouldn't care if he did read it."
+
+"But maybe he will become bad like the other Indians," persisted the
+child.
+
+The husband looked significantly at his wife, who was also watching his
+actions and listening to the conversation. She replied with a motion of
+the head, which said there might be something in the words of the little
+one.
+
+Starcus was a young Indian that had been attending the Carlisle school
+for a couple of years, and had acquired a fair English education, being
+able to read, write, and talk intelligently. He had called at the house
+several times, and interested the family by his pleasing ways and kind
+words.
+
+He remarked on his last visit, some weeks before, that he was likely to
+remain some time with his people, and possibly would not return again
+to the East. Many things were more unlikely than that he would be
+carried away by the craze that was affecting his tribe, and become one
+of the most ferocious foes of the Caucasian race.
+
+"Tim," said Mr. Starr, turning to the Irishman, "did you notice whether
+he was among the group you saw?"
+
+"I didn't observe him, but they were fixed out in war-paint and toggery
+so that I wouldn't have knowed the gintleman onless I was inthrodooced
+to the same. Thin, too, he might have been one of the spalpeens who were
+stampeding the cattle."
+
+"Well, there's no use in thinking of that; we must take the chances; the
+Sioux will find out what course we follow without asking anyone to
+translate this message for them."
+
+Mrs. Starr caught the arm of her husband, and as he turned he noticed
+that her face was pale with emotion.
+
+"What is it, wife?" he asked in alarm.
+
+"Warren," she replied in a whisper.
+
+"What about him?"
+
+"This is the day he said he would leave the fort for home; he must be on
+the way now; unless he is warned he will ride to his death without
+suspecting it."
+
+The father forgot their own danger for the moment in his alarm for his
+son. It took but a few minutes to act upon the plan of which the reader
+has learned long since. Another letter was pencilled and secured to the
+collar of Bruno, whose instructions were so minute that they would have
+been ludicrous, but for their warrant in the wonderful intelligence of
+the animal. The hound sped away like an arrow from the bow, and the
+faithfulness with which he did his work need not be retold.
+
+There was no call for further delay. Mr. Starr mounted his fine animal,
+armed with Winchester and revolver, after he had assisted his wife upon
+another horse and placed Dot in front of her. The mother was a superior
+horsewoman, and this arrangement was intended to leave the husband free
+to act without hinderance, in the event of an emergency. Tim Brophy was
+equally at liberty, and with the pack animal well laden the party left
+the home, each oppressed by a great fear that they would not only never
+look upon it again, but would probably be struck down before reaching
+the nearest point of safety, many miles away, at the base of the Black
+Hills.
+
+More than one eye anxiously turned toward the elevation, beyond which
+Tim Brophy had seen the bucks listening to the impassioned harangue of
+their leader, and the relief was not great when they rode over another
+swell in the plain, which shut them out from the sight of any of the
+serpent-eyed Sioux concealed there; for there could be no certainty that
+the fugitives had not been observed by them. It was not the custom of
+their people to attack openly; more likely they would set some ambush
+into which the whites might ride with no thought of danger.
+
+But in one sense the Rubicon was crossed. They had turned their backs on
+the ranch, and it was to be dismissed from their thoughts until they
+should reach some place of safety.
+
+There was little said by any member of the party, for the occasion was
+not one to induce conversation. Even little Dot was oppressed by the
+general gloom, and nestled close to her mother, whose arm lovingly
+encircled and held her close to her breast, which would gladly receive
+any blow intended for that precious one.
+
+Tim Brophy remained a brief distance at the rear, with the pack animal,
+on the alert for the first sign of danger, while Mr. Starr gave his
+attention to the front, selecting the course, and doing all in his power
+to avoid leading his companions into danger.
+
+When, however, a half mile had been passed, during which several ridges
+were crossed, a feeling of hope arose that after all they might elude
+their vengeful enemies. With the coming of night, it would be impossible
+for the Sioux to trail them. They must wait until the following morning,
+and before that time the fugitives ought to be so near Fort Meade that
+the pursuit would be in vain.
+
+It was a striking proof of parental affection that now, when the cloud
+was partly lifted from the father and mother, their anxiety should be
+transferred to the absent son on his way to join them. He was in the
+minds of both, and despite his exceptional skill in woodcraft, the
+conviction grew upon the parents that he was in greater peril than they.
+Finally, the mother uttered the thoughts in her mind.
+
+"I agree with you, Molly," the husband replied. "Bruno will do his best,
+but I believe the chances are a hundred to one that he will fail, and
+Warren will ride straight to his death."
+
+"Can't we do something, George?"
+
+The husband turned his head, and beckoned to his employé to ride up
+between them.
+
+"Tim, you know the regular trail to the fort as well as the way to your
+own bedroom. I want you to set out to meet Warren, and prevent his
+running into the hands of the Sioux."
+
+"Whin would ye like me to start?"
+
+"Now."
+
+"I'm riddy and waiting to ride to me death for the boy, if nade be."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+"TIMOTHY BROPHY, ESQ., AT YOUR SERVICE."
+
+
+At first thought, the abrupt departure of Tim Brophy may seem an
+imprudent thing, since it left only one man to look after the safety of
+Mrs. Starr and their little one; but it will be remembered that the hope
+of safety lay not in fighting, but in flight; and the presence or
+absence of the young Irishman could not affect that one way or the
+other.
+
+Accordingly, with a pause only long enough to draw a substantial lunch
+from the provision bag and to bid his friends good-by, Tim wheeled his
+horse and was off like a shot. He took good care to avoid the
+neighborhood of the bucks, and soon left the ranch far behind, speeding
+along the trail over which Warren Starr was at that moment galloping
+toward him.
+
+The youth drove his task through with all the impetuosity of his nature.
+He was devotedly attached to the son of his employer, and was ready at
+any time, as he had always been, to risk his life for him. Believing as
+he did that he was in more imminent peril than anyone else, he bent
+every energy toward reaching and turning him aside before it was too
+late.
+
+In this essay, Tim committed a mistake which Warren Starr narrowly
+avoided. He acted on the theory that the only real danger was in the
+immediate neighborhood of the ranch, and that none existed near the
+ridges between which the trail led. The consequence was that, when he
+was not dreaming of any such thing, he suddenly became the target for a
+fusillade from Sioux rifles that were waiting to receive young Starr,
+and therefore were not fully prepared for him. By desperate work and
+good fortune he and his pony ran the gauntlet unscathed, and continued
+their flight southward. The whinny of his friend's pony, he supposed,
+came from one of the horses of his enemies, and therefore he galloped on
+without paying any heed to it.
+
+Meanwhile, as will be remembered, young Starr had pushed through the
+falling snow and gathering darkness until he and his horse reached the
+primitive shelter among the rocks, bowlders, and trees which he had used
+when on previous hunting expeditions. After he and Jack had disposed
+themselves for the night they were disturbed by the approach of someone.
+Rising to his feet, Warren hurried stealthily to the door, where he ran
+directly against the intruder, whom he was unable to recognize in the
+gloom.
+
+"Who are you?" he asked, holding his revolver ready for instant use, but
+unwilling to fire until sure he was facing an enemy.
+
+"Timothy Brophy, Esq., at your service," replied his friend, identifying
+the other by his voice.
+
+"Why, Tim, I can't tell you how glad I am to see you," exclaimed the
+delighted Warren: "I have thought a score of times, when on the way, how
+pleasant it would be to meet you. What brought you here?"
+
+"My horse, and I presume that yours did the same for yersilf."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"Outside, near by, wid the bist shelter I could give him: I didn't saa
+your own."
+
+"He's inside, sharing my couch with me, or, rather, was doing so when
+you disturbed us."
+
+Tim broke into laughter.
+
+"That's a good idaa; I niver heerd of anything like it before. Is there
+room for Billy, too?"
+
+"I'm afraid we would be crowded; but come inside till I strike a match
+and show you how things are fixed."
+
+The two entered, and Warren ignited another lucifer. Jack was evidently
+puzzled, raising his head and looking at them in a way which suggested
+that he would like to come to his feet.
+
+"Lie down, old fellow!" commanded his master; "there's nothing to be
+disturbed about; you couldn't have better quarters, and you will be wise
+to stay where you are; you're better off than Billy."
+
+Now that Tim had arrived with his blanket, it was decided that the pony
+should be left where he was, while the youths lay down on the other
+covering, which was wrapped about them.
+
+Then they curled up and made themselves as comfortable as on their
+previous stay in the rude shelter.
+
+Lying thus, they naturally talked over what had taken place since their
+last meeting. Warren's voice trembled when he told the story of Bruno,
+who gave his life for him and his friends, and Tim related what had
+befallen the others during the day.
+
+Young Starr was filled with alarm for his parents and little sister, but
+Tim was hopeful that everything would come out right, and that, by the
+time the sun rose, they would be so far advanced on their way to Fort
+Meade that the danger would be virtually over.
+
+"Ye knows," he continued, "that yer fayther is acquainted wid the way as
+well as yerself; the horses are frish and strong, and he'll not spare
+thim; the road, too, is not as long as by the rig'lar route that we've
+follyed so often."
+
+"That is true, but it must be all of thirty miles, and is really much
+greater because of the ridges, hills, streams, and difficult places in
+the path, which will compel many detours."
+
+"And the same will have to be observed by the spalpeens that may be
+thrying to overtake thim."
+
+"But they understand the business better."
+
+"I'm not so sartin of that," sturdily replied Tim; "yer fayther is no
+green hand."
+
+"That isn't what I mean; I'm thinking of mother and Dot; he will have to
+accommodate himself to them, and in case the Indians do come up with
+them----"
+
+"Arrah, now, what are ye thinking of?" demanded Tim impatiently; "if ye
+want to go to specylatin' and 'ifing,' ye may refar to oursilves and say
+that if the spalpeens come down here wid Sitting Bull laading the same,
+and they sit fire to this ilegant risidence, what will become of us?"
+
+"That is very well, Tim, and you mean right, but I shall not rest a
+minute until I know they have reached the fort. It's strange, too, about
+Plummer."
+
+"It's my opinion," remarked the Irishman, lowering his voice, as though
+afraid of being overheard, "that he's in throuble."
+
+"Why do you think so?"
+
+"Because he did not show up before we lift; he hadn't any farther to go
+than mesilf, and it was nearly an hour after I got back before we come
+away, but there was no sign of him."
+
+"Did you hear no firing?"
+
+"Not that I remimber; which reminds me that it was also quaar that the
+Sioux could have shot down the cattle as they did, so near the house,
+widout any of us noting the noise of their guns."
+
+"It was singular, but perhaps you were all inside at the time, busy at
+something. At any rate, instead of our hurrying back to the fort, we
+will do our best to find father and mother, and stick by them to the
+end."
+
+"I'm wid ye there," was the hearty response of Tim; "I'd like to give
+Plummer a helping hand, but see no way to do the same, and it is likely
+that he can get along better widout us than wid us."
+
+The two talked a long time, for their hearts were full. It was not until
+midnight that a feeling of drowsiness began creeping over them. Tim's
+remarks began to grow slower and more disconnected, until finally he
+failed to answer at all. Finding that he was asleep, Warren composed
+himself as comfortably as he could, and soon joined him in the land of
+dreams.
+
+The snow continued sifting softly downward, and rattled against the
+branches and leaves which composed a portion of their house. The
+temperature sank as the night progressed, and the situation of the
+couple, no less than that of their friends, became anything but hopeful.
+
+They were still a long way from the post, where they could feel secure,
+and the Indians were certain to press them hard. They were so much more
+numerous than the little band of fugitives that the advantage lay wholly
+with them.
+
+But the night passed without disturbance. Then the pony and the two
+youths awoke simultaneously, for they were aroused by one of the most
+startling causes that can be conceived: It was the screaming whinny of
+Tim Brophy's horse--a cry rarely heard from the animal, and only when in
+the very extremity of mortal terror.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+STIRRING TIMES.
+
+
+Warren Starr and Tim Brophy sprang up at the same instant. The gray
+light of the early wintry morning was stealing through the rocky
+solitude, the snow had ceased falling, and the weather was colder than
+on the preceding evening. The pony also began struggling to his feet,
+but the youths in their excitement paid no heed to him.
+
+"It's Billy," whispered Tim.
+
+"Yes; let's see what is the matter."
+
+The young Irishman had formed the decision a moment before, for he was
+as ready to defend his horse as a friend. He bounded out from the rude
+shelter, with his companion at his heels.
+
+It was but a short distance to the spot where he had left the animal to
+spend the night. The boys dropped their blankets, but each grasped his
+Winchester, confident that there was call for its use.
+
+It was on a small natural clearing, where, after grazing a few minutes
+in the dark, the pony had lain down to sleep, his instinct leading him
+to select the side of a towering rock, where he was well protected from
+the falling snow. This bare place was less than a quarter of an acre in
+extent, and narrowed to what might be called a point, where the horse
+had found refuge from the storm. Surrounded by bowlders, varying in
+height from eight or more feet to twice that extent, his only means of
+entering or leaving was through the opening at the extreme end, which
+was not less than a rod in width.
+
+The pony had probably risen to his feet with the first coming of
+daylight, when he was confronted by the most terrifying sight
+conceivable; a colossal grizzly bear stood in the middle of the "door,"
+calmly surveying him, and evidently of the belief that he had come upon
+the most palatable kind of breakfast, which was already secured to him
+beyond possibility of loss.
+
+When it is borne in mind that the pony was caught in a trap as secure as
+an iron cage, it will be understood why the intelligent animal, in the
+agony of helplessness, emitted that astounding cry which rang like the
+wail of doom through the snowy solitude. Thousands of his species live
+for years and die without giving expression to that horrible outcry, for
+it requires the agony of fear to call it forth.
+
+The horse has five times the intelligence of the bear, but the latter
+was not stupid enough to fail to see his advantage, or to allow it to
+slip from him. The enormous trail which he had made in the snow was
+noticed by Tim Brophy before seeing the brute, and he identified it at a
+glance, his only fear being that he might arrive too late to save his
+pony.
+
+The latter cowered against the rock, his fright so pitiable that, in the
+stirring moments, both youths were touched with sympathy for him.
+
+"Begorra, but isn't he a bouncer?" whispered Tim, coming to a halt. "I
+niver looked upon as big a one."
+
+"Has he hurt Billy?" asked Warren, who, as will be remembered, was a
+few paces behind him while making the brief run.
+
+"He has scared him out of ten years' growth, and it's mesilf that's
+going to pay the same compliment to the spalpeen."
+
+"Be careful, Tim! You know how hard it is to kill one of those
+creatures, and when they are roused----"
+
+Further utterance was cut short by the report of Tim's gun. The young
+Irishman's failing was his impetuosity. When he saw his services needed,
+he was so eager to give them that he frequently threw caution to the
+winds, and plunged into the fray like a diver going off the rocks.
+
+Halting less than fifty feet away, he brought his rifle to a level and
+let fly. It was as impossible for him to miss as it was to inflict a
+mortal wound, and the ball meant for the skull of the brute found
+lodgment elsewhere.
+
+The bear appeared to be in the act of rising partly on his haunches,
+when the report, and probably a sharp twinge in his shoulder, apprised
+him of what was going on at the rear. The contemplated feast was not to
+be without its unpleasant interruption.
+
+He uttered a low growl and came straight for the two youths. Their
+rifles being of the magazine kind, they were prepared to open a
+bombardment, which they did without delay; but after a number of shots
+had been fired, and the mountainous animal continued to sweep down upon
+them, Warren called out:
+
+"Let's run, Tim! we need a cannon to stop him; we must find some place
+to shelter us."
+
+Not doubting that his comrade would instantly follow, Warren wheeled
+about and dashed off without paying heed to the direction; he had no
+time to make any calculations.
+
+Despite the fall of snow, there were only two or three inches on the
+ground, just enough to interfere with rapid travelling. Young Starr had
+not taken a dozen steps, when his foot turned on a smooth stone and he
+pitched headlong, with his gun flying from his grasp. He was not hurt,
+and he bounded up again as if made of rubber. He supposed the animal,
+which can lumber along at a speedy gait despite its awkwardness, was on
+his heels, but the furtive glance over his shoulder showed nothing of
+him, and the youth plunged forward and caught up his weapon as may be
+said on the fly.
+
+With its recovery came something like confidence again, and he turned
+about to learn how Tim Brophy was making out.
+
+It was just like the plucky fellow not to dash after his comrade, but to
+stand his ground, when the most experienced and the bravest hunter in
+the world would have lost no time in increasing the distance between him
+and the brute. The latter had scared Billy half to death, and his master
+meant to punish him therefor, so he held his ground, and managed to send
+in another shot while the grizzly was approaching, but which did no more
+to check his charge than a wad from a pop-gun.
+
+This reckless daring on the part of Tim would have brought disaster, but
+for an unexpected interference.
+
+Billy, the pony, no sooner saw the terrible brute turn his back upon him
+and lumber off, than he understood that the way of escape for him had
+opened. His panic departed like a flash, and he plunged through the
+opening with a snort of triumph; but his line of flight took him of
+necessity along that followed by the grizzly himself, who was advancing
+to the assault of the brave young Irishman.
+
+There may have been a feeling of wrathful resentment thrilling the
+nerves of the gallant pony, or it is not beyond belief that he
+understood the danger of his master. Be that as it may, he was no sooner
+beside the huge brute, who slightly turned his head on hearing the
+clatter of the hoofs, than he let drive with both hind feet, landing
+them with such terrific force against the iron ribs of the monster that
+he fell half upon his side, after being driven several feet beyond the
+path.
+
+"Good for you!" called the delighted Tim, "let him have another
+broadside, Billy, and we'll finish him----"
+
+The assault of the pony diverted the attention of the grizzly for a
+moment from the youth to the assailant. He was thoroughly roused, and
+made for the horse, who showed more sense than his master by dashing
+off at full speed. This being beyond the attainment of the bear, it may
+be said that Billy's escape was absolute.
+
+The sudden check in Tim's words was caused by bruin, who had passed but
+a few paces beyond the youth, when, seeing how useless it was to pursue
+the pony, he wheeled and once more charged upon the master.
+
+The moment had arrived for the young rancher to call his legs into
+service. He was willing to run when the necessity was apparent, and none
+could excel him as a sprinter--that is, none of his kind.
+
+He assuredly would have been overtaken before he could climb any of the
+bowlders or rocks, or get out of the path, had not a bullet bored its
+way directly through the brain of the grizzly, and brought him to earth
+at the moment when the life of the fugitive hung on a thread.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+STARCUS.
+
+
+Warren Starr was terrified for the moment by the peril of his companion.
+While running toward him he saw the grizzly rise partly on his haunches
+to seize Tim, who was within his grasp, but at that instant the brute
+toppled over, and with one or two struggles was dead.
+
+It was an exciting moment, but a singular discovery came to young
+Starr--the shot that slew the bear was fired neither by himself nor Tim!
+
+Without waiting to investigate, he dashed to where his panting friend
+was looking down at the fallen monster, as if uncertain what to do.
+
+"Gracious, Tim!" called Warren, as he came up, "that was the closest
+call you ever had."
+
+"It's qu'ar," replied the other, "that after we had pumped about a ton
+of lead into him without hurting the spalpeen, he should dhrop down from
+a single shot."
+
+"That's because it was aimed right."
+
+"But ye had no bitter chance than meself, nor what ye also was given a
+few minutes ago."
+
+"But it was not I, Tim, who fired the last shot."
+
+"What are ye talking about?" demanded the other. "I had no chance to
+shoot me rifle, and who ilse could have done the same?"
+
+"But I tell you I did not fire; I was about to do so, when someone else
+saved me the trouble; I am sure I couldn't have done any better than I
+did before."
+
+"Thin who was the mon?"
+
+The question naturally caused the couple to look around in quest of the
+unknown friend.
+
+They saw him at the first glance.
+
+"There he is! Look at him!" whispered Tim Brophy.
+
+Less than a hundred yards away stood an Indian warrior, calmly watching
+them. He had mounted a bowlder, so that his figure was brought out in
+clear relief. He was in Indian costume, most of it being hidden by a
+heavy blanket gathered around the shoulders, but the leggings and
+moccasons showed beneath, and the head was ornamented with stained
+eagle-feathers. The noticeable fact about him, however, was that his
+black hair was short, and the feathers were fixed in a sort of band,
+which clasped the forehead. The rather pleasing face was fantastically
+daubed with paint, and he held a fine rifle in his right hand, the other
+being concealed under his blanket.
+
+His action, or rather want of action, was striking. The bowlder which
+supported him was no more stationary than he. He gazed fixedly at the
+youths, but made no signs and uttered no word.
+
+"Begorra, but he's a shtrange gintleman," muttered Tim. "I wonder if
+he's posin' for his picter."
+
+"His firing of the gun proves that he is a friend," said Warren; "so we
+have nothing to fear from him."
+
+"If that's the case why doesn't he come forward and interdooce himself?
+whisht now!"
+
+What did the Irishman do but pucker up his mouth, whistle, and beckon to
+the Indian to approach. The latter, however, did not move a muscle.
+
+"Helloa!" called Warren; "we thank you for your kindness; won't you come
+forward and join us?"
+
+This appeal was as fruitless as the other.
+
+"If the copper gintleman won't come to us I'm going to him."
+
+It was just like Tim to start forward to carry out his intention, though
+a sense of delicacy restrained his companion from joining him. The
+Indian, however, nipped the little scheme in the bud.
+
+The Irishman had taken only two or three steps, when the Sioux, as he
+evidently was, turned about, leaped lightly down from the bowlder, and
+vanished.
+
+"Well, I'll be hanged!" exclaimed the disappointed Tim, stopping short;
+"ye may be a good rifle shot, but be the same token ye are not fond of
+selict company," and with a laugh he walked back to his friend, whose
+face was so grave as to attract the notice of the Irishman.
+
+"What's the matter, Warren?"
+
+"Do you know who that Indian is?"
+
+"I niver have saan him before."
+
+"Yes, you have, many a time; he's been at our house within the past few
+weeks."
+
+"Who is he?"
+
+"Starcus."
+
+"Git out!"
+
+"I'm not mistaken," insisted young Starr, compressing his lips and
+shaking his head. "He's painted and dressed like his people, but his
+short hair made me suspicious, and when he turned to jump down from the
+bowlder, he made a movement that fixed his identity beyond all doubt."
+
+"Wal, ye're so sartin about it that I can't help belaving ye; but if it
+was Starcus, why did he act that way? Why didn't he spake, and why
+didn't he coom forward and shake hands wid us?"
+
+"That's what troubles me; it wasn't like him. It makes me believe he has
+joined the hostiles."
+
+"But if that is the case why did he interfere whin the grizzly was about
+to chaw me up?"
+
+"His whole action was strange, but I explain it this way: He was
+prowling through this place, probably to help the bucks that are now on
+the warpath, when he heard our guns, made his way forward, and seeing
+the bear about to pounce upon you, he fired with the wish to save you.
+Your danger caused him to feel friendly toward us; for otherwise,
+instead of killing the bear he would have shot you and me."
+
+"Maybe he fired at me instead of the bear," suggested Tim, "and it was a
+chance shot that saved meself."
+
+"That cannot be, for he is too good a marksman to make such a miss. I
+have fired at a target with him and never saw a better shot than he.
+Then, too, when he found he missed, he could have turned his Winchester
+on us in turn and brought us both down."
+
+"And ye think after his doing us that kindness, he became an inimy
+agin?"
+
+"He has caught the craze that is setting his people wild, and though you
+didn't recognize him yesterday among that party of bucks near the house,
+I believe he was either there or was one of the horsemen that stampeded
+the cattle. He is with them body and soul. His last shot was given
+through impulse. Of course he knew us both, and acted from a generous
+motive. He may have stood there debating with himself whether to
+continue that friendship, when your advance scattered all his good
+resolutions to the winds. He has gone off to join the others, and when
+we meet again he will be our bitter foe, eager to serve us both as he
+served the grizzly. Let us not deceive ourselves about that."
+
+"There's one thing that looks well," remarked Tim a moment later; "if
+Starcus is wid the ither spalpeens, they haven't found your fayther and
+mither, for they're not in this part of the counthry."
+
+"That gives me relief," said Warren, with a glowing face; "the folks
+must be many miles away, and these people are off their track
+altogether. Father will waste no time, but push on. This snow is not
+deep enough to bother them, and they ought to be safely within Fort
+Meade by nightfall."
+
+"But what about us?" asked Tim significantly.
+
+"This isn't our right latitude. We must pull out as quickly as we can.
+Our ponies are fresh, and can travel as fast as any of the Indian ones.
+We haven't far to go to reach the open country, and then we'll head for
+the fort, unless we conclude to hunt for the folks before reaching
+there. In the meantime, Tim, I'm hungry enough to eat my shoes."
+
+"I'm wid ye there."
+
+"We shall have to wait here long enough to cook a steak from that bear.
+He seems to be in fine condition, and will give us a good meal."
+
+"There!" laughed the Irishman; "I knowed I had forgot something. Your
+mither give me a good, big lunch for us both whin I was laving
+yesterday, and it is in the residence beyant, onless yer pony ate up the
+same whin we warn't watching him."
+
+"Little fear of that," replied the pleased Warren. "It is hardly the
+sort of food that he fancies. Come on; let's have a good meal, and then
+we'll be off."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+ON THE BANK OF A STREAM.
+
+
+It need not be said that George Starr wasted no time. Halting only long
+enough to say a few words to Tim Brophy before he set out to warn the
+son of his danger, he resumed his journey toward Fort Meade, some thirty
+miles away, at the base of the Black Hills.
+
+He drew up beside the pony on which his wife sat with Dot in front. The
+pack-horse did not require leading, but as his load was lighter than
+either of the others, he kept his head at the haunch of the others, and
+plodded along as contentedly as they.
+
+Though the route to the post by means of the regular trail was longer,
+it was always used when safe, because it was easy travelling throughout
+its whole extent. The country before the husband and wife was varied.
+There were miles of open plain, over which they could ride at a gallop,
+while in other places, the rocky ridges, broken timber, and gullies
+compelled detours that were likely to render a two days' journey
+necessary.
+
+In addition to all this several streams must be crossed, and these were
+held in great dread, for if swimming became necessary, the plight of the
+little company, with the thermometer striking steadily below freezing
+point, would be pitiful indeed. The ranchman was resolved to save his
+wife and child from such an affliction, by constructing some kind of a
+raft, though the delay involved in such a work might solve the question
+of life and death.
+
+"I have never been over this route--that is, to any extent," he
+remarked, after they had ridden a short time on a brisk walk; "I have
+followed the cattle for some miles among the hills yonder, but, as you
+know, we always used the regular trail when going to the fort."
+
+"This is shorter," replied the wife, "because it is the most direct, and
+though there may be difficulties in the way, I am hopeful that we shall
+have no serious trouble."
+
+"I hope so, too, but if I am not mistaken, we must cross more than one
+stream, and if they happen to be deep, it will be no trifling matter.
+How do you feel, Dot?" he asked, looking fondly at the little one, whose
+head was about the only portion visible beneath the folds of the blanket
+wrapped about her.
+
+"I'm all right," replied the sweet voice, while the bright eyes twinkled
+happily, as though no thought of danger or sorrow had ever dimmed them.
+
+"How long do you think you can ride on the back of Sally?"
+
+"Just as long as she can carry me."
+
+"That's good," laughed the parent, who could not help reaching across
+from the saddle and pinching the chubby cheek; "I want to give you a
+good long ride, and we may keep it up after dark."
+
+"That don't make any difference to me, for I can sleep here as well as
+in my bed at home. Mamma will take care of me, won't you?" she asked,
+twisting her head about and looking up in the face of her parent.
+
+The latter leaned down and kissed her, murmuring:
+
+"Yes, with my life, precious one; but we are in the keeping of God, and
+he is always merciful and kind."
+
+"I know that," said the child thoughtfully, "for hasn't He given me the
+best parents in the world? Oh, look! papa and mamma!" she added, forcing
+her head farther out of its environments, and pointing to the top of the
+elevation they were approaching.
+
+The sight was a pretty one indeed. A noble buck had arrived first, from
+the other side of the ridge, and paused on the highest point. With his
+head erect, he looked down in wonderment at the party approaching him.
+He made a fine picture, with his antlers high in air and his whole form
+thrown in relief against the leaden sky beyond.
+
+"What a fine mark," said the rancher admiringly; "I never saw a larger
+buck."
+
+"You don't intend to shoot him?"
+
+"No; we have all the food we are likely to want, and the sound of the
+gun might be dangerous to us, when there's no saying that other of the
+Sioux are not in the neighborhood."
+
+"Isn't that too bad!"
+
+The regretful exclamation of Dot was caused by the disappearance of the
+animal. The steady advance of the party was more than the timid creature
+could face. He whirled about and was off like a flash, to the keen
+regret of Dot, who was hoping for a closer acquaintance. The parents
+smiled at the innocence of the little one, and assured her it would have
+to be caught and tamed before allowing any companionship from anyone.
+
+A few minutes later the friends rode to the top of the elevation,
+halting at the very spot where the buck had stood but a few minutes
+before.
+
+"Just what I feared!" exclaimed the rancher regretfully.
+
+As he spoke he pointed to the westward, where the gleam of water was
+seen, revealing a winding stream, which it was necessary to cross before
+continuing their journey.
+
+"It is not broad and may not be deep," remarked the wife.
+
+"That can be ascertained only by investigation."
+
+He halted long enough to take a sweeping survey of the country behind
+them. There might have been Indians watching, but, if so, he detected no
+signs of them. The little party were conspicuous objects, but it was an
+easy matter for anyone to keep out of sight of the keenest vision on the
+crest of the elevation.
+
+The stream that had caught his eye was about half a mile away, the
+intervening ground being a comparatively level and grassy plain, but
+beyond the water stretched a hilly and wooded section, which was likely
+to offer serious obstacles to their progress.
+
+"We shall have snow before night," remarked Mr. Starr, glancing up and
+around at the sky, "and if it amounts to much it will make more
+trouble."
+
+"Let us ride faster, then, while we may," said his wife, urging her pony
+into a gallop, which was instantly imitated by the other, though the
+gait was so distasteful to the pack-horse that he held back until
+sharply spoken to by his master. Finally all three struck a pace which
+speedily carried them to the stream that crossed their path.
+
+It seemed odd that while there was plenty of timber on the other side,
+even to the water's edge, not a stick was on the bank where the
+fugitives halted. If it should be found necessary to make a raft with
+which to cross, Mr. Starr might well ask himself where the material was
+to be procured, since he saw none within reach.
+
+The stream was less than a hundred yards wide and the current not swift.
+The water was roiled to that extent that the bottom could be seen only a
+few paces from shore, but the slope was so gradual that the rancher was
+hopeful that the horse would be able to wade it.
+
+He scanned the water and finally turned to his wife with a smile:
+
+"Where do you think we had better try it, Molly?"
+
+"I know of no way of learning the depth of water except by test," she
+replied; "if it were clearer, we could make use of our eyes."
+
+"I wonder if it is clearer up yonder," he remarked, looking at a clump
+of bushes above them and some rods in extent. "It strikes me that it may
+be; anyway, I will find out."
+
+Instead of riding to the spot he dismounted, and, rifle in hand, walked
+the short distance necessary. As he did so, naturally he gave more heed
+to the stream than to his footsteps, for it was the former in which his
+interest lay. Dot laughed merrily when he stumbled, and he looked about
+and shook his head in mock anger at her.
+
+The bushes he approached were no more than three or four feet in height,
+not very dense, and continued with straggling interruptions as far as
+the eye could trace the winding stream.
+
+Mrs. Starr, who was attentively watching her husband, saw him pause on
+reaching the stunted growth. He looked at the water and then at the
+bushes. Then he suddenly leaped back with an exclamation and came
+hastening to his wife, his white face and staring eyes showing that he
+had made a horrifying discovery.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+BENT ARM AND HIS BAND.
+
+
+George Starr was so agitated that, forgetting the presence of his little
+child, he impulsively spoke the truth, while yet a few paces away:
+
+"Plummer is in those bushes."
+
+"Is he----"
+
+Mrs. Starr hesitated with the dreadful word unuttered.
+
+"Yes; he is dead; killed by the Indians!"
+
+The wife gave a gasp, and the husband added:
+
+"The poor fellow lies stretched out, stark and stiff, where he was shot
+down by the Sioux. He must have been killed shortly after leaving the
+house."
+
+"Where is his horse?"
+
+"I suppose it has been stolen. It is a sad thing, but poor Plummer is
+with his Maker; it won't do for us to wait any longer; I don't
+understand how we have escaped thus far, for we are in greater danger
+than I had supposed. We must cross the stream without delay, even if we
+have to swim our horses."
+
+"I am ready," said Mrs. Starr calmly; "lead the way."
+
+"I hope it will not be necessary to subject you and Dot to the trial,
+but there is not a minute to spare."
+
+With his lips compressed, the rancher hastily remounted his pony and
+turned his head toward the water.
+
+"Let me keep in advance," he said, "and you can tell what to do."
+
+The obedient horse sniffed the water, but, without hesitation, stepped
+in, sinking to his knees within a yard of the bank.
+
+A rod farther the depth had not materially increased, and, turning his
+head, he signified to his wife to follow. She clasped Dot a little
+closer to her breast, spoke quietly to her animal, and he obeyed without
+faltering.
+
+The water steadily but slowly deepened, and when the middle of the
+stream was reached it was at the stirrups of the leader. He withdrew
+his feet and pushed on, the pony cautiously advancing, and the hope
+growing that the stream would be forded without trouble.
+
+A rod farther, and Mrs. Starr uttered a slight exclamation. She saw the
+steed of her husband suddenly sink, and thought he was going entirely
+under. But he did not, and, by a quick raising of his feet, the rider
+saved them from wetting. His animal still retained a firm foothold, and,
+quickly recovering, kept forward.
+
+Now the water began shallowing, and, with a relief beyond words, the
+rancher reached dry land without having suffered any inconvenience.
+
+"Thank Heaven!" he exclaimed, turning about and watching his wife, who
+guided her animal over the invisible trail until she was beside him on
+the hard earth. It required no little skill on her part, for when she
+withdrew her foot from her stirrup, and was obliged not only to hold her
+own poise, but to take care of Dot, her task became delicate and
+difficult. But the little one behaved like a heroine. She did not speak
+or stir, through fear of disturbing her parent, and was as relieved as
+both when the current was safely forded.
+
+"Are there any more like this?" asked the wife.
+
+"There are other streams, but whether they can be forded or not remains
+to be learned."
+
+The bank sloped upward to a height of a dozen feet, and beyond it
+declined nearly as much, and then stretched away in an open plain for
+more than a mile, before breaking into rough, rocky country, where they
+were quite sure to find greater obstructions confronting them than any
+yet encountered.
+
+"Oh, see there!" called out Dot.
+
+Flakes of scurrying snow were in the air, and her father supposed she
+referred to them.
+
+"Yes," he replied, "we shall have to ride for a while through a snow
+storm."
+
+"I know that, but it isn't what I mean; yonder is someone following us."
+
+Her position in the arms of her mother gave her opportunity to look back
+over the stream they had just crossed, while the attention of her
+parents was directed elsewhere.
+
+Her words caused both to glance behind them, where they witnessed a
+startling scene. A Sioux Indian, astride of a pony, had halted with the
+fore feet of the animal in the margin of the water. Directly behind him
+was a second horseman, advancing slowly, and immediately to the rear of
+him appeared a third, while the head and shoulders of a fourth were
+rising to view over the bank in the path of the others. And there was no
+saying how many others made up the procession, streaming toward the ford
+in the footsteps of the fugitives.
+
+"Molly," said Mr. Starr, in a low voice, "ride over the top of the hill
+as quickly as you can."
+
+"But what will you do?"
+
+"Never mind; obey me at once or we are lost."
+
+[Illustration: A HOT PURSUIT.]
+
+She obeyed without remonstrance, though her fear at that moment was more
+for her husband than for herself and child. She was quick-witted enough
+to jerk the reins sharply, so that her pony passed out of sight before
+the pursuers could suspect her purpose. But the moment she was behind
+the sheltering swell, she checked her horse and waited for her husband.
+
+The latter decided on his course of action the moment the peril broke
+upon him.
+
+He calmly confronted the advancing bucks and held himself ready to
+dispute their crossing. Unless he kept them in check and delayed the
+pursuit, nothing could save his family and himself.
+
+The foremost Sioux evidently was the leader. Starr recognized him,
+despite his paint, as a fellow who had visited his home on several
+occasions, and who was known as Bent Arm, because of a peculiar rigidity
+of the left arm, made by some wound received years before.
+
+While the white and red men sat on their ponies facing each other the
+remaining warriors continued coming into view until five of them were
+grouped behind the leader. There they sat--grim, silent, and
+watchful--leaving matters wholly in the hands of the one in front.
+
+The latter, observing the rancher at bay, called to him in fair
+English:
+
+"Wait dere--surrender--won't hurt."
+
+"Why do you ask me to surrender? We are not enemies," called back the
+white man.
+
+"Wait dere," repeated Bent Arm; "want to talk wid you."
+
+"We are talking now; stay where you are, and let me hear what you have
+to say."
+
+"We go over--we talk better dere."
+
+It was plain that the Sioux was not satisfied with the action of the
+rancher's wife. She and her child were beyond sight, and it looked as if
+the parley of her husband was meant to give her a chance to get beyond
+reach. Valuable time was passing, and unless they acted promptly, they
+would throw away an opportunity that would never come to them again.
+
+George Starr read their purpose as plainly as if they had announced it
+in so many words. Further talk was useless; the Sioux were bent on
+making him and his family prisoners, and little mercy would be shown
+them. He knew the dear ones were but a few paces away, and his wife
+would never leave the spot so long as he was in danger.
+
+The words had hardly fallen from the lips of Bent Arm when his pony
+began stepping farther into the water, while his companions closed in
+behind him.
+
+Striking his heels sharply against the sides of his horse as the rancher
+drew his head about, he sent the animal over the swell in a couple of
+bounds beyond reach of any shots that might be sent after him. He
+wondered a little that the Indians had not announced their presence by a
+volley that would have brought him from the saddle, but rightly judged
+the reason to be that they preferred to make the little party prisoners,
+considering them as good as already secured.
+
+"Stay where you are!" he called to his wondering wife. "I am going to
+make a fight with them. Our only hope is in keeping them back until it
+is dark."
+
+He was out of the saddle while speaking, and, dropping on his hands and
+knees, crawled up the swell and looked over.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+AT BAY.
+
+
+George Starr's pony, left to himself, wandered off to the side of the
+other one, on which sat Mrs. Starr, with Dot. The latter reached out her
+chubby hand and patted the silken nose of the intelligent horse, who
+liked the caress. The mother was too agitated to notice this by-play,
+but kept watch for her husband.
+
+The latter crept to within a foot or two of the top of the swell, when
+he quickly but cautiously raised his head and peered over at the Sioux.
+
+But a minute or two had passed since exchanging words with Bent Arm, but
+that brief period was improved as much by one party as the other. The
+Sioux leader's horse was in the stream to the depth of his knees, and
+the second Indian was in the act of entering, with the others close
+behind him.
+
+It was no time for hesitation, for that meant death. Starr shoved his
+Winchester in front, so that the muzzle projected over the swell, took
+deliberate aim at Bent Arm, and let fly.
+
+The distance was short, the rancher was an excellent marksman, and the
+bullet bored its way through the breast of the painted miscreant, who
+hardly knew what hurt him. With a screech, he threw up his arms, one
+grasping his gun, and toppled from the back of his pony, falling with a
+loud splash into the water, where for the moment he disappeared under
+the surface.
+
+George Starr was never cooler in his life. He was fighting not only for
+his own existence, but for those who were dearer to him than that
+existence. He knew the mercilessness of the red men near at hand, and he
+was equally merciless to them.
+
+This proceeding, as may be supposed, caused consternation for a moment
+among the advancing Sioux. The warrior immediately behind the leader
+stopped his pony abruptly, stared at the tuft of grass above which the
+faint puff of smoke was curling; and then, fearful of a second shot
+aimed at himself, whirled his animal about and sent him at one bound up
+the bank of the stream, where his companions, no less dismayed than he,
+threw themselves forward on the backs of their horses, to shield
+themselves from the aim of the rancher.
+
+It was at this crisis that George Starr committed two blunders which
+threatened the very doom he was trying to escape. One of those errors,
+however, did credit to his heart, if not to his head.
+
+Having opened the ball, he should have pushed things unmercifully. He
+was well aware of the venom of those red men, and, with his magazine
+rifle at command, he ought to have kept up an unremitting fire until he
+had tumbled several more to the ground, and driven the survivors beyond
+sight and the power of harm. It was his reluctance to perpetrate such
+slaughter, and the weak hope that he had already accomplished that
+result, that stayed his hand, at the moment when he should have steeled
+his feelings against sympathy. The other equally serious mistake was in
+staying where he was, prone on the ground, with a watchful eye on the
+marauders. He saw, when it was too late, that he should have dashed back
+to his pony, and leaped into the saddle and ridden with his wife, in all
+haste, for the refuge a mile away. Whether that would have proven a
+refuge or not was uncertain, but with the check given the Sioux he would
+have secured a start that promised everything.
+
+Night was approaching, and, in the gathering gloom, it ought not to have
+been difficult, with the advantage named, to throw his pursuers off the
+trail. But he tarried until the chance was irrevocably gone.
+
+The Sioux proved on more than one occasion, during their recent troubles
+in the West, that they were capable of daring, coolness, and heroism,
+and are quick to recover from a panic. When driven to bay they will
+fight like wild-cats, and the bleaching bones of many a brave soldier
+and officer bear eloquent witness to these qualities on their part.
+
+Instead of breaking into a wild flight beyond the sheltering bank on the
+other side of the stream, as the rancher expected them to do, they held
+their places on the backs of their ponies, and, leaning over so as to
+protect themselves, returned the fire of the white man.
+
+Looking across the narrow stream, they saw the slouch hat rising in the
+short grass, just behind the projecting muzzle of the Winchester, and a
+couple of them aimed and fired.
+
+But the rancher was too alert to be caught in that fashion. The moment
+he observed the action of the red men, he dropped his head behind the
+swell of earth, and the bullets clipped the grass and scattered the dirt
+harmlessly within a few inches of his crown.
+
+"Be careful!" called the anxious wife, who read the meaning of the
+flying soil; "they will hit you."
+
+"Have no fear of me," replied the husband, without looking around; "I am
+all right; keep back where you are and hold yourself ready to ride as
+fast as you can when I give the word."
+
+The rancher now did that which he should have done in the first place:
+he doffed his hat and laid it on the ground beside him. It was too
+conspicuous under the circumstances, and the Sioux were on the watch for
+it.
+
+Waiting several minutes after the firing of the two shots, he stealthily
+raised his head high enough to look through the grass in front. An
+astonishing sight rewarded him.
+
+In the brief interval that had passed after firing his rifle, the five
+Indians had dashed over the swell with their ponies where the latter
+were out of sight, and, flinging themselves on the ground, took
+precisely the same position as his own. They were now as safe from harm
+as himself. The duel was one of vigilance, caution, skill, and
+watchfulness, with the chances against the white man.
+
+The keen gaze of the latter, wandering over the surface of the stream,
+detected a dark object some distance to the right, as it showed
+indistinctly on the surface, disappearing, and then slowly coming to
+view again farther down. He required no one to tell him that it was the
+victim of his marksmanship, drifting out of sight, as many a one had
+done before, when trying to stay the advancing tide of the hated
+Caucasian.
+
+It struck the rancher that it would be well to let the Sioux know that
+he was still on guard. He caught glimpses here and there of the upper
+part of a repulsive face, with its long black hair and serpent-like
+eyes, on the alert to catch him unawares, and he fired at the nearest.
+
+The aim was good, but there was no reason to believe that he had
+inflicted harm, though he must have come nigh it.
+
+Strange it is that in the most trying moments, when it would seem that a
+trifling thought should be impossible on the part of a person, he
+sometimes gives way to a fancy that is of that nature. Recalling the
+story which he had read when a boy, and which is familiar to all our
+readers, the rancher now picked up his hat at his side and gently raised
+it to view, taking care to lower his own head beyond reach of harm.
+
+Instantly a couple of rifles cracked from the other side of the stream,
+and he smiled grimly when he saw the marks of the bullets in the crown.
+
+"They shoot well," he said, turning his face toward his wife and
+holding up the hat, "but they made a slight mistake that time."
+
+If the Sioux supposed that the last shots were fatal, they were likely
+to repeat their attempt to cross. That would never do, and, more with a
+view of letting them know no harm had resulted, than in the hope of
+inflicting injury, the rancher took aim at what seemed to be the
+forehead of one of the warriors, a short distance up stream, and fired.
+
+To his amazement, the wild screech left no doubt that the shot was
+fatal. The bullet had bored its way through the bronzed skull of the
+miscreant, and the force of assaulting Sioux was now reduced by
+one-third.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+FACING WESTWARD.
+
+
+The rancher was astonished beyond measure at the success of his shot. He
+had looked for nothing of the kind, but there could be no mistake as to
+the result; there was nothing to be gained by any pretence on the part
+of the Sioux. He certainly was as dead as dead could be.
+
+How he longed, like a certain famous general, for the coming of night! A
+little more darkness and he would flee with his wife and child under its
+friendly cover, and place a safe distance between them and their
+enemies, before the latter could learn of their flight.
+
+Several minutes passed without a demonstration on either side, but while
+matters stood thus, a new danger presented itself to the rancher. Why
+should the Sioux stay where they were? What was to prevent them moving
+farther up or down the bank, under the screen it afforded, and crossing
+unobserved? The winding course of the current gave every chance of doing
+this, and surely they were not likely to forget such an obvious course.
+
+The thought had hardly presented itself to the watcher when that very
+thing was attempted. The one who essayed it, however, forgot the caution
+he should have remembered.
+
+The slowly settling night and the falling snow may have misled him, but
+when the warrior rode his pony into the stream at a point considerably
+above, Starr observed him at the moment he began descending the bank.
+
+This was something that must be nipped in the bud. He shifted his
+position to where the grass gave slightly better protection, and sighted
+with the utmost care and deliberation.
+
+The shot was successful, but not precisely as he counted upon. The
+bullet, instead of striking the rider, pierced the brain of the pony,
+who reared frantically, plunged forward on his knees, and rolled upon
+his side, the Sioux dexterously saving himself by leaping away and
+scurrying behind the swell before the white man could fire a second
+time.
+
+"If they try it at that point, they will do so at some other," was the
+conclusion of the rancher, turning his gaze down stream. But the current
+made such a sharp bend near at hand, that his view was shortened, and
+the effort could be successfully made without detection on his part.
+
+An unexpected diversion occurred at this moment. The pack-horse, that
+had been contentedly cropping the grass near at hand and paying no heed
+to what was going on about him, wandered toward the bank, and was in
+imminent peril of being shot by the vigilant Sioux before he could be
+turned away.
+
+Mrs. Starr called sharply to him, and her voice caused the prostrate
+husband to look around. The pony at that moment was ascending the swell,
+to go down on the other side to the water, where he would have been in
+plain sight of the red men.
+
+Fearful that words would not check him, the rancher sprang up and,
+bending his head to save himself from his foes, ran the few steps
+necessary to reach the animal. Catching hold of his bridle, he jerked
+his head in the opposite direction, and, to teach him prudence,
+delivered a vigorous kick. The startled animal headed toward the west
+and broke into a gallop straight across the plain.
+
+"Let him go," said the impatient owner, looking after him: "he is too
+lazy to travel far, and we'll follow him soon."
+
+"Why not do so now?" asked his wife.
+
+"I fear that they are looking for such a move, and will be across before
+we can gain sufficient start."
+
+"But they may do so now."
+
+"Am I not watching them?" asked the husband, beginning to creep up the
+swell again, but pausing before he was high enough to discern the other
+side.
+
+"They may cross above or below, where you cannot see them," remarked the
+wife, giving utterance to the very fear that had troubled him some
+minutes before.
+
+"They may do so, but I have just defeated such an attempt, and they will
+probably wait a while before repeating it."
+
+"Then we can have no more favorable time to leave them than now."
+
+"Such would be the fact, if I only knew of a surety that they would wait
+a while."
+
+"I am afraid you are making a mistake, George."
+
+"It may be, but my judgment is against what you propose. Suppose that,
+at the moment of starting, they should appear on this side; they would
+run us down within a few hundred yards."
+
+"Are not our ponies as fleet as theirs?"
+
+"Probably; but with Dot to look after, you would have more than your
+hands full, and nothing could save us."
+
+"I could manage her very well; but do as you think best. We can only
+pray to Heaven to protect us all."
+
+Looking to the westward, the rancher saw the pack-pony just vanishing
+from sight in the gloom. Brief as was the time that he had left the
+Sioux without watching, he felt that it had been too long, and he now
+made his way up the swell until he could peer over at the other bank,
+where the red men were awaiting the very chance he gave them that
+moment.
+
+The narrowest escape of his life followed. Providentially, his first
+glance was directed at the precise spot where a crouching Sioux made a
+slight movement with his rifle, which gave the white man an instant's
+warning of his peril. He ducked his head, and had he not instinctively
+closed his eyes, would have been blinded by the dust and snow thrown
+against his face, as the leaden ball whizzed through the air, falling on
+the prairie a long distance away.
+
+In its flight it passed directly over the heads of the wife and child,
+who noticed the peculiar whistling sound a few feet above them. But they
+were as safe from such danger as if a mile away. The swell of the bank
+would not allow any missile to come nigh enough to harm them.
+
+"Don't be frightened," he said, with a reassuring smile, "they can't
+touch you as long as they are on the other side."
+
+"But how long will they stay there?" asked the wife, unable to repress
+her uneasiness over the tardiness of her husband.
+
+"Molly," said he, stirred by a sudden thought, "why not ride after the
+pack-horse?"
+
+"And leave you here?" was the astonished question.
+
+"Only for a few minutes; you will gain a good start, and it won't take
+me long to come up with you. I can put my pony on a run, and we shall
+gain invaluable time."
+
+But this was asking more than the obedient wife was willing to grant. No
+possible circumstances could justify her in deserting her husband. If he
+fell, she had no wish to escape.
+
+Dot, who had held her peace so long, now spoke:
+
+"Papa, don't ask us to leave you, 'cause we don't want to. I asked mamma
+to let me go to you, but she says no."
+
+Tears filled the eyes of the father, and his voice trembled as he said:
+
+"Very well, little one; stay with your mamma, and when the time comes
+for us to start we will go together."
+
+"But why don't you go now?" persisted the child, taking her cue,
+perhaps, from the words her mother had spoken.
+
+"I will not keep you waiting long," he assured her, more affected by the
+question of the child than by the arguments of her mother.
+
+Shifting the point of observation, the rancher raised his head just
+enough, cautiously parting the grass in front, to permit him to see the
+other bank, becoming more dimly visible in the falling snow and
+gathering gloom.
+
+He scanned the points whence had come the shots, but could discover
+nothing of his enemies. They might be there, but if so they were
+invisible, as could readily be the case; but, somehow or other, the
+conviction grew upon him that they were moving, and that to postpone his
+departure longer was to invite the worst fate imaginable for himself and
+dear ones.
+
+"We cannot leave too soon," he exclaimed, hastening to carry out the
+purpose that never ought to have been delayed so long.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+IN THE FRINGE OF THE WOODS.
+
+
+Fully realizing the mistake he had made in waiting, the rancher now did
+his best to improve the precious time at his disposal.
+
+His own pony had remained obediently near his companion, while the brush
+was going on between his master and the Sioux on the other side of the
+stream. The former hastily climbed into the saddle, and taking the reins
+in hand, looked at his wife.
+
+"Are you ready, Molly?"
+
+"I have been for a long time."
+
+"Come on; keep close to me."
+
+He spoke briskly to his horse, who broke into a swift gallop, which was
+imitated so promptly by the other that the couple advanced abreast
+toward the wooded section. It was no time for conversation, and the
+progress continued in silence.
+
+The snow was now falling thick and fast, and the gloom had deepened to
+that extent that they could not see objects more than a hundred feet
+away. Both wife and husband continually glanced behind them, for they
+were almost certain that the red men were in the act of crossing the
+stream at the moment the start was made, and could not be far to the
+rear.
+
+True, the fugitives had much in their favor. The keen eyes of the
+pursuers could detect their trail in the snowy ground, but not for long.
+By and by they might trace it only by dropping down from their ponies
+and using the sense of feeling. This would compel them to proceed
+carefully, and hold them well to the rear while the whites were using
+the occasion to the utmost, and continually gaining ground. Had the
+route to Fort Meade been level and unobstructed, they could have asked
+nothing more favorable. They would have forced their ponies to the
+utmost, and by the time the sun rose the vengeful red men would be
+placed hopelessly behind.
+
+The straining vision saw nothing but the darkness and snow in the
+direction of the stream already crossed, but they could never feel
+relieved of the dreadful fear until safely within the military post of
+the Black Hills.
+
+"Oh, papa, I see a horse!" was the startling exclamation of Dot, whom
+her mother had supposed, because of her stillness and immobility, to be
+asleep.
+
+"Where?" demanded her father, grasping his Winchester and looking
+affrightedly around.
+
+"Not there," replied the child with a laugh, working her arm out of its
+environments, and pointing ahead.
+
+A solitary animal was observed standing as motionless as a statue a
+short distance in advance. Apprehensive of some trap by the Indians, the
+father brought his pony to a sudden stop, his wife instantly imitating
+him, and both peered ahead at the strange form.
+
+They could see no rider, though there was something on the animal's
+back, which might have been a warrior lying flat, so as to protect his
+body from the rifle of the white man, or, what was equally probable, the
+owner was standing on the ground hidden by the horse, and awaiting his
+chance to send in a fatal shot.
+
+"What's the matter?" asked Dot, puzzled by the action of her parents.
+
+"S-h! We are afraid a bad Indian is there."
+
+"Why, can't you see that's Jerry?"
+
+Jerry was the name of the pack pony.
+
+"Of course it is. Why didn't we think of it?" asked the father the next
+moment, relieved beyond measure by the discovery.
+
+Jerry seemed to be of the opinion that it was the place of his friends
+to make the advances, for he did not stir until they rode up beside him.
+
+The lazy fellow was found with his load intact. He had been given all
+the time he could ask for his journey to this point, and evidently was a
+little sulky over the treatment received at the hands, or rather the
+foot, of his master, for his head had to be jerked several times before
+he faced about, and then it required more vigorous treatment to force
+him into a lazy gallop.
+
+Luckily, the greater part of the plain had been crossed before this
+reunion took place, and the party had not gone far when the rancher
+allowed the animals to drop to a walk. In front loomed a dark mass,
+which he recognized as the fringe of the wood observed from the bank of
+the stream behind them. Through this it was necessary to thread their
+way with extreme care, owing to the darkness and their unfamiliarity
+with the ground.
+
+Upon reaching the edge of the wood the fugitives came to a stand-still.
+
+Slipping from his saddle, the rancher brushed away the snow at his feet
+and pressed his ear against the ground.
+
+"I can hear nothing of them," he remarked, resuming the upright posture;
+"I am quite hopeful that that party will molest us no more."
+
+"It won't do to count on it," were the wise words of his wife.
+
+"I think you had better dismount and lead your pony," said the rancher;
+"we can mount again when through the wood; there will be less danger
+from the trees and limbs, and you and Dot must be cramped from sitting
+so long."
+
+He helped them to the ground. It was a relief indeed to both, for they
+had kept their places on the back of the horse for a number of hours.
+Dot yawned, stretched her limbs, and felt as though nothing would
+delight her so much as a frolic in the snow. The thoughtful mother had
+provided her not only with thick, strong shoes, but with heavy
+stockings, leggings, and warm clothing, with which she was well
+protected against the storm that was impending when they left their
+home.
+
+Nothing could have better shown the childish innocence of her nature
+than her action in slyly removing her mittens, stooping down, packing a
+wad of snow with her hands and flinging it against her father's face,
+with a merry laugh.
+
+"Gracious, Dot! how you startled me!" he said, looking around at her.
+
+"Did I hurt you?"
+
+"No; but don't speak or laugh so loud, for some of the bad Indians may
+be near."
+
+"I forgot about that, but I'm going to hit Jerry, for he is so lazy he
+needs it."
+
+And the indolent animal received a tiny whack from the snowy missile
+projected by the chubby hand of the child. He seemed to think, however,
+that it was no more than a snowflake, for he did not give even an extra
+wink of the eye.
+
+The delay was only momentary, when the rancher, with one hand grasping
+the bridle-rein and the other parting the limbs and bushes in front,
+began groping his way through the growth of timber, where it was so dark
+that everyone's eyes were practically useless.
+
+Directly behind the horse walked Dot, with her mother next, leading her
+pony, and the pack-horse bringing up the rear.
+
+Ten minutes of this cautious progress and the leader checked himself
+with an impatient expression.
+
+"What is it?" called the wife, in a guarded voice.
+
+"Another stream of water."
+
+"Do you know anything about it?"
+
+"Nothing; I came near tumbling into it, with Dick on top of me; if he
+hadn't scented it first I would have done so."
+
+"What is to be done?" asked Mrs. Starr, as grievously disappointed as
+her husband.
+
+"I'm blessed if I know; it may be half a mile deep and ten miles across,
+with a perpendicular bluff a thousand feet high on the other side."
+
+Leaving her pony, the wife took the hand of Dot and joined him where he
+had halted on the edge of the unknown stream.
+
+"I've made up my mind that we shall do one thing right away," he
+remarked decisively.
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"Eat supper while we have the chance; Jerry is on hand with the
+provisions, and he may be somewhere else in the morning."
+
+"I'm glad of that," said the happy Dot, "for I'm awfuller hungry than I
+ever was in all my life."
+
+"Then supper it is."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+TURNED BACK.
+
+
+It was a wise proceeding on the part of the rancher. The opportunity to
+make a substantial repast was theirs, and as he had remarked, there was
+no certainty when it would come again.
+
+The bag in which the provisions were placed was taken from the back of
+Jerry, and the father helped his child and wife, who ate until they were
+fully satisfied. He dipped up water with Dot's small tin cup from the
+stream in front, and with it their thirst was slaked.
+
+"Molly," he suggested, "you can carry one or two of the sandwiches
+without inconvenience."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Let us both do so; we may lose Jerry, and if so, they will come in
+handy."
+
+"I have a couple, too," said Dot.
+
+"It isn't best that you should burden yourself with them."
+
+"But I can't help it, papa."
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"They're inside of me," and the parents, even in their great dread,
+smiled at the odd conceit of the little one, who chuckled softly to
+think how she had "fooled" her papa.
+
+The delay was brief. The rancher knew that it was impossible to reach
+Fort Meade without crossing the stream before them, with the probability
+that still others awaited them at no great distance. It can be
+understood with what depth of dread he contemplated swimming the animals
+over, with the certainty of the saturation of all their garments, on
+this winter night, and the cold steadily increasing.
+
+In short, it meant perishing, unless a fire was kindled, in which case,
+a delay would be necessitated that would throw away all the advantage
+secured by flight. He was determined not to do it, unless actually
+driven to it as a last resource.
+
+He did not forget that he was now where there was an abundance of
+material with which a raft could be constructed that would obviate this
+exposure, but the building of such a rude craft, under the
+circumstances, was next to impossible. He had no implement except his
+pocket knife, and might grope about in the darkness for hours without
+getting together enough timber to float them to the other side.
+
+Obviously one of two things must be done--try to cross where they were
+or follow the bank down until a fording place could be found, and
+repeated trials were likely to be necessary before success was
+obtainable.
+
+Singular it is that so often out of the mouths of babes are heard the
+words of wisdom.
+
+The rancher had risen to his feet, and was in the act of mounting his
+pony to enter the water, when Dot spoke:
+
+"Why don't you let Dick go ahead and you ride behind on Sally?"
+
+"Well, I declare!" exclaimed the father admiringly; "I begin to believe
+that if we reach the fort, it will be through your guidance, my precious
+little one," and, stooping over, he kissed her cheek.
+
+"Strange that we did not think of that," remarked the mother. "Dot is
+wise beyond her years."
+
+The plan was adopted at once.
+
+The mare ridden by the mother and child, and the horse of the father,
+were so intelligent that no risk was involved in the essay, which
+insured against the immersion held in such natural dread.
+
+The saddle and trappings were removed from Dick, while the rancher
+mounted upon the side-saddle belonging to his wife. Then the horse was
+ordered to enter the water, and, with some hesitation, he obeyed, his
+owner being but a step or two behind on the mare.
+
+The gloom was so deep that the hearing, and not the sight, must be
+depended upon. That, however, was reliable when nothing was likely to
+occur to divert it from its duty.
+
+The stream was no more than fairly entered when the rancher made two
+unwelcome discoveries: The current was much stronger than he had
+anticipated, and the water deepened rapidly. Ten feet from shore it
+touched the body of the mare.
+
+Inasmuch, however, as Dick was still walking, there was hope that the
+depth might increase no more, or, at most, not to a dangerous extent.
+
+Mr. Starr could not see his own horse, but he plainly heard him as he
+advanced cautiously, feeling his way, and showing by his sniffing that
+the task was anything but pleasant to him. Not knowing the width of the
+stream, it was impossible to tell in what portion of it they were: but
+he was already listening for the sounds which would show that his animal
+was climbing out on the other side, when the very thing he feared took
+place.
+
+A loud splash, followed by a peculiar rustling noise, showed that Dick
+was swimming.
+
+At the same moment the mare sank so deeply that, had not the rider
+thrown his feet backward along her spine, with his body extended over
+the saddle and her neck, he would have been saturated to the knees. As
+it was, Sally was within a hair of being carried off her feet by the
+force of the current.
+
+The rancher drew her head around, and, after a sharp struggle, she held
+her own, and began laboring back to the shore she had left; putting
+forth such vigor that it was plain the task was far more agreeable than
+the one upon which she first ventured.
+
+Meanwhile, Dick was swimming powerfully for the farther bank, and before
+his owner could think of calling to him, owing to his own flurry, he
+heard his hoofs stamp the hard earth. True, he had landed, but that
+brief space of deep water was as bad as if its width were ten times as
+great; it could not be passed without the saturation of the garments of
+all, and that, as has been said, was not to be endured.
+
+Before the mare could return Mr. Starr called to his pony, and the
+animal promptly obeyed, emerging only a minute after the mare from the
+point where he had entered.
+
+"It's no use," he said to his waiting wife and little one; "there is one
+place where the horses must swim."
+
+"Did you get wet, papa?" enquired Dot, solicitous for his welfare.
+
+"No; but I came mighty near it."
+
+"Then I suppose we must follow down the stream, and try it elsewhere,"
+said the wife.
+
+"Yes, with the discouraging fact that we are likely to pass a dozen
+fordable points, and strike a place that is deeper than anywhere else."
+
+The saddles were readjusted, and the move made without delay. Since it
+was hard to thread their way through the wood, which lined the stream
+only a short distance from the water, they withdrew from it to the
+prairie, where travelling was easier.
+
+Reaching the open plain, but keeping close to the margin of the timber,
+from which, fortunately, they had emerged at a point considerably
+removed from that of the entrance, the rancher repeated the precaution
+he had used before.
+
+"Wait a moment," he said, in a low voice.
+
+Once more the snow was brushed aside at his feet and the ear pressed
+against the ground.
+
+To his dismay he heard the tramp of horses' hoofs on the hard earth.
+
+"They are near at hand!" he said, in a startled whisper; "we must get
+away as quickly as we can."
+
+He hastily helped his wife and little one on the back of the mare,
+mounted his own animal, and, with the pack-horse at the rear, moved
+along the timber on a rapid walk, continually peering off in the gloom,
+as though it was possible for him to see the Sioux, who certainly were
+at no great distance.
+
+One fear troubled him: Suppose they should resort to the same artifice
+as he, and one of them appeal to the earth for evidence. He would be
+equally quick to discover the proximity of the fugitives, and with his
+sense of hearing trained to the finest point by many years' exercise,
+would locate the whites with unerring precision.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+MISSING.
+
+
+But there was no avoiding the risk. In silence the little party threaded
+their way along the margin of the prairie, listening for the sounds they
+dreaded to hear, and peering through the gloom for the forms they held
+in unspeakable fear. Not until they had progressed several hundred yards
+can it be said that the rancher breathed freely. Then he checked his
+pony, and those behind him did the same.
+
+The next instant he was out of the saddle, with his ear once more
+against the cold earth.
+
+Not the slightest sound reached him through this better conductor. If
+the Sioux horsemen were moving, they were too far off for the fact to be
+known. When first heard, they must have been close to the wood, on
+reaching which they undoubtedly dismounted and advanced on foot.
+
+In that event, they must detect the footprints of the ponies in advance,
+and with their skill in trailing were certain to learn of the course
+taken by the whites. Then the pursuit would be resumed in earnest, and
+the perils would increase.
+
+One possible remedy suggested itself, though there was no certainty of
+its success. The snow was now falling so fast that it promised to
+obliterate the footprints to that extent that they could not be followed
+in the dark. As it was, even the lynx eyes of the Sioux could avail them
+nothing. One of their number must be continually dismounting and using
+his hands to make sure they were not off the track. A half hour or more
+interval, and this resource would be taken from them by the descending
+snow.
+
+It was this belief which caused the rancher to ride Dick among the
+trees, where he and the rest dismounted. Then they groped forward with
+no little difficulty for some rods and halted.
+
+"Be careful," he said, speaking particularly to Dot, "and do not make
+any noise, for I believe those bad Indians are not far off, and they
+are looking for us."
+
+Dot showed her obedience by not venturing to whisper.
+
+It was not Mr. Starr's purpose to lose time by staying where they were.
+Accordingly, after threading their way for some distance farther, he
+emerged once more on the plain, and, as they remounted, rode straight
+away from the timber.
+
+The object of this stratagem can be readily understood. The pursuing
+Sioux, after discovering that the trail of the fugitives led along the
+margin of the wood, were likely to override it for some way, before
+learning the fact. Then they would turn about and hunt until they found
+it again. The fact that at that point it entered the timber must cause
+another delay, where the difficulty of tracing the whites would be
+greatly increased. By the time they came back again to the open plain,
+the fall of snow was likely to render further pursuit almost, if not
+quite, impossible.
+
+This was the theory which guided the rancher's actions, though he was
+too wise to lose sight of the probability of serious miscalculations on
+his part. There was another danger, however, of which he failed to
+think, but which was not long in manifesting itself.
+
+By shifting his course so often, and leaving the stream altogether, he
+was sure to lose his bearings in the darkness. Instead of following the
+most direct route to Fort Meade, he was liable to turn back on his old
+trail, with the result that when the sun rose in the morning he would be
+in the vicinity of his home, with the environing perils more threatening
+than ever.
+
+Beyond all question this would have been the result had not nature come
+to his help. He was on the point of turning his pony's head around, to
+re-enter the timber he had left, when he discovered to his astonishment
+that he had already reached it. There were the trees directly in front,
+with the nose of Dick almost touching a projecting limb.
+
+He was at a loss to understand it until his wife suggested that the
+winding course of the stream was responsible for the situation. Even
+then he hardly believed until investigation convinced him that it was
+the same swift current flowing in front.
+
+"We unconsciously strayed from a direct course, and must have been going
+at right angles to the correct one."
+
+"There is no saying, George; only I advise you not to make too many
+experiments in the darkness. Several hours have passed since night came,
+and we are not making much progress toward the fort."
+
+"You are quite right," was the nervous response, "but safety seemed to
+demand it. How are you standing it, Dot?"
+
+The child made no answer.
+
+"She is asleep," whispered the mother.
+
+"I hope that it may last until morning. If you are tired of holding her
+in your arms I will take her."
+
+"When I grow weary of that," was the significant reply of the wife, "I
+will let you know."
+
+Inasmuch as the continually obtruding stream must be crossed, and the
+precious hours were fast passing, the rancher gave every energy to
+surmounting the difficulty.
+
+As he led the way once more to the edge of the water, he asked himself
+whether the wisest course was not to construct a raft. The work promised
+to be so difficult, however, that he would have abandoned the thought
+had he not come upon a heavy log, lying half submerged at the very spot
+where he struck the water.
+
+"This will be of great help," he said to his wife.
+
+Leaning his Winchester against the nearest tree, he drew out his rubber
+safe and struck a match. The appearance of the log was encouraging, and
+after some lifting and tugging he succeeded in rolling it into the
+stream.
+
+That ended the matter. To his chagrin, the water-soaked wood sank like
+so much mud.
+
+"We won't experiment any longer," concluded the disappointed rancher;
+"but try the same thing as before."
+
+Dick was stripped again and put in the lead, with his master following
+on the back of the mare. Mrs. Starr, being helped to the ground, stood
+with the sleeping Dot in her arms, awaiting the return of her husband
+from his disagreeable experiment.
+
+"Heaven grant that this maybe the right place," was his prayer, as he
+entered upon the second essay; "if we are turned back again I shall be
+in despair."
+
+His interest was intensified, for he was impressed with the belief that
+this was to be the decisive and final test.
+
+As if Dick, too, felt the seriousness of the situation, he stepped
+resolutely forward, bracing himself against the strong current which was
+heard washing about his limbs. It seemed to the anxious rancher that he
+could discern the figure of his pony as he led the way through the
+gloom, only a short distance in advance of the mare.
+
+When certain that they were fully half-way across, his heart began to
+beat with hope at finding that the water did not touch the stirrup in
+which one foot rested. It was plain also that the leading horse was
+still firmly wading.
+
+With a relief which possibly may be imagined, the horseman heard Dick
+step out on the bank a few minutes later. He had waded the whole
+distance, thus proving that the stream was easily fordable at that
+point.
+
+The delighted rancher could hardly repress a cheer. But for his fear
+that the Sioux might be in the vicinity, he would have announced the
+joyous fact to his wife.
+
+"Perhaps, however, her sharp ears have told her the truth," was his
+thought, as he wheeled the mare about and started to return, leaving
+Dick to follow him, as he would be needed to help the party over.
+
+With never a thought of danger, the animal was forced hastily through
+the water, coming out a few paces below where she had entered it.
+
+"We are all right," he called; "we will be over in a jiffy."
+
+To his astonishment there was no response. He pronounced his wife's
+name, but still no reply came. Then he moved up and down the bank,
+stirred by an awful fear, but heard and found her not.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+A THIEF OF THE NIGHT.
+
+
+When the rancher entered the current with the two ponies, the interest
+of the wife, who remained behind with little Dot, was centred wholly in
+his effort to ford the stream. She stood on the very margin of the
+water, where, though unable to see the form of the rider or either of
+the animals, she could hear the sound made by them in passing through
+the current.
+
+In this position, the pack-pony remained a few steps behind her and
+about half-way to the open plain. The child, who had been somewhat
+disturbed by the shifting about of herself, had fallen asleep again and
+rested motionless in her arms, with her form nestling in the protecting
+blanket.
+
+Everything was silent except the slight noise caused by the animals in
+the water. In this position, with her nerves strung to the highest
+point, and her faculties absorbed in the single one of hearing, she
+caught a suspicious sound immediately behind her. It was as if Jerry was
+moving from the spot where he had been left.
+
+Fearful of his going astray, her lips parted to speak, when,
+fortunately, she held her peace. It might be that some person was the
+cause of his action.
+
+With the purpose of learning the truth, she stole through the timber
+toward the spot where he was standing a few minutes before. She was so
+close behind him, and moved so much faster, that she reached the open
+plain almost on his heels. Despite the gloom, she could make out his
+figure; and her feelings may be imagined when she distinguished the form
+of a Sioux warrior leading him.
+
+Not only that, but the thief paused as soon as the open prairie was
+reached and lightly vaulted upon his back, beside the load already
+resting there. Then he hammered his heels against his ribs and the lazy
+beast rose to a jogging trot, immediately disappearing in the snow and
+darkness.
+
+The wife, as may be supposed, was dumfounded and uncertain what to do,
+if indeed she could do anything. At the moment when it looked as if all
+danger was past, one of their enemies had unexpectedly stolen their
+pack-pony.
+
+Where were the rest? Why did they content themselves with this simple
+act, when they might have done a thousandfold worse? How soon would the
+rest be on the spot? Was there no hope now of escape for the miserable
+fugitives?
+
+These and similar thoughts were passing through her mind, when she heard
+her husband calling to her in a cautious voice. Not daring to reply,
+through fear of attracting the attention of their enemies, she threaded
+her way through the timber, and reached his side at the moment his heart
+was filled with despair at the belief that something frightful had taken
+place.
+
+The joy of the rancher, on clasping his beloved wife once more in his
+arms, caused him to forget everything else for the moment, but she
+quickly made known the startling incident that had occurred.
+
+"Heavens!" he muttered, "they have traced us after all, but where are
+the rest?"
+
+"They must be near," she replied, laying her hand on his arm. "Listen!"
+
+They did so, but heard nothing more.
+
+"We must cross at once," he whispered.
+
+No time was lost in following the prudent suggestion. The wife was
+helped upon the back of the mare, Dot still remaining asleep, and the
+husband, mounted on Dick, placed himself in front.
+
+"There is only one place, and that lasts but for a few steps, where you
+will have to raise your foot to protect it from the water," he said, as
+they were about to enter the stream.
+
+"I will remember," she nervously replied; "don't wait."
+
+Once again the faithful pony entered the water, the mare so close behind
+that husband and wife could have touched each other, and the fording of
+the current began.
+
+The rancher did not forget that it was impossible in the darkness to
+follow precisely his own course. Having emerged at a different point
+from where he entered, he was in reality following a different course,
+which might be the same as if it were a half mile farther up or down
+stream.
+
+This proved to be the case, though the disappointment was of an
+agreeable nature, for the ponies struck a shallower part than that which
+was first forded. At no portion did the water do more than barely touch
+the bodies of the animals, and then only for a few steps. Once the mare
+slipped on a smooth stone, and came within a hair of unseating her
+rider, but the latter's skill enabled her to retain her seat, and a few
+minutes later the two came out on the other side, without a drop of
+moisture on their garments.
+
+"Thank Heaven!" was the fervent ejaculation of the husband as the fact
+was accomplished. "It is better than I expected."
+
+"But don't forget that they may have done the same thing, and perhaps
+are awaiting us near at hand."
+
+"You may be right, Molly, and we cannot be too careful."
+
+The words were barely uttered when the splashing of water behind them
+left no doubt that the Sioux were again on their trail.
+
+"Quick!" whispered the husband; "dismount; you can't ride the mare among
+the trees; she will follow, and don't fail to keep close behind Dick."
+
+It was important, above all things, to leave the spot before the red men
+landed. Otherwise, they would hear the horses and locate them without
+difficulty.
+
+A disappointment awaited our friends. It will be remembered that the
+fringe of timber on the other side was quite narrow, and they naturally
+supposed it corresponded on the farther shore. But after threading their
+way for double the distance, they were surprised to find no evidence of
+the open plain beyond.
+
+The rancher dared not continue farther while there was reason to fear
+their pursuers were near. The brushing of the branches against the
+bodies of the animals and the noise of their hoofs could be detected in
+the silence, and was sure to betray the fugitives to any Sioux within a
+hundred yards.
+
+The wife understood why the halt was made. Her husband stole back and
+placed himself by her side.
+
+"You must be wearied with carrying Dot so long," he said sympathizingly.
+
+"It is quite a trial," she replied, in the same guarded voice, "but
+there is no help for it, and I beg you to give the matter no thought."
+
+"Let me take her a while."
+
+"No, that will not do; you must hold your gun ready for instant use, and
+you could not do so with her in your arms. It is not so hard when we are
+sitting on the mare, for it is easy to arrange it so that she supports
+most of her weight."
+
+"You are a good, brave woman, Molly, and deserve to be saved."
+
+"Sh!" she admonished; "I hear something."
+
+He knew she was right, for he caught the sound at the same moment.
+Someone was stealing through the wood near them. It was a person, beyond
+question, for a horse would have made more noise, and the sounds of his
+hoofs would have been more distinct than anything else. That which, fell
+upon their ears was the occasional crackling of a twig, and the brushing
+aside of the obtruding limbs. No matter with what care an Indian warrior
+threaded his way through the timber in this dense gloom, he could not
+avoid such slight evidences of his movements--so slight, indeed, that
+but for the oppressive stillness and the strained hearing of the husband
+and wife they would not have detected them.
+
+Confident that the red man could not trace them in the gloom, even
+though so dangerously near, the dread now was that the ponies would
+betray them. Those watchful animals often prove the most valuable allies
+of the fleeing fugitive, for they possess the power of discovering
+impending danger before it can become known to their masters. But when
+they make such discovery they are apt to announce it by a stamp of the
+hoof or with a sniffing of the nostrils, which, while serving the master
+well, has the disadvantage also of apprising the enemy that his approach
+has become known.
+
+Stealing from his position beside his wife, the rancher stepped to the
+mare and passed his hand reassuringly over her mouth, doing the same
+with his own pony. This action was meant as a command for them to hold
+their peace, though whether it was understood to the extent that it
+would be obeyed, remains to be seen.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+THROUGH THE WOOD.
+
+
+Even in that trying moment, Starr could not help reflecting upon the
+peculiar turn matters had taken. He failed to understand the action of
+the solitary Sioux on the other side, who had contented himself with the
+simple theft of the pack-pony, when he might have done tenfold more
+injury to the fugitives.
+
+And now, judging from the slight sounds that reached him, there was
+another single warrior prowling through the wood, instead of several. It
+might be, however, that his companions were near, awaiting the result of
+his reconnoissance, and would descend upon the whites the instant the
+way opened.
+
+But these speculations were cut short by the alarming discovery that
+some strange fatality was bringing the scout fearfully close to where
+the husband and wife were standing beside their animals, hardly daring
+to speak in the most guarded whispers.
+
+It must have been that the ponies understood what was expected from
+them, for they gave not the least sound. There was not a stamp of a
+hoof, and their breathing was as gentle as an infant's. So long as they
+remained mute it would seem that the peril must pass by.
+
+And so it ought to have done, for assuredly the Indian could have gained
+no clew to the whereabouts of the fugitives from them or their animals.
+
+But all the same, George Starr was not long in making the uncomfortable
+discovery that the red man was at his elbow, and the crisis was upon
+him.
+
+The rancher knew where the miscreant was, and he determined to chance
+it. He silently clubbed his Winchester, brought it back over his left
+shoulder, and, concentrating his utmost strength in his arms, brought
+down the butt of this weapon with resistless force.
+
+It could not have been better aimed had the sun been shining. It crashed
+on the crown of the unsuspecting Sioux, who sank silently to the earth,
+and it is enough to say that the "subsequent proceedings interested him
+no more."
+
+"Sh!" whispered the husband; "there may be others near us; do you hear
+anything?"
+
+Neither could catch any suspicious noise, and he concluded it was best
+to move on. If they should remain where they were when daylight came,
+all hope would be gone. The situation would be hardly improved if they
+stayed any longer in the gloom, after what had taken place.
+
+Making known his purpose to his wife, he placed himself at the head of
+Dick, and holding his bit, started forward. The mare followed the moment
+she heard what was going on, and the mother with her child walked
+between.
+
+But less than twenty steps were taken, when the leader paused abruptly,
+alarmed by an altogether unexpected discovery. The twinkle of a light
+appeared among the trees in front, so directly in their path that, had
+they continued straight forward, they would have stepped into the blaze.
+
+This was cause for astonishment, and suggested that the fugitives had
+struck a place where other Sioux had gathered, probably a number who
+knew nothing of what had taken place a short time before. If this were
+true, there ought not to be much difficulty in working past them.
+
+Still, critical as was the situation, he felt that the chance to learn
+something ought not to be thrown away. Whispering to his wife to remain
+where she was, he left her and stole forward until he could gain sight
+of the blaze and those surrounding it.
+
+There was the fire made by a number of sticks heaped against the trunk
+of a tree, and burning vigorously, but to his surprise, not an Indian
+was in sight. How many had been gathered there, how long since they had
+left, whether they would return, and if so, how soon? All these were
+questions that must be left to some other time before even attempting to
+guess the answers.
+
+He waited some minutes, thinking possibly the missing warriors would
+return, but not one showed up, and he felt it would not do to tarry
+longer. A goodly portion of the night had already passed, and Fort Meade
+was still a long distance away, with a dangerous stretch of country to
+pass.
+
+It seemed to the husband and wife that they hardly breathed, as they
+moved through the wood. He held his pony by the rein with his left hand,
+while he used the right, grasping the Winchester, to open the way in
+front. They could do nothing more, listening meanwhile for the sounds of
+danger which they expected to hear every moment.
+
+But lo! while they were advancing in this guarded manner, they suddenly
+came out of the wood and into the open country again.
+
+The husband uttered another exclamation of thankfulness, and checked the
+animals.
+
+"Now it looks as if we had a chance to accomplish something," he said,
+"and I am sure you are in need of rest."
+
+"I am somewhat weary, but I can stand a great deal more, George; give no
+thought to me, but think only of the peril from which we must escape
+this night or never."
+
+He gently took the little Dot, swathed as she was in the heavy blanket,
+and held her while his wife remounted the mare, without help. We have
+said she was an excellent horsewoman, as she had proved before this
+eventful night.
+
+"Now," said he, when she was firmly seated and extended her arms to take
+the child, "I am going to use my authority as a husband over you."
+
+"Have I not always been an obedient wife?" she asked, with mock
+humility.
+
+"No man was ever blessed with a better helpmate," was the reply.
+
+"I await your commands, my lord."
+
+Instead of passing the child to her, he reached up his rifle.
+
+"What is the meaning of that?" she asked wonderingly.
+
+"Lay it across the saddle in front, where its weight will not discommode
+you. I shall carry Dot."
+
+"But think, George, of the risk it involves. I assure you that it will
+be no task for me to take care of her now that I am in the saddle
+again."
+
+"All discussion is ended," he replied, with a severity which she well
+knew was assumed, though she did not dispute him. She accepted the
+weapon and placed it in position as he directed. Then supporting the
+precious child with one arm, he mounted his pony and placed himself by
+her side.
+
+"We will ride abreast; if any emergency calls for the use of my gun, I
+can pass Dot to you in an instant; you must remember too, that I have a
+revolver, which may serve me better in any sudden peril."
+
+"I obey," she replied, "but you will not deny me the right to think you
+are committing a mistake; since, however, it is actuated by love, I
+appreciate it."
+
+"I assure you," he said with deep feeling, "that aside from the
+consideration due you, I am acting for the best. I wish you, as long as
+possible, to remain at my side. We have made so many turnings and
+changes in our course that I have lost all idea of the points of the
+compass; I do not know whether we are going toward Fort Meade or
+straying off to the right or left, with the probability that in the
+morning we may be far out of the way. Help me to keep our bearings."
+
+And husband and wife rode out on the prairie in the darkness and falling
+snow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+NIGHT AND MORNING.
+
+
+By this time the snow lay to the depth of several inches on the earth.
+It was still falling, and the cold was increasing. The flakes were
+slighter, and there were fewer of them. His knowledge of the weather
+told the rancher that the fall would cease after a while, with a still
+further lowering of the temperature. Thanks, however, to the
+thoughtfulness of his wife more than himself, they were so plentifully
+provided with blankets and extra garments that they were not likely to
+suffer any inconvenience from that cause.
+
+Fortunately for them and greatly to their relief, the stretch of prairie
+which they had struck continued comparatively level. Occasionally they
+ascended a slight elevation or rode down a declivity, but in no case for
+more than two hours was either so steep that the ponies changed their
+gait from the easy swinging canter to a walk.
+
+Once, after riding down a slight decline, they struck another stream,
+but it was little more than a brook, so strait that a dozen steps
+brought them out on the other side with little more than the wetting of
+their animals' hoofs.
+
+They rode side by side, for the mare was as fleet and enduring as the
+horse. Now and then they glanced back, but saw nothing to cause alarm,
+and hope became stronger than before.
+
+"We are doing remarkably well," said the husband, breaking the silence
+for the first time in a half hour.
+
+"Yes," was the thoughtful reply; "we must have travelled a good many
+miles since the last start, and there is only one danger that troubles
+me."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"The probability--nay, the almost certainty--that we are not journeying
+toward the fort."
+
+"I have thought much of that," replied the husband, giving voice to a
+misgiving that had disturbed him more than he was willing to admit; "it
+is as you say, that the chances are against our proceeding in a direct
+line, but it is equally true that the general course is right."
+
+"How can you know that?"
+
+"Because we have crossed two streams that were in our path, and they
+remain behind us."
+
+"But," reminded the thoughtful wife, "you forget that those same streams
+are very winding in their course. If they followed a direct line, we
+could ask no more proof that we are on the right track."
+
+"True, but it cannot be that they take such a course that we are
+travelling toward the ranch again."
+
+"Hardly as bad as that, but if we are riding at right angles in either
+direction, we shall be in a sad plight when the morning comes. The sun
+will take from us all chance of dodging the Sioux so narrowly as we have
+done more than once since leaving home."
+
+"We must not forget the peril of which you speak; at such times I trust
+much to the instinct of the animals."
+
+"And would not that, in the present case, lead them to go toward rather
+than from home?"
+
+"I'm blessed if I thought of that!"
+
+The rancher was filled with dismay for the moment, and brought Dick down
+to a walk.
+
+"No," he added the next moment, striking him into a gallop again, "if
+they were left to themselves they would try to make their way to the
+ranch, but they have been under too much guidance, and have been forced
+to do too many disagreeable things, for them to attempt that. I am sure
+we are nearing Fort Meade."
+
+"I trust so," was the response of the wife; which remark did anything
+but add to the hopefulness of her husband.
+
+The animals now began to show signs of fatigue. The snow balled under
+their hoofs, causing a peculiar jolting to the riders, when it became so
+big that the weight broke it or made their feet slip off, when new
+gatherings commenced immediately to form.
+
+After being forced to a canter the horses would drop of their own accord
+to a walk, and soon they were left to continue at their own gait.
+
+"How far, Molly, do you think we have come?" asked the rancher.
+
+"It must be fifteen miles, and possibly more; if it were in a direct
+line, adding what we made before crossing the last stream, it would be
+safe to wait until morning."
+
+Again the wife gave expression to the thought that was in her husband's
+mind. He had been asking himself for the last half hour whether it would
+not be wise to come to a halt for daylight. The rest thus secured to the
+animals would enable them to do much better, when the right course could
+be determined with absolute certainty, and a few hours' brisk riding
+ought to take them beyond all fear of their harassing enemies.
+
+There remained the haunting fear of their being on the wrong course. If
+daylight found them little nearer the fort than when at the ranch, their
+situation would be most critical. But all speculation on that important
+matter must remain such until the truth could be learned.
+
+One reason why the rancher did not propose a halt before it was hinted
+at by his wife, was that no suitable place presented itself. It would
+not do to camp in the open plain, where there was no shelter for them or
+their animals; they must keep on until the ground changed.
+
+That change came sooner than they anticipated. The ponies were plodding
+forward with their loads, when, before either of the riders suspected
+it, they were on the edge of another growth of timber, which promised
+the very thing they sought.
+
+"Here we are!" said Mr. Starr, "and I think we can say that the journey
+will be suspended until daylight."
+
+"If there is another stream, George, I shall feel safer if we place
+ourselves on the other side before we halt for the rest of the night."
+
+"I don't view another fording with much pleasure, but we can soon find
+out how it is."
+
+The character of this timber differed from that which they had already
+passed, in that it abounded with so many bowlders and rocks that, after
+penetrating it a short way, it became too dangerous for the ponies to
+persevere. They were liable at any moment to break a limb.
+
+"Remain here a few minutes while I investigate," said the rancher,
+passing the sleeping Dot to his wife.
+
+He penetrated more than a hundred yards, without coming upon any water.
+He did not go farther, for he was satisfied there was none near them.
+The ground not only grew more rocky and precipitous as he advanced, but
+steadily rose, so as to show that he was at the base of a ridge over
+which it was a difficult matter to make their way. It would have been
+folly to try it in the darkness, and on his return he sought some spot
+favorable for going into camp.
+
+He was more successful than he expected. A mass of rocks was found,
+whose tops projected sufficiently to afford a fair shelter. The snow,
+slanting from the other direction, left a comparatively large surface
+bare. Here the ponies were drawn to one side and their trappings
+removed. There were not enough spare blankets to cover them as the
+fugitives wished to do, but they were too tough to suffer much.
+
+Then the blankets were distributed, and so placed that when the husband
+and wife huddled together against the base of the rocks, they, as well
+as Dot, were quite comfortable. The rancher might have gathered wood and
+started a fire, but it was not needed, and they feared the consequences
+of such a proceeding. They were so worn out with the trials and toil of
+the night, that they soon sank into a deep slumber which lasted till
+morning. Then, upon awaking, the first act of the rancher was to
+ascertain his bearings, so far as it was possible to do so.
+
+The result was the disheartening conviction that they were no nearer
+Fort Meade than when they forded the last stream early on the preceding
+night.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+A STARTLING SURPRISE.
+
+
+We must not forget that young Warren Starr and Tim Brophy have an
+important part to play in the incidents we have set out to relate.
+
+We left them in the wooded rocky section, where they had spent the night
+together in the rude shelter erected a year before when on their hunting
+excursions. They were awakened by the frenzied cry of the young
+Irishman's horse, and appeared on the scene just in time to save the
+pony from a grizzly bear, who made things exceedingly lively for the
+young gentlemen themselves.
+
+But relieved of their peril, they sat down like sensible persons to make
+their morning meal from the lunch brought thither by Tim. They ate
+heartily, never pausing until the last particle of food was gone. Then
+they rose like giants refreshed with new wine.
+
+"Now," said Warren, "we will mount the ponies, and instead of making for
+the fort will try to find the folks."
+
+"I'm wid ye there, as I remarked previously," was the response of the
+brave young rancher, who was ever ready to risk his life for those whom
+he loved.
+
+"It will be an almost hopeless hunt, for father could give me only a
+general idea of the course he meant to take, and we are likely to go
+miles astray."
+
+"We shall have to depind on Providence to hilp us, though it may be the
+folks are in no naad of our assistance."
+
+"I pray that such may be the case," was the fervent response of Warren,
+accompanied by a sigh of misgiving. "I think we shall be able to take
+care of ourselves, but father is in a bad fix with mother and Dot on his
+hands. I hope Plummer has joined them."
+
+"He niver will do the same," remarked Tim gravely.
+
+"Why do you say that?"
+
+"He has been killed by the spalpeens, for if he hadn't, he would have
+showed himsilf before we lift the ranch."
+
+"It looks that way, but you cannot be certain."
+
+"I wish I couldn't, but he must have larned of thim being so near the
+house as soon as mesilf, or very nearly so, and he would have been back
+before me. That he didn't come is proof to my mind that he niver
+will--ye may depind on the same."
+
+This brief conversation took place while the youths were saddling and
+mounting their horses. They made certain that everything was secure, and
+then, carefully guiding their animals among bowlders to the open
+prairie, paused a moment to decide upon the best course to take.
+
+To the northwest stretched the white plain in gentle undulations, and in
+the clear sunlight, miles away in the horizon, rose the dark line of a
+wooded ridge, similar to the others described, and which are so common
+in that section of the country. They agreed that the best course was to
+head toward it, for it seemed to them that the rancher had probably
+crossed the same at some point, or if he had not already done so, would
+ride in that direction. Possibly, too, the father, despite the wishes he
+had expressed, would suspect such a movement on the part of his son. If
+so, the probability of their meeting was increased.
+
+The air was clear, sharp, and bracing, with the sun shining from an
+unclouded sky. It was a time to stir the blood, and had not the young
+ranchers been oppressed by anxiety for their friends, they would have
+bounded across the plain in the highest possible spirits. The ponies,
+having no such fear, struck into a swinging gallop of their own accord,
+which continued without interruption until more than half the
+intervening distance was passed. All this time the youths were carefully
+scanning the wooded ridge, as it rose more distinctly to view; for they
+could not forget that they were more likely to meet hostiles than
+friends in that section, and approaching it across an open plain, must
+continue conspicuous objects to whatever Sioux were there.
+
+"Tim," said Warren, as they rode easily beside each other, "unless I am
+much mistaken, a fire is burning on the ridge."
+
+"Where?"
+
+"Almost directly ahead, but a little to the left; tell me whether you
+can make it out."
+
+The Irishman shaded his eyes with one hand, for the glare of the sun on
+the snow was almost blinding, and after a moment's scrutiny, said:
+
+"Ye are right; there is a fire up there; not much smoke does the same
+give out, but it is climbing up the clear sky as straight as a mon's
+finger."
+
+"I take it that it means Indians; it seems to me they are all around
+us."
+
+"I agraas wid ye, but s'pose it is a fire that yer fayther has started
+himsilf."
+
+Warren shook his head.
+
+"He would not do so imprudent a thing as that."
+
+"But he moight have in his eye that we'd be looking for something of the
+same."
+
+Still his friend was unconvinced.
+
+"He could not be certain that it would be noted by us, while he must
+have known that it was sure to attract the attention of the Sioux. No;
+I cannot be mistaken."
+
+"Do ye want to pass it by widout finding out its maaning?"
+
+"If it is father who has kindled the blaze, and he is looking for us, he
+will find some way of telling us more plainly----"
+
+"Do ye obsarve?" asked Tim, in some excitement.
+
+Beyond question the approach of the two young horsemen had produced an
+effect. The faint column of smoke which, until that moment, had climbed
+perpendicularly up the sky, now showed a wavy appearance, vibrating from
+side to side in graceful undulations, as though it were a ribbon swayed
+by human hands. But Warren, instead of accepting this as did his
+companion, regarded it as more indicative of danger. The Sioux that were
+responsible for the ascending vapor were aware of the approach of the
+couple, and were signalling the fact to others whose whereabouts was
+unknown to the whites.
+
+"Do ye moind," said Tim, "that two months since, whin we were hunting
+along the Big Cheyenne and got separated from him and Plummer, he let
+us know where they were in jist that way?"
+
+It was a fact. Precisely the same signal had been used by the parent to
+apprise his son and companion where he and Plummer were, though in that
+instance it was the employé who adopted the method.
+
+He was inclined for a few seconds to agree with his companion; but there
+was something in the prominence of the artifice, and the certainty that
+it would be noted by unfriendly eyes, that caused him to dismiss the
+belief. Enough doubt, however, had been injected into his mind to bring
+the desire for further investigation.
+
+"We will ride straight toward it, as though we intended to go to the
+camp or signal fire as it may be, but will turn aside before reaching
+the ridge, so as to avoid the trap that may be set for us. I had an
+experience yesterday afternoon something like that before you joined
+me."
+
+Strange it was that the couple, who, despite their youth, had learned so
+much of border life, forgot to keep watch of the rear, while giving so
+much attention to the front. Singular as it may seem, they had not
+looked behind them for the preceding half hour. The sight of the signal
+fire ahead so absorbed their interest that they neglected this obvious
+precaution; nor did it once occur to them that if the smoke was sent
+into the sky by hostiles, who meant it for the guidance of confederates,
+those same confederates were likely to be to the rear of them.
+
+Such was the fact, and the knowledge came to the friends in the most
+startling manner conceivable, being in the shape of several rifle
+bullets which whistled about their ears. Then, when they glanced
+affrightedly around, they saw fully a dozen Sioux bucks, all well
+mounted, bearing down upon them at full speed.
+
+They had issued from the rocky section behind them, and ridden to this
+perilous position without the youths once dreaming of the fact until, as
+may be said, the hostiles were literally upon them.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A RUN FOR LIFE.
+
+
+But one thing could be done: that was to run, and Warren Starr and Tim
+Brophy did it in the highest style of the art. They put their ponies to
+their utmost pace without an instant's delay. The animals, as if
+conscious of their peril, bounded across the snowy plain on a dead run,
+with their riders stretching forward over their necks to escape the
+bullets expected every moment.
+
+It must have been that the Sioux were sure the fugitives would look
+around the next moment, else they would have stolen nearer before
+announcing their presence in such a startling fashion.
+
+The only hope for the young ranchers lay in the speed of their horses,
+since there was no other possible chance against the bucks who were as
+fierce after their lives as so many ravening wolves. The boys shouted to
+their animals, who flew across the plain as though the snow did not
+discommode them in the least. They did not separate, for the instinctive
+resolve thrilled them that they would fall or escape together.
+
+Each was provided with a repeating Winchester, and enough has been told
+to prove they knew how to use the weapons effectively, but the
+opportunity was hardly the present, since to turn and fire while their
+ponies were on the run, offered little chance of success, and was liable
+to interfere with their speed, so important above everything else.
+
+The flight was so sudden that, without thought, they headed toward the
+wooded ridge, where they had seen the suspicious signal fire, but they
+had not gone far before discovering that that would never do. The flight
+must end at the ridge, where they would find themselves at fearful
+disadvantage.
+
+"We must have the open plain or we are lost!" called Warren.
+
+"Ay, ay; I'm wid ye," replied Tim, who pulled sharply on the right rein
+of his animal. At the same moment his friend turned the head of his
+horse to the left, and, before the comrades were aware, they were
+diverging with several rods between them.
+
+Warren was the first to perceive the mistake, and believing he had
+adopted the right line of flight, shouted for his friend to do the same.
+Tim had already noticed the turn and now thundered across the prairie
+toward him. But the devious course, as will be readily seen, threw him
+slightly to the rear, seeing which, Warren drew in his animal to allow
+him to come up.
+
+"None of that!" called the Irishman; "ye've no advantage to throw away!
+Ye can't hilp me by that nonsense."
+
+But Warren gave him no heed. The next minute Tim was almost at his side.
+
+"I belave we're riding faster than the spalpeens," he added, glancing
+for the twentieth time to the rear, where the Sioux were forcing their
+horses to the utmost. They did not fire for some time after the opening
+volley, giving their whole attention to this run for life.
+
+That the capacities of the pursuing ponies varied was quickly apparent.
+Several began dropping to the rear, but more than half maintained their
+places near each other.
+
+It was hard to tell whether they were holding their own or gradually
+drifting back from the fugitives. The one hopeful fact was that as yet
+they were not gaining. Whether they would do so or lose ground must
+quickly appear.
+
+Tim Brophy now performed a deed as reckless as it was daring. He watched
+the rear more than did Warren, and was in the act of drawing up beside
+the latter, when he discovered that one of the Sioux was leading all the
+rest. He was fully a rod in advance, and what was more alarming than
+everything else, he was gaining, beyond question, on the fugitives. His
+horse had developed a burst of speed that no one anticipated.
+
+Rising to the sitting posture in the saddle, Tim brought his gun to his
+shoulder.
+
+"Don't do that!" admonished Warren. "You have no chance to hit him, and
+will cause Billy to lose ground."
+
+The Irishman made no reply; he was too much occupied with the act he had
+in mind. Furthermore, he noted that the buck whom he held in such fear
+was making ready to fire.
+
+But Tim was ahead of him, and, by one of those strange accidents which
+sometimes happen, he hit him so fair and hard that, with the invariable
+cry of his race when mortally hurt, he reeled sideways and fell to the
+ground, his horse, with a snort of alarm, circling off over the prairie
+far from his companions.
+
+[Illustration: TIM'S FORTUNATE SHOT.]
+
+Warren glanced around at the moment the gun was discharged and could
+hardly believe his own eyes. He knew the success was accidental, and
+hoped it would not encourage Tim to repeat the attempt.
+
+It was expected that the shot would serve as a check to the rest, and
+ordinarily it would have done so, but it produced not the slightest
+effect in that direction. Back of the fallen warrior, whose body rolled
+over and over in the snow, as it struck with a rebound, were more than
+half a dozen, with the others streaming after them. They gave no heed to
+their fallen leader, neither uttering any outcry nor firing in return,
+but pressing their ponies to the highest possible point. They were
+resolved upon capturing those fugitives and subjecting them to a
+punishment beside which shooting would be a mercy.
+
+It would not do to forget the country in front. While their chief
+interest lay to the rear, they were liable to run into some peril that
+would undo all the good gained by outrunning their pursuers. Warren saw
+that while they had swerved to the left, yet the course of the ridge
+would carry them to its base, unless they diverged still more from the
+direct path.
+
+And yet this divergence must be made as gradual as circumstances would
+permit, since otherwise great advantage would be given their enemies by
+the chance to "cut across lots," or in other words to follow a straight
+line, while offsetting the curved course of the fugitives.
+
+Directing the attention of Tim to the situation, he begged him to give
+no further thought to firing upon their foes.
+
+"I'll let the spalpeens alone if they'll do the same wid me," was his
+reply, spoken in a low voice, for the two were separated by only a few
+feet.
+
+"You can't have as good luck a second time."
+
+"But," persisted Tim, "if I hadn't dropped that felly, he would have
+tumbled you or mesilf out of the saddle, as he was about to do whin I
+jumped on him wid both feet."
+
+But Warren begged him to desist, confident as he was that any further
+attempt would result in ill to them. Tim held his peace, but leaving his
+friend to watch where they went he gave his chief attention to the
+Sioux, whose leaders, if they were not gaining ground, seemed to be
+holding their own.
+
+Suddenly, to Warren's disgust, his companion again brought his gun to
+his shoulder. Before he could aim and fire, however, one of the bucks
+discharged his weapon and the bullet nipped the leg of young Starr, who
+continued leaning forward, so as to offer as little of his body as
+possible for a target.
+
+Tim fired, but more than likely the ball went wide of the mark.
+
+His companion hoped that the act of their pursuers in shooting was
+caused by their fear of losing the fugitives through the speed of their
+ponies.
+
+But a short distance was necessary before the boys were riding in a line
+parallel with the ridge that had loomed up in their path. This gave them
+an open country for an unknown distance, over which to continue their
+flight, but it was hardly to be supposed that it would continue long.
+The section was too broken to warrant such a hope.
+
+It may have been the perception of the fugitives' object that brought
+the shot from the Sioux. At any rate, if it should become manifest that
+the young ranchers were drawing away, the rifles of the pursuers were
+certain to be brought into effective use, and the distance between the
+parties was fearfully brief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+AWAY WE GO!
+
+
+One recourse was before the pursuing Sioux from the start: that was to
+shoot the horses of the fugitives. The wonder was that they had not
+aimed to do so from the first. With the couple dismounted, they would be
+at their mercy.
+
+It was the fear of this that caused Warren to ask his friend to draw up
+as near to him as he could. It was not likely that both ponies would
+fall at once, and the survivor might be able to carry the couple to
+safety.
+
+"I tell ye we are gaining," said the Irishman, with far more hope in his
+manner than Warren thought was warranted.
+
+"We must gain a good deal before getting out of the woods," was the
+reply of the other, who devoted every energy to forcing his animal to
+his best pace.
+
+"Look out! they're going to shoot again," said Tim.
+
+Throwing himself forward, Warren hugged his pony closer than ever, his
+companion doing the same, instead of trying to use his gun. The volley
+came while the words were in course of utterance, but neither of the
+youths was touched. The Sioux must have found it equally hard to fire
+with their animals on a full run.
+
+"Why don't the spalpeens save their powder?" was the disgusted question
+of Tim, but his feelings changed a minute later, when his own pony
+showed by his actions that he had been hit hard. He uttered a low,
+moaning cry, and staggered as if about to fall.
+
+Warren was the first to notice it.
+
+"Tim, Billy is going to drop; ride closer and mount Jack behind me."
+
+"Not a bit of it! I'll see you hanged first," was the characteristic
+reply of the brave fellow, who sturdily refused to heed the urgent
+appeal of his friend.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Jack can't carry us both."
+
+"He can until we reach the ridge."
+
+"But we're not going toward it," insisted Tim, too observant to be
+deceived.
+
+"Turn Billy's head that way," said Warren, growing desperate in the
+imminence of the peril, and swerving his pony to the right; "Jack can
+carry us both as well as one."
+
+Still the Irishman hesitated. It might be as his companion said, but he
+was unwilling to imperil Warren, and destroy the chances of both, when
+everything looked so favorable for one.
+
+Meanwhile, the stricken Billy was fast giving out. He struggled gamely,
+but it was evident that he must quickly succumb. At the most, he could
+go but a short distance farther.
+
+The Sioux fired again, but nothing was accomplished. If Jack was hit, he
+did not show it during the few seconds that his rider held his breath.
+
+Still Tim held back in the face of the pleadings of his friend. Two
+discoveries, however, led him to yield.
+
+They were now heading straight for the ridge, which was barely half a
+mile distant. It must soon be attained, unless something happened to
+Jack. The foremost Sioux had fallen so perceptibly behind that there was
+reason to believe the horse could carry both riders to safety, or rather
+to the refuge which they hoped to find at the base of the ridge.
+
+"I'll do the same, being it's yerself that asks it----"
+
+"Quick! Billy is falling!" called Warren, far more excited than his
+companion.
+
+The crisis had come. The poor animal could go no farther, and was
+swaying from side to side like a drunken person, certain to fall with
+the next minute.
+
+Tim released his foot from the stirrup on his right, swung his leg over
+the saddle, as only a skilful horseman can do, and, holding his gun with
+one hand, grasped the outstretched one of Warren and made a slight leap,
+which landed him behind him.
+
+It was a delicate and difficult task, and despite the skill with which
+it was executed, both came within a hair of tumbling headlong to the
+ground.
+
+Quickly as it was done, it was not a moment too soon. The mortally
+wounded Billy suddenly went forward, his nose ploughing up the snow and
+earth, and after a few struggles all was over.
+
+The action had not only increased the danger of both of the fugitives,
+but it rendered the situation of the Irishman doubly perilous. Although
+both leaned forward, they could not do so as effectually as when each
+was on his own horse, and Tim of necessity was the more exposed of the
+two.
+
+Leaving Warren to guide and urge Jack, he gave his attention to the
+Sioux, who did not relax their efforts, but whose relative situations,
+owing to the varying speed of their horses, underwent a curious change
+of position.
+
+Two were riding abreast, and so far as Tim could see there was not the
+least difference in the speed of their ponies. Behind them at a distance
+of several rods came two others, holding precisely the same relative
+positions, while the rest were strung along over the prairie, until it
+looked as if the hindmost was a third of a mile distant.
+
+Nothing was to be feared from them, but what of those that were so much
+nearer?
+
+That was the vital question that must soon be answered.
+
+While the position of the Irishman was anything but pleasant, and with
+the horse on a jump he was required to take the utmost care to maintain
+his seat, he decided to try his gun once more.
+
+This proved harder than he supposed. He could make no use of the saddle
+in which young Starr sat, and when he sought to turn he would have
+fallen, had he not kept one arm about the waist of his friend. And yet,
+in the face of all this, he managed to get his Winchester in position
+with the muzzle toward the leading Sioux.
+
+Anything like aiming the weapon was out of the question, and it would
+have been folly to expect that a second chance shot would favor him.
+Nevertheless, the demonstration accomplished something unexpected. He
+had done execution with one shot, and when the bucks saw the muzzle
+pointing backward, they were scared.
+
+The leaders naturally supposed they were the ones intended to serve as
+targets, and they ducked their heads with such suddenness that the
+Irishman grinned. Not only that, but one of them caused his
+pony--probably through some inadvertent act on the part of the rider--to
+swerve from his course, thereby interfering with those immediately in
+the rear.
+
+Even the companion at his side was thrown somewhat out of "plumb," and
+lost a few paces, much to the delight of Tim, who gleefully told Warren
+of what had taken place.
+
+The advantage to the fugitives will be understood when it is remembered
+that they were rapidly drawing near the ridge, now at no great distance
+in front.
+
+True, there was no certainty that it would prove a refuge to them, if
+attained; but it would be more of a shelter than the open prairie,
+where, if driven to bay, there was not the slightest protection against
+the bullets of the Sioux, unless the body of Jack should be used as a
+breastwork.
+
+The confusion of the bucks was only temporary. They needed no one to
+tell them what the aim of the youths was when they changed the line of
+their flight, nor could they fail to see that the ridge would be
+attained quite soon, unless they were checked.
+
+Tim Brophy suspected that such thoughts were passing through their
+minds, and despite the hopelessness of the effort, he discharged his
+rifle toward them; and when it is stated that it was discharged "toward
+them," no more can be said. There is no reason to believe that he came
+within twenty feet of hitting any one of the Sioux.
+
+It may be doubted, therefore, whether this essay on his part was
+beneficial to himself and companion, inasmuch as it must have lowered
+their opinion of his marksmanship and convinced the red men that they
+were altogether mistaken in giving heed to any more shots fired by him
+from the back of the pony, which was not only going at full speed, but
+was carrying a double burden.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+ON FOOT.
+
+
+The fugitives were now so close to the ridge that Warren Starr, from his
+position on his pony, turned his attention to their immediate front. He
+saw that the race must end, so far as his steed was concerned, within
+the next second. The trees stood close together, the ascent was steep,
+and the bowlders and rocks, plainly discernible, since all leafage was
+gone, showed that the horse must halt of necessity at the moment of
+striking the base of the elevation.
+
+The Sioux had ceased firing. They were so certain of capturing the
+youths that they saved their ammunition. The struggle could not last
+much longer.
+
+"Be ready to jump off!" said Warren to his companion; "I am going to
+stop!"
+
+Even as he spoke, he threw Jack on his haunches with a suddenness that
+would have pitched the couple over his head, had they not braced
+themselves. Both took a flying leap from his back and dashed for the
+cover now directly before them.
+
+The purpose was still to keep together, but circumstances beyond their
+control prevented. They had no time to form any plan. Young Starr darted
+to the right, aiming for some rocks which he fancied might afford
+partial shelter. Tim had his eye on a somewhat similar refuge to the
+left, and made for that. He would have joined his friend had he known
+his intention, but the seconds were too precious to allow it, after a
+few steps were taken. So he kept on without once glancing behind him.
+
+Still there was no firing. The Indians must have felt more certain than
+ever of their prey, thus to hold their shots. They emitted several
+whoops of exultation, and the foremost bounded from their ponies and
+sped after the fugitives like so many bloodhounds.
+
+But the separation of the latter compelled a division of the former,
+who, it will be remembered, were scattered at varying distances, only a
+couple being at the heels of the young ranchers. Thus it came about that
+each was pursued by a single warrior, and through a whim which cannot be
+fully understood, the Sioux next to the leaders turned to the left on
+the trail of the young Irishman, who had thus the honor, if it may be so
+considered, of attracting the greater attention.
+
+For a few moments Warren devoted his energies to running. He bounded
+like a hare over the first bowlder that interposed, swerved slightly to
+the right, to pass an obstructing rock, and went up the slope with the
+same headlong speed with which he had dashed from the level ground to
+the bottom of the slope.
+
+It was not until he had sped fully a hundred yards in this furious
+fashion that he ventured to throw a glance over his shoulder. Then he
+learned that there was but a single Sioux in sight.
+
+The fugitive had held his own so well against this miscreant, that the
+latter must have felt a quick fear of his escaping him altogether. Young
+Starr was an unusually swift sprinter, and it may be doubted whether
+the fleet-footed Indian could have run him down in a fair contest.
+
+The fear of losing the young man caused the Sioux to check himself
+abruptly, bring his gun to a level, and let fly.
+
+An extraordinary accident, or rather providence, saved the fugitive. At
+the very instant of his enemy firing, Warren's foot slipped in the snow,
+and he stumbled on his hands and knees. Certain that his fall was due to
+the bullet just sent after him, the Sioux, with a whoop of triumph,
+bounded forward over the bowlders and around the rocks to finish him.
+
+Warren saw, with lightning-like quickness, that his fall might be his
+salvation. It had deceived his foe into the belief that he was either
+killed or mortally hurt, and he was, therefore, unprepared for that
+which followed.
+
+The youth did not attempt to rise. He had slipped down in such a
+position that he was hidden from the sight of his pursuer. He quickly
+shifted around so as to face him, and, rising on one knee, held his
+Winchester pointed and ready for use.
+
+He had not long to wait. The Sioux was so close that the next minute his
+head and shoulders appeared above the rock, as he took his tremendous
+strides toward the lad, whom he expected to see stretched helpless on
+the snowy earth.
+
+The sight of him kneeling on one knee, with his rifle aimed, his eye
+ranging along the barrel, and his finger on the trigger, was the first
+startling apprisal of the real state of affairs.
+
+The warrior instantly perceived his fearful mistake, and made a
+desperate attempt to dodge to one side, but though the loon may elude
+the bullet of the hunter's rifle, no man has ever yet been equal to the
+task. No screeching Indian was ever hit more fairly, surprised more
+suddenly, or extinguished more utterly.
+
+[Illustration: THE DEATH OF THE INDIAN.]
+
+And so it came about that in the twinkling of an eye Warren Starr was
+left without a pursuer. Not a solitary Sioux was in sight.
+
+But he was too wise to think he was safe. He was simply relieved for
+the time being of his harassing foes. They must have heard the discharge
+of his rifle, and some of them would soon investigate when their comrade
+failed to return to them. This would be after a few minutes. Naturally
+they would suppose that the fugitive had been brought down, and not
+until a brief period had elapsed would they suspect the truth.
+
+It was this interval which must be utilized to the utmost, if the youth
+hoped to escape. While the snow would reveal his trail so plainly that
+it could be followed without the least difficulty, yet his own fleetness
+ought to enable him to keep so far in advance of the Sioux that they
+could not gain another shot at him. True, he was deprived of his
+matchless pony, but the red men were also on foot, and therefore they
+stood on equal terms, with the opening in favor of the fugitive.
+
+Warren would have been full of hope and resolution, but for Tim Brophy.
+His concern for his devoted friend forbade him turning the situation
+solely to his own account. He made a hasty examination of his rifle, and
+found nothing the matter with it. It was ready for use whenever needed.
+
+Not a solitary warrior was in sight, and the profound stillness which
+reigned caused the incidents of the last few minutes to seem like some
+wild dream.
+
+With that peculiar doubt that sometimes comes over one in such crises,
+Warren gently pinched one hand with the other. The result convinced him
+that everything was real--imagination had nothing to do with it.
+
+The reports of his own Winchester and the Sioux's rifle were all that
+had broken the stillness since the headlong leap of the young ranchers
+from the back of the pony. There could have been no other report without
+its being heard by Warren, who was sorely perplexed over the fact.
+
+Could it be that equally good fortune had befallen Tim Brophy? Had he
+been able to throw his pursuers off the track for the time? It seemed
+impossible that two such providences should come simultaneously to the
+fugitives. The Irishman was by no means as fleet of foot as Warren, and
+with the majority of the pursuers dashing after him, only the worst
+result was to be feared.
+
+"Some of them will soon be here," was the conclusion of the youth, as he
+stood sorely perplexed as to what he should do; "if I remain, I shall
+have half a dozen of them around me, and then it will be all up; but
+what about Tim?"
+
+In his chivalrous devotion to his comrade, he now began withdrawing from
+his dangerous position, but trended to the right as he faced his
+enemies, with the object of getting near Tim, and with the hope that he
+might be of help to him in his desperate strait.
+
+He shuddered as he glanced down at the ground and observed the prints he
+made in the snow. There could be no delay in tracing him, no matter what
+direction he might take. It must be the same with his friend, who,
+despite any advantage gained at the beginning of his last flight, could
+be readily run down, if the Sioux preferred that to "winging" him while
+in full flight.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+DOWN!
+
+
+Meanwhile Tim Brophy found himself in the hottest quarters of his life.
+
+Inspired by the same desperate thought of his friend, he strove, with
+all the energy he possessed, to widen the space between himself and his
+pursuers. Less fleet of foot than they, it took but a few seconds to
+show him the hopelessness of the task.
+
+None of the trees was large enough to give protection to his body, but
+seeing no rocks that could serve him, he dodged behind the first trunk
+that presented itself. This was barely six inches in diameter, and was
+no better than nothing at all.
+
+Pausing but a moment, he leaped away again, with that wild, aimless
+impulse which comes over one when panic-stricken. The halt, brief though
+it was, proved fatal. His pursuer was on his heels, and the brave youth
+turned at bay. As if fate was against him, when he attempted to bring
+his rifle to a level, he made a slip and it dropped from his grasp. He
+had no time to pick it up.
+
+"S'render! s'render!" called his foe in good English, waving his right
+hand aloft with his gun grasped in it.
+
+"I'll surrender, ye spalpeen!"
+
+Resorting like a flash to nature's weapons, the Irishman delivered a
+blow straight from the shoulder, which sent the Sioux spinning backward
+with his feet pointing toward the sky.
+
+Had he been the only foe to contend with, Tim might have saved himself,
+for the savage was utterly "knocked out," and the opportunity to finish
+him could not have been better.
+
+Tim had his revolver, but in his excitement he forgot the important
+fact. He was about to leap upon his prostrate enemy, with the intention
+of snatching his gun from him and using it, when the other two Sioux
+burst to view.
+
+Without waiting for them to assail him, the youth dashed forward like a
+panther at bay.
+
+Before the foremost could elude the assault, he struck him as fairly as
+he had hit the other, and he sprawled on his back, with the breath
+driven from his body.
+
+But the impetus of his blow carried Tim forward, and, half tripping in
+his headlong rush, he fell on his hands and knees. He strove frantically
+to save himself, but, before he could struggle to his feet, the other
+Sioux dealt him a stroke with the butt of his gun which laid the fellow
+helpless on his face.
+
+The skull of the Irishman, however, was tough, and he quickly recovered,
+but not before several other warriors appeared on the scene.
+
+For one moment the young rancher meditated a rush upon them, and had
+actually doubled his fists for that purpose, but even in his fury he
+perceived the folly of such a course. If he assailed the Sioux, they
+would quickly finish him then and there, while the fact of their having
+spared his life thus far proved that they did not intend to put him to
+instant death.
+
+It was with singular emotions that he recognized among the last arrivals
+the Carlisle student Starcus, who had saved his life the preceding
+morning by his timely shot when the grizzly bear was upon him. The
+presence of the "civilized" youth among the hostiles told its own story.
+
+"Ye've got me foul," said Tim, looking straight at Starcus as he spoke;
+"and now ye may do wid me what ye loikes."
+
+Starcus, knowing the words and look were meant for him, made no answer,
+but kept in the background.
+
+He was grim and silent. Who shall say what thoughts were stirring his
+heart at that trying moment! He had sat with this youth at the table of
+George Starr and his family.
+
+He had partaken of their hospitality, and had claimed to possess the
+civilization which he was anxious his own race should adopt, but here he
+was, taking part in the pursuit and attack of two youths who not only
+had never done him harm, but had always acted the part of friends toward
+him.
+
+There was one curious fact (and yet, perhaps it was not so curious after
+all) which was evident to the captured youth. The Sioux admired the
+brave fight he had made for himself. Trained for ages to regard physical
+prowess as above all virtues, the American race cannot fail to revere
+it, even when they are the sufferers therefrom.
+
+The warrior who had first felt the weight of Tim's fist now began
+clambering to his feet. He was dazed and bewildered, for the blow was a
+terrific one. Landing squarely in his face, it had brought considerable
+crimson, which, mingling with the daubs of paint already there, gave him
+a frightful appearance.
+
+He assumed the upright posture, and standing uncertainly for a few
+seconds, fixed his eyes on the prisoner.
+
+Then grasping the situation, and recognizing him as the individual that
+had treated him so harshly, he suddenly emitted a shout, whipped out his
+hunting-knife, and rushed at him like a fury. Tim instantly threw
+himself into a pugilistic attitude, and no doubt would have given a good
+account of himself had he been permitted, for he was skilled in the art
+of self-defence, and such a person always has the advantage over a foe,
+no matter what his weapon, provided it is not a firearm.
+
+But the collision did not take place. Three Indians interposed,
+restraining the fierce red man; among the foremost being Starcus, who
+roughly seized the upraised arm and forced the warrior back several
+steps, using some strong words in his own language. The savage strove to
+free himself that he might attack the youth, but he was not permitted,
+and finally gave up the effort and withdrew sullenly into the
+background.
+
+This incident was hardly over, when the second warrior that had gone
+down before the young Irishman's prowess also gained his feet. He looked
+as if he would very much like to try conclusions again, with the aid of
+one of his weapons, but he seemed to think he could bide his time, and
+have it out on a more fitting occasion.
+
+The captive was too wise to place a favorable construction on the
+interference of Starcus, despite the additional fact of his kindly
+offices of the morning. The rest of the Sioux had shown a wish to take
+him prisoner, for certainly the chance to bring him down had been theirs
+more than once. Actuated by their intense hatred of the white race, they
+looked upon sudden death as too merciful to a foe that had done them so
+much ill. He had slain one of their best men, and knocked prostrate two
+others; no punishment, therefore, was too cruel to be visited upon him.
+
+While the group stood about the helpless captive they talked in their
+own language, without Tim being able to guess the meaning of a word
+uttered. He watched the countenances closely, and was surprised a minute
+or two later by the appearance of the last member of the party. He came
+straggling up as though he felt no concern in the proceedings. That
+which interested Tim the most was the sight of his valued Winchester in
+the fellow's hand. For one moment the youth thought he meant to hand it
+over to him, but that would have been a stretch of hospitality of which
+none of his race could ever be guilty. He did a rare thing for an
+Indian--indulged in a grin of pleasure at the prize which his
+companions had passed by to allow it to fall into his possession.
+
+In his trying situation, Tim Brophy could not avoid a feeling of
+curiosity concerning Starcus. To him the fellow's conduct was
+inexplicable. While his presence among the Sioux was proof that he was
+"with them" in thought, intention, and feeling, yet there was the
+friendly act of the morning during the struggle with the grizzly, and
+his late interference to prevent the warrior from injuring him, which
+united to puzzle the captive.
+
+As has been said, he was too wise to build much hope on these facts, but
+nevertheless they raised doubts and questions relating wholly to the
+future.
+
+Would Starcus continue to hold his present enmity to the people that had
+been friendly to him?
+
+While he had been carried away by the frenzy that had driven so many of
+his people out of their senses, was not an awakening likely to take
+place, when his better nature would resume control? Could he forget
+that he had eaten salt with this hapless fellow, and stand by, without
+raising hand or voice, when his extremity should come, as come it must,
+in a very brief while?
+
+But these were questions that Tim Brophy could not answer; they must be
+left for the immediate future.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE FRIEND IN NEED.
+
+
+While these lively scenes were taking place, Warren Starr was not idle.
+The report of his gun was plainly heard by the other Sioux and the
+captive, but the former took it for granted that it was fired by their
+comrade, and calmly awaited his return with the news of the death of the
+fugitive.
+
+But as the reader has learned the boot was on the other leg. The youth
+was unharmed, and his enemy was of no further account.
+
+Actuated by the chivalrous wish to help Tim, he began cautiously picking
+his way along the slope, at a considerable distance from the base,
+peering forward and listening intently for sights and sounds that could
+tell him how his companion had fared.
+
+He had better fortune than he dared expect. The flickering of something
+among the trees warned him that he was in a delicate position, and his
+farther advance was with the utmost care, accompanied by glances on
+every hand, to guard against walking into a trap.
+
+Very soon he reached a point from which he saw all that was going on.
+Tim was standing defiantly among the Sioux, who appeared to be
+discussing the question of what to do with him. He identified Starcus,
+and recognized also the hapless state of affairs.
+
+Much as he regretted the conclusion, Warren Starr was forced, in spite
+of himself, to see that it was out of his power to raise a finger to
+help his friend. For one moment he meditated bringing his Winchester to
+his shoulder and opening fire, but at the best he could not hope to
+bring down more than two or three before the others would be upon him.
+With no possible way of escape open, the situation of Tim would be worse
+than before, for one of the first things done by the Sioux would be to
+slay him on the spot, whereas they were now likely to spare him for a
+time, and so long as he had life, so long did hope remain.
+
+Warren would have been as eager to befriend the brave fellow as the
+latter would have been to aid him; but, as we have said, there was no
+dodging the fact that it was out of his power. What, therefore, should
+he do for himself and the other loved ones for whom all this danger had
+been incurred?
+
+Where were that father, mother, and little sister? They might be in
+equally sore distress, and longer delay on his part perhaps would decide
+the question of life or death.
+
+Stealthily withdrawing again, until well beyond sight of the group, he
+began carefully descending the side of the ridge toward the open
+prairie. In doing so, he avoided doubling on his own trail, for at any
+moment some of the Sioux were liable to start out on a tour of
+investigation, which would bring them face to face with him.
+
+With all his senses on the alert, he threaded his way among the trees
+and around the rocks and bowlders, until he stood on the base of the
+elevation, with the broad plain, across which he and his friend had fled
+in such desperate haste, stretching out before him for many miles.
+
+But another sight interested him. Along the foot of the ridge were
+scattered nearly a dozen Indian ponies, cropping as best they could the
+grass, whose tops faintly showed above the thin coating of snow. Their
+owners had abandoned them in their haste, without thought of securing
+them to any of the limbs, confident that they would be found within
+reach when wanted.
+
+They were tough little animals, without saddle or bridle. The majority
+had a blanket roughly secured over the back, with a thong about the
+upper part of the neck, which was all that was needed to guide them
+wherever their masters willed.
+
+But there was one animal worth all the rest for whom the eyes of the
+youth eagerly searched among the group, scattered at varying distances.
+He would have given anything for a sight of his own Jack at that moment.
+
+To his astonishment, he saw nothing of him. Through some unaccountable
+cause, he had vanished as utterly as if he had never existed.
+
+In the vain hope of discovering him, Warren glanced from one to the
+other, until he had surveyed each one several times over. But there was
+no mistake; Jack was invisible.
+
+The fact caused him keen regret, but it would not do to tarry, with the
+certainty that the Sioux would soon learn the truth and be after him
+like a whirlwind. One or two of their ponies were almost as fleet as
+Jack, and Warren was a good enough horseman to ride them as well as
+their masters could without saddle.
+
+Fixing his attention on the best looking animal, which happened also to
+be the nearest, he moved briskly toward him, with the purpose of
+bounding upon his back and dashing away; but his abruptness defeated his
+intention. It frightened the pony, who with a snort threw up his head,
+trotted several rods out on the prairie, and then turned and looked at
+him.
+
+The alarm of this animal communicated itself to the others, who also
+hurriedly trotted beyond his reach.
+
+The situation was critical. The action of the ponies was almost certain
+to be heard by their owners a short distance off, and they would be
+quickly on the spot. If they caught sight of the youth on foot trying to
+steal one, his position would be far more hopeless than when among the
+rocks and trees.
+
+Seeing his mistake, Warren tried to right matters by a less abrupt
+approach. He dropped to a slow walk, holding out his hand and uttering
+soothing words. Had he done this at the beginning, he would have had no
+trouble in capturing any horse he desired, but the animals identified
+him as a stranger, and continued shy.
+
+The finest, which he had sought first to catch, closely watched him as
+he slowly approached, but at the very moment the heart of the youth was
+beating high with hope, he swung his head around and trotted beyond
+reach. Warren turned his attention to the one that was nearest, and by a
+sudden dash aimed to catch his halter, one end of which was dangling in
+the snow.
+
+As he stooped to grasp the thong, it was whisked from under his hand,
+and the pony galloped beyond his reach.
+
+The bitter disappointment made Warren desperate. He had undertaken an
+impossible task. He might succeed had more time been at his command, but
+the Sioux were liable to appear any minute. It would not do for him to
+be caught in this situation. He must abandon the attempt and get back
+among the trees and rocks, where there remained the bare possibility of
+eluding the red men.
+
+"What the mischief has become of Jack?" he muttered, facing about and
+breaking into a lope for the ridge. "If he were only in sight, he would
+come to me at once. Hello! just what I feared!"
+
+At that juncture he detected something moving among the trees. It was
+not clearly seen, but not doubting that the Sioux were coming, he broke
+into a run for cover, not daring to risk a shot until partial shelter
+was secured.
+
+In his affright he did not dare glance to the left even, and held his
+breath in thrilling expectancy, certain that with every leap he took he
+would be greeted by a volley, or that the Sioux would throw themselves
+across his track to shut off all chance of escape.
+
+That they did not do so was not only unaccountable to him, but gave him
+the hope that possibly he might still elude them. Bending his head, he
+ran with might and main. The distance was not great, but it seemed
+tenfold greater than it was, and a slip of the foot, which came near
+bringing him to his knees, filled his heart with despair and made him
+certain that he would soon join Tim Brophy.
+
+He heard his pursuers at his heels. Despite his own fleetness, they were
+outspeeding him. Nothing could save him from being overtaken before
+reaching the ridge.
+
+Suddenly a peculiarity in the sound made by those at his rear caused him
+abruptly to halt and look around.
+
+Then, to his unbounded delight and amazement, he recognized his own
+pony, Jack, striving hard to keep him company.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE PRAIRIE DUEL.
+
+
+Warren Starr could have hugged his pony in his transport of delight.
+Until a moment before he was sure several of the Sioux were upon him;
+when, wheeling about, he was confronted by Jack, whom he had been
+desirous of meeting above every other person or animal in the world.
+
+The action of the horse he understood. On the sudden flight of his
+master he had attempted to follow him among the rocks and trees of the
+ridge; the Indians, in the flurry of the occasion, paying no attention
+to him. Failing, he was making his way back to the open prairie, when
+the sight of his master sent him galloping after him; Warren being too
+panic-stricken to suspect the truth until he was well-nigh run down by
+the faithful animal.
+
+"Heaven bless you, Jack!" he exclaimed, with glowing face and joyous
+heart; "you are in the nick of time."
+
+Saddle and trappings were unharmed, though the tapering limbs of the
+creature had been scratched and cut by his attempt to follow his master.
+The youth was in the saddle in a twinkling, and, but for the sad
+situation of Tim Brophy, he would have uttered a shout of triumph.
+
+For in truth he felt safe, even though the hostiles were dangerously
+near. Remembering this, he rode farther out from the ridge, and whooped
+and swung his arms at the Indian ponies, who dashed still farther out on
+the plain.
+
+It was inevitable that this tumult should become known to the captors of
+Tim Brophy. Young Starr expected it, and therefore was not surprised
+when he saw the figures of several warriors at the base of the ridge. He
+could not forbear swinging his Winchester over his head and taunting
+them. They replied with several shots, but the distance was too great
+for Warren to feel any alarm. He, too, discharged his gun at the group,
+and acted as if he meant to challenge them to come out and attack him.
+
+If such were his intentions, the challenge was accepted. Several
+warriors ran out on the prairie, calling to their ponies, in order that
+they might mount and take up the pursuit. Their action caused the youth
+no alarm, for the test of speed had already been made, and he feared
+none of the Indian animals.
+
+The latter may have been under good discipline when their masters were
+astride of them, but they showed anything but obedience now that they
+were free from their control. They kept trotting about in circles, and
+avoided the warriors with a persistency that must have been exasperating
+to them.
+
+Only one displayed consideration for his master. He was among the
+fleetest, and after some coy dallying he stood still until the athletic
+Sioux came beside him. He vaulted upon his back, and then accepted the
+seeming challenge of the youth.
+
+The latter had checked his steed at a safe distance on the snowy plain,
+and confronted the Indian party. Looking beyond the warrior nearest him,
+he strove to catch sight of Tim Brophy; but he was too far off, and the
+trees interfered with his vision. Before he could continue the scrutiny
+long, the mounted Sioux demanded his attention.
+
+Prudence would have suggested that now, since young Starr was well
+mounted, he should take no chances, but scurry away at the top of his
+speed, leaving the discomfited warrior to nurse his chagrin over the
+clever trick played upon him.
+
+But the young rancher saw no reason why he should flee from a single
+buck, no better mounted or armed than himself. He had had enough
+experience in the Northwest to understand those people well, and thought
+he knew how to take care of himself. No, he would fight him; and now
+opened a most extraordinary prairie duel between Warren Starr and his
+dusky enemy.
+
+The youth glanced at his Winchester, and saw that it was all right, as
+was the case with his revolver. His saddle was firmly cinched in place,
+Jack was at his best, and what cared he for a single Indian, even though
+he was a warrior that had taken the scalp of more than one unoffending
+pioneer!
+
+Jack stood as motionless as a statue, with his nose toward his enemy. A
+gentle wind blowing across the prairie lifted his luxuriant mane
+slightly from his neck and swung his heavy tail to one side. His head
+was high, and the nostrils seemed to breathe defiance to the dusky foe,
+who approached at a swinging gallop, as though he meant to ride down the
+animal and rider.
+
+But he held no such intention. The Sioux required no one to tell him
+that that stationary figure, sitting so firmly in his saddle, meant to
+fight.
+
+While more than a hundred yards still separated the combatants the Sioux
+horseman wheeled to the right, and, without checking his speed, started
+to describe a long circle around the youth. The latter spoke softly to
+Jack, who slowly turned, so as to keep his head continually pointed
+toward the enemy. Evidently the animal understood the situation, and was
+competent to do his part.
+
+The Sioux at the base of the ridge had given over their effort for the
+time to capture their ponies. All their attention was centred on the two
+horsemen out on the prairie.
+
+As yet the Indian made no move to fire. Warren was looking for him to
+throw himself over the side of his animal, and aim from under his neck,
+screening his own body meanwhile from the bullet of the young rancher.
+Instead of doing so, however, he described a complete circle about
+Warren, coming back to his starting point, while Jack continued to move
+around, as if on a pivot, keeping his head always facing his foe.
+
+The warrior was starting on his second round, when, without any
+perceptible movement, he discharged his gun. Warren saw the blue puff of
+smoke, the report sounding dull and far away in the wintry air.
+
+The bullet did not pass nigh enough for him to be aware how close it
+was. It would seem that the Indian ought to have done better, for it was
+noticeable from where Warren sat that in completing his circle he had
+shortened it, and was now several rods nearer than when he set out to
+circumnavigate him.
+
+"It is no more than fair to return the compliment," thought Warren,
+raising his Winchester, taking careful aim, and pulling the trigger.
+Truth compels us to say, however, that his shot went as wide of the mark
+as the one aimed at him. Thus far honors were equal between them.
+
+The Sioux continued his trip around the central object, though what he
+expected or hoped to accomplish by this curious proceeding was more than
+his antagonist could conjecture.
+
+The advantage during the performance possibly was with young Starr; for,
+by keeping the nose of Jack pointed toward the other he offered the
+least possible target to the foe, while the course of the Indian
+compelled him to hold his pony broadside, himself remaining a
+conspicuous object on his back.
+
+"I think I can shorten this business," reflected Starr, "by another shot
+or two. I am standing still, and if I can't bring that fellow off his
+horse I'm of little account."
+
+But the Sioux was more watchful than he suspected. Hardly was the
+Winchester raised when, presto! the warrior disappeared. He had flung
+himself far on the other side of his pony, and was capable of
+maintaining that situation while making the circuit of the youth.
+
+The latter held his fire. He was confident of being able to hit the
+other animal, but to his mind that would be taking a dishonorable
+advantage, though none knew better than he that he was dealing with an
+enemy to whom treachery was a cardinal virtue.
+
+The horse showed no decrease of his speed, but continued galloping
+forward with the easy swing shown by the trained circus animal when an
+equestrian is giving an exhibition. That the rider, from his position on
+the other side of his body, with his moccason extended over the spine of
+the animal, was keeping close watch of the youth the latter did not need
+to be told.
+
+He must have seen Warren, after holding his weapon levelled for a
+moment, lower it again, disappointed at the vanishing target. The next
+moment the Sioux discharged his weapon.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+ON THE GROUND.
+
+
+The aim of the warrior was better than before, and though it was not
+fatal, it came startlingly near being so. The bullet nipped the ear of
+the pony, and cut through the coat of Warren Starr; grazing his shoulder
+in the passage.
+
+There could be no question that the red man was in dead earnest, and
+that when he discharged his rifle he meant to kill.
+
+It must not be supposed there was any holding back on the part of the
+youth; he was equally resolved that, if the chance were given, he would
+do his best to bring his antagonist from the back of his horse.
+
+The Sioux resumed his circling course, gradually drawing nearer the
+young man, who continued as alert as at the first; ready to take
+advantage of any opening that presented itself.
+
+Suddenly the red man wheeled his pony in the opposite direction,
+doubling on his own course. This compelled him to swing over to the
+other side in order to continue his use of the animal as a shield. He
+executed the movement with wonderful deftness, but a singular condition
+was against him.
+
+Young Starr had just formed the decision that the best, if indeed not
+the only thing he could do, was to shoot the steed of his foe. This was
+easy, and with the Indian dismounted he would be at a great
+disadvantage, though likely still to use the body of his animal as a
+guard against the marksmanship of his enemy; but the latter counted on
+the flurry giving him his opportunity.
+
+Thus it happened that at the moment the Winchester was at Warren's
+shoulder, and his eye was ranging along the barrel, he caught a glimpse
+of the dusky body in the act of whisking over that of the pony. The
+glimpse was only momentary, but under the peculiar conditions it was
+just what was needed. The youth fired, and with such accuracy that the
+warrior lunged over his steed, and sprawled in the snow on the other
+side.
+
+The released animal threw up his head with a snort, and trotted toward
+the ridge as if he, too, had felt the sting of the bullet and was
+hastening away from a possible repetition.
+
+The sight of the Indian on the ground told the youth of the success of
+his shot, but it did not lead him to do anything rash, as would have
+been natural in the flush of triumph. The Sioux was not yet killed, and
+was still capable of mischief.
+
+Warren rode rapidly a few yards toward him, and then brought Jack to an
+abrupt halt. He had seen something suspicious in the actions of his
+enemy.
+
+"Is he shamming?" was the question he asked himself, as he leaned
+forward, carefully keeping the head and neck of Jack in front of his
+body, and on the alert against a treacherous shot.
+
+The Sioux seemed to have fallen on his side, with his face turned partly
+away from the youth. With surprising quickness he shifted his position
+so as to confront the horseman, and still lay prostrate in the snow, as
+if unable to rise.
+
+There might be a sinister meaning to this. The pretence of being
+mortally disabled was an old one with his people, as many a white man
+has learned when too late. If he were trying the artifice in the present
+instance, he did it skilfully.
+
+Under the belief that he was powerless to inflict further harm, nothing
+was more natural than that the youth should ride forward with the
+purpose of giving him his quietus, disregarding his own safety until a
+bullet through the body should apprise him of his fatal oversight. It
+was this fear that checked Warren in the very nick of time.
+
+The one great obstacle in the way of the Sioux successfully playing this
+ruse was that he was in open view, where no movement on his part could
+be concealed. Were it in the wood, with rocks and trees at his command,
+the chances would have been far better for him.
+
+Warren Starr kept his eye fixed on him. It would have been easy, while
+seated on his own pony, to drive a ball through the miscreant, who was
+fully exposed to his fire, but it might be after all that he was badly
+wounded and unable to defend himself. If such were the case he could not
+commit the cruelty of firing at him again, even though the Sioux would
+have eagerly seized such a chance against a foe.
+
+It was for the purpose of learning the truth in the matter that Warren
+watched him with the utmost closeness, holding his own weapon ready to
+use the instant the other made a hostile demonstration.
+
+The action or rather inaction of the other Sioux at the base of the
+ridge was suggestive, and increased the suspicion of the young rancher.
+They were in a direct line with the one on the ground, so that Warren
+readily saw them without withdrawing his attention from his immediate
+antagonist.
+
+Instead of rushing out to the help of the latter they remained where
+they were, and continued the role of spectators. This looked as if they
+did not believe the fellow was in need of assistance, and they were
+simply waiting with confidence in the result of the piece of treacherous
+cunning.
+
+The warrior with his left hand drew his rifle round to the front. The
+weapon was a magazine one like Warren's, and it was one, therefore, of
+which it would not do to lose sight.
+
+The gun being in position for use, the owner, apparently with
+difficulty, raised the upper part of his body, so that it was supported
+on the left elbow. Then he essayed to call the right hand into play, but
+appeared to find a difficulty in doing so.
+
+Up to this moment Warren Starr had been trying to learn in what manner
+the fellow was wounded. The motion of his lower limbs showed no
+weakness, though it might have been there without appearing, so long as
+he held his prone position and did not call them into use.
+
+The action now indicated that his right arm was the one that had
+suffered, since it fumbled awkwardly and refused to give the needed help
+when called upon.
+
+Still all this might be pretence, intended to deceive the youth into
+uncovering himself. Warren did not lose sight of that probability.
+
+The action of the Sioux was precisely what it would have been had he,
+knowing that he was confronted by a merciless enemy, done his utmost,
+while badly wounded in the right arm, to bring his weapon to bear upon
+him. There was no hesitation or trouble with the left arm, but it was
+the other which, from appearances, refused to answer the call upon it.
+
+It was seen to move aimlessly about, but still was unable to help in
+aiming, and the hand could not manipulate the trigger--an impotence
+which, if actual, was fatal.
+
+But who can trust an Indian? Knowing that his slightest action could not
+escape the keen eyes of the youthful horseman a short distance away, was
+he not likely to direct every movement with the purpose of deceiving
+him?
+
+The truth must show itself soon; but be it what it might, Warren Starr
+had the comforting belief that he was master of the situation. He was
+unharmed, with his ready Winchester in such position that he could use
+it like a flash. As yet the Sioux had not brought himself to the point
+of aiming, and Warren was watching him so closely that he could
+anticipate his firing. He was resolved that the instant he attempted to
+shoot he would let fly, and end the singular prairie duel.
+
+It has taken considerable time to make all this clear, but the incidents
+from the fall of the Sioux to the close occupied but a few minutes.
+
+Young Starr spoke in a low voice to his pony, who began moving slowly
+toward the prostrate Indian, the rider holding his weapon ready as
+before. Jack took short and very deliberate steps, for he did not like
+the appearance of things. A man lying on the ground is always a
+disquieting object to a horse, and this one had already felt the sting
+of the Indian's anger when the bullet clipped a tiny speck out of his
+ear. Warren Starr was resolved to learn the truth, and he did so before
+Jack had advanced a dozen steps.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+A GOOD SAMARITAN.
+
+
+The young rancher was yet some distance from the prostrate foe, when his
+quick eye discovered something. It was a crimson stain on the snow near
+the stock of the Indian's rifle.
+
+The miscreant was wounded; he was not shamming.
+
+It was remarkable that with this discovery came an utter revulsion of
+feeling on the part of the youth. While he had been ready up to that
+moment to drive his bullet through the bronzed skull, an emotion of pity
+now took possession of him. He forgot that the fellow had tried with
+desperate endeavor to take his life, and he knew he expected no mercy at
+his hands. Nevertheless, as a Christian, he could not withhold his
+sympathy, nor could he forget that simple but sublime role of the good
+Samaritan.
+
+Touching his heels against the ribs of Jack, the pony increased his
+pace, but had not yet reached the prostrate figure when Warren
+experienced the greatest surprise of all.
+
+The Indian on the ground was Starcus!
+
+The next moment young Starr dropped from his saddle, and was bending
+over him.
+
+"I hardly expected this, Starcus," he said, with a gentle reproof in his
+voice. "You seem to have changed your mind since this morning, when you
+shot the grizzly."
+
+Indian though he was the fellow's painted face was darkened by an
+expression of deep pain, whether the result of his hurt or of his mental
+disquietude no one can say.
+
+"I am not your friend; I am the enemy of all white men."
+
+"You have proven that since you turned against those who would do you no
+harm. But I have no wish to reproach you; your arm is badly hurt; let me
+give you what help I can."
+
+"I want no help," replied the Sioux, resolutely compressing his thin
+lips; "go away and leave me alone."
+
+"I shall not; I am your master, and shall do as I please with you."
+
+"I tell you to leave me alone; I do not want your help," added Starcus
+fiercely.
+
+"You shan't hinder me, old fellow; this is for old times."
+
+And paying no heed to the sufferer, who struggled with pitiful
+awkwardness to keep him off, Starr ripped a piece from the lining of his
+coat, and began bandaging the bleeding arm. The Sioux still resisted,
+but while doing so showed a weakness rare in one of his race by fainting
+dead away.
+
+The youth made no effort to revive him until he had completed his hasty
+but rude swathing of the arm, which was badly shattered by a bullet.
+Then he flung some snow in the face of the fellow, who had already shown
+signs of coming to.
+
+Starcus looked around for a moment in a bewildered way, and then fixed
+his gaze on the wounded member, now bound so that the flow of blood was
+stopped. Then he turned his dark eyes on the face of the youth bending
+over him, with an indescribable expression, and said in a low voice:
+
+"I tried my best to kill you, Warren."
+
+"But you didn't; and I am unharmed, and am your friend."
+
+"And why are you my friend? I do not deserve it," continued the Sioux,
+with his black eyes still centred on the face of the athletic youth.
+
+"If you and I had what we deserved where would we be? Give it no further
+thought."
+
+Starcus now held his peace for a full minute, during which he never once
+removed his gaze from the countenance of the good Samaritan. Strange
+thoughts must have passed through his brain. When he spoke it was in a
+voice as gentle as a girl's.
+
+"Can you forgive me for what I have done?"
+
+"With my whole heart."
+
+"But I tried my best to kill you."
+
+"Are you sorry?"
+
+"Yes, sorry as I can be."
+
+"Then I repeat, I forgive you; but are you able to rise to your feet?"
+
+"Yes; I pretended I was not, so as to bring you closer to me. Had not my
+arm been hurt I would have shot you."
+
+"I am not sure of that," replied Warren, with a curious smile; "I
+suspected it, and was on my guard. At the first move on your part I
+would have fired. I was not sure even that you were hurt at all until I
+saw blood on the snow. But it will not do for you to stay here. Let me
+help you to your feet."
+
+Starcus proved that the rest of his limbs were uninjured by coming as
+nimbly as an acrobat to an upright posture.
+
+"You have done all you can for me, and I thank you; now do not wait any
+longer."
+
+"Why not?" asked Warren, suspecting his meaning, but desirous of testing
+him a little further.
+
+"Look toward the ridge," was the significant reply.
+
+The inaction of the other Sioux, as has been intimated, was due to their
+belief that Starcus was master of the situation. Even when they saw him
+pitch from the back of his pony they must have thought it a part of the
+strategy designed to lure the young man to his death.
+
+But the sight of the youth bending over the prostrate figure of their
+comrade told the truth. Starcus had been wounded, and was at the mercy
+of his conqueror.
+
+Much as the warriors were disappointed, they were not the ones to allow
+the brave fellow to be killed without an effort on their part to save
+him.
+
+Warren had suspected the truth, and, while seeming to be unaware of it,
+he observed several of the warriors running at full speed from the ridge
+out on the snowy prairie. They were still a goodly distance away, and he
+calculated just how far it was prudent to allow them to approach before
+appealing to Jack, standing within a few paces and awaiting his
+pleasure.
+
+He was hoping for just such a warning from Starcus as he had received.
+He wanted it as a "guarantee of good faith," and when it came all doubts
+of the sincerity of his repentance were gone.
+
+Still, although this particular Sioux might feel gratitude for the
+undeserved mercy shown to him, there was no hope of anything of that
+nature from his companions. Had Warren counted upon that, he would have
+made the mistake of his life. He and his friend had done the bucks too
+much ill to be forgiven for an act of kindness to one of their number,
+even though it was actuated by a motive whose nobility they could not
+fail to understand.
+
+"That is kind of you, to warn me of my danger," remarked the youth. "I
+shall not forget it. But they are so far off that I need not hurry to
+mount my horse."
+
+"Do not wait too long; they will soon be here."
+
+"I have my pony, and they are on foot."
+
+"But they can run fast."
+
+"I will leave in time; but, Starcus, if you are really a friend of mine,
+you have the chance to prove it by being a friend of Tim; he is a
+prisoner with your people, and in need of your good offices."
+
+"I cannot help him," was the reply, accompanied by a shake of the head.
+
+"I only ask that you shall do what you can; I am sure you will, whether
+it results in good to him or not."
+
+"Give yourself no hope of that; it will be hard for me to explain why I
+was spared by you."
+
+"But that was my own affair; surely they cannot suspect us of any
+collusion."
+
+"You do not know my people as I do."
+
+"But I am not the first white man that has shown mercy to a helpless
+foe; they know that as well as you and I."
+
+"You are waiting too long, Warren; they will soon be here," added the
+warrior, with an apprehensive glance toward the ridge, from which his
+people were approaching with alarming swiftness.
+
+"Well, good-by, Starcus."
+
+He grasped the left hand of the Sioux, who warmly returned the pressure
+with the words, "Good-by, Warren."
+
+Then Warren Starr, not a moment too soon, sprang into the saddle and
+galloped away.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE LONE HORSEMAN.
+
+
+The young rancher had calculated matters closely, for hardly was he in
+the saddle when the foremost of the running Sioux halted, raised his
+gun, and fired. He was nigh enough to make his shot dangerous, though
+providentially it did no ill.
+
+It was an inviting chance for Warren to return the fire with the best
+prospect of doing so effectively. But he had no disposition to slay any
+one of the hostiles. His singular experience with Starcus had a
+softening effect, and he was resolved to attempt no injury against the
+men unless compelled to do it in actual self-defence.
+
+Jack, being put to his best paces, quickly carried him beyond any
+further peril, and when far enough to feel safe he checked the pony and
+looked back.
+
+He saw half a dozen Sioux gathered around the wounded Starcus,
+evidently in conversation. Being strong in his lower limbs, and with his
+wounded arm bandaged as well as it could be, he required no attention or
+help from them. After all, knowing the buck had been a close friend of
+the young rancher, they must have seen nothing remarkable in the mercy
+that had been shown to him. White men are as capable of meanness and
+cruelty as the Indians, but few of them disregard the laws of honorable
+warfare, and still fewer are deaf to the cry of a hapless foe.
+
+A few minutes later the group moved slowly back in the direction of the
+ridge. A couple, however, drew off, and began a more systematic hunt of
+the ponies that had shown such a fondness for their freedom. They
+managed matters with such skill that they soon coaxed a couple of the
+fleetest back to captivity. With the aid of these they soon corralled
+the others, and the party gathered with their animals at the base of the
+ridge.
+
+Warren Starr remained at a safe distance for the greater part of an
+hour, in the hope of learning something of the intentions of the Sioux.
+But they gave no sign that he could understand. The ponies were in plain
+sight near the trees, and he caught glimpses of their owners moving back
+and forth, but nothing could be learned as to what it all meant.
+
+He now debated what he should next do. He was free, well mounted, and at
+liberty to follow his own judgment.
+
+His immediate anxiety was concerning Tim Brophy. He knew he was in the
+most perilous strait of his life; Warren's parents might be as badly
+situated, but he had no knowledge of the fact. He therefore hoped for
+the best concerning them. But if there was any way of helping his friend
+it was beyond his power to discover it. He was a prisoner in the hands
+of a dozen watchful and treacherous Sioux, who were not likely to give
+him the least chance of escape, and any attempt on the part of Warren to
+befriend him would not only be utterly useless, but would imperil his
+own life.
+
+He had appealed to Starcus to make the effort, but Warren saw the force
+of the Indian's declaration that it was beyond his power. He was
+wounded himself, and at the first move to interfere in behalf of the
+captive, who had killed one of their best warriors and badly bruised a
+couple, would be likely to bring down their vengeance upon his own head.
+Distressing as was the conclusion, there was no escaping it--he must
+turn his back on his devoted comrade. Warren accepted the situation like
+a martyr, and had decided to continue his search for his folks, of whose
+whereabouts he had only the vaguest idea.
+
+Two lines of action presented themselves, and there was much to be said
+in favor of and against both. By sharp riding he could reach Fort Meade
+before sunset, and there whatever help he might need would be cheerfully
+given by the commandant. Under the guidance of the friendly Indian
+scouts, they could search for the rancher and his family; and their
+knowledge of the people, as well as the country, would render such
+search far more effective than any by the youth, without taking into
+account the force that would insure safety instantly on such discovery.
+
+But this plan involved considerable time, with the certainty that his
+folks must spend another night in imminent peril--a night that he could
+not help believing was to prove the decisive one.
+
+Knowing nothing of the death of Jared Plummer, Warren hoped that he was
+with his father, despite the gloomy prophecy of Tim Brophy. If the young
+rancher could join them, the party would be considerable, and ought to
+hold its own against any band of Indians such as were roaming through
+the country. Besides, all would be well mounted and prepared for flight
+whenever advisable.
+
+These and other considerations, which it is not necessary to name,
+decided the youth to make further search for his folks before riding to
+Fort Meade.
+
+One fact caused him no little speculation. It will be remembered that
+the approach of himself and Tim to the ridge was caused by the discovery
+of a thin column of smoke climbing into the sky from a more elevated
+portion than that attained by themselves or the Sioux with whom they had
+had the stirring encounter.
+
+He did not forget, either, that the red men with whom they had exchanged
+shots, and from whom he had escaped by the narrowest chance conceivable,
+appeared from the opposite direction. Neither then, nor at any time
+since, had anything occurred to explain the meaning of the vapor that
+had arrested their attention when miles away.
+
+If it had been kindled by Sioux or brother hostiles, why had they not
+appeared and taken a hand in the lively proceedings? Abundant time was
+given, and if they were there they ought to have met the fugitives at
+the close of their desperate chase, when they sprang from the back of
+Jack and dashed among the trees on foot.
+
+It was these questions which caused the youth to suspect that the fire
+might have been started by his father. True, he had expressed a
+disbelief in this view when given by Tim, but that was before the later
+phase had dawned upon him.
+
+It looked like a rash act on the part of the rancher, if he had
+performed it, but there might be excuse for his appealing to the signal
+that he had employed in a former instance to apprise his son of his
+location.
+
+Speculation and guessing, however, could go on forever without result.
+There was but one way of learning the truth, and that was to investigate
+for himself.
+
+Prudence demanded that the Sioux at the base of the ridge should be
+given no inkling of his intention; and, in order to prevent it, a long
+detour was necessary to take him out of their field of vision.
+
+Accordingly he turned so as to follow a course parallel to the ridge,
+and breaking into a swift canter kept it up until, when he turned in the
+saddle and looked back, not the first sign of the hostiles was visible.
+
+He was now miles distant, too far to return on foot, even had he felt
+inclined to abandon Jack and try it alone. He rode close to the base of
+the ridge, whose curving course was favorable, and facing about started
+back toward the point he had left after his survey of the party that
+held Tim Brophy a prisoner.
+
+He did not believe there was any special danger in this, for he had only
+to maintain a sharp lookout to detect the Sioux, if they happened to be
+journeying in that direction. The broad stretch of open plain gave him
+every chance he could ask to turn the fleetness of Jack to the best
+account: and he feared no pursuit that could be made, where he was
+granted anything like a chance.
+
+His purpose was to approach as near the spot as was prudent, provided
+they remained where he last saw them, and then, dismounting, penetrate
+nigh enough to learn the meaning of the smoke which was such an
+interesting fact to him. The task was a difficult one, for it was more
+than probable that by the time he reached the neighborhood of the signal
+fire it would be extinguished; for certainly his father would not
+continue the display after it had failed in its purpose, and the
+appearance of the hostiles showed him that it was liable to do more harm
+than good.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+A BREAK FOR FREEDOM.
+
+
+Accustomed as are the Sioux to scenes of violence, it is not probable
+that any members of the party to whom we have been referring ever looked
+upon a sight so remarkable as the prairie duel between Starcus and the
+young rancher.
+
+This Indian, who had come among his native people in the hope of staying
+the tide of frenzy sweeping through the tribe, was himself carried away
+by the craze, and from a peaceable, well-educated youth became among the
+most violent of those that arrayed themselves against the white man.
+
+It was one of the better impulses of his nature that led him to fire the
+shot when Tim Brophy was in such danger from the grizzly bear; but, as
+he afterward confessed, it was no sooner done than he reproached himself
+for not having turned his weapon against the two youths for whom he had
+once entertained a strong friendship.
+
+When the headlong Irishman started toward him, Starcus hurried away, and
+not only joined a band of prowling hostiles, but told them of the lads,
+and joined in a scheme to capture and hold them as hostages for several
+turbulent Sioux then in the hands of the Government authorities. Knowing
+them as well as he did, he formed the plan of stealing up behind them,
+while they were riding across the snowy prairie, and the partial success
+of the plan has been shown.
+
+His comrades watched the opening and progress of the strange duel with
+no misgiving as to the results. They saw how a run of wonderful fortune
+had helped the young rancher, but now, when something like equality
+existed between the combatants, the superiority of the American over the
+Caucasian race must manifest itself.
+
+As events progressed the interest of the spectators deepened. They
+descended to the edge of the plain, where the view was unobstructed,
+leaving but a solitary warrior guarding the prisoner. The solicitude of
+the latter for his friend was as intense as it could be, for he could
+not be sure of the result until the end. He feared that Warren Starr was
+committing the same rashness for which he had often chided him.
+
+The view from the rocks through the intervening trees was so imperfect
+that it grew to be exasperating, but there seemed to be no help for it.
+
+The warrior in charge of Tim Brophy was expected to give his full
+attention to him, but as events progressed there was danger of his
+forgetting this duty. He began to look more to the singular contest than
+to his captive.
+
+This Indian was standing on his feet, leaning forward, and peering as
+best he could between the trees and the obstructing limbs. Tim was
+seated on a bowlder at his side, and until this moment was the target of
+a pair of eyes that would have detected the slightest movement on his
+part.
+
+The Irishman was quick to observe that by the strange trend of events a
+golden opportunity had or was about to come to him. The warrior seemed
+to forget him entirely, though, like all his people, he would be
+recalled with lightning quickness on hearing or seeing anything amiss.
+
+Surely no such chance could come again. Convinced of this, Tim seized it
+with the rush of a hurricane.
+
+Rising quickly and noiselessly to his feet he delivered a blow as quick
+as a flash under the ear of the Sioux, which stretched him like a dead
+man on his face.
+
+There had been no noise, and in the excitement of the occasion the
+Indians at the base of the ridge were not likely to learn what had taken
+place until the revival of the senseless warrior, who was not likely to
+become of any account for several minutes.
+
+Tim needed no urging to improve his opportunity. Facing the top of the
+ridge, he started off with a single desire of getting over the rough
+ground as fast as possible.
+
+He had taken but a few steps, however, when he abruptly stopped.
+
+"Begorra!" he muttered, "but what a forgitful spalpeen is Tim Brophy!"
+
+He had no rifle. That would never do, when pursuit was inevitable in a
+short time. Accordingly, he turned about, ran to the prostrate figure,
+and took the gun from his grasp. It was not as good as his own, but
+inasmuch as that was in the possession of one of the others it was
+beyond recovery.
+
+It seemed cruel, but to make matters safe the Irishman gave the
+prostrate fellow a second vigorous blow, from which he was certain not
+to recover for a considerable while.
+
+"I hate to hit a man whin he is down," he reflected. "If I meets him
+ag'in I'll ax his pardon."
+
+It was no time to indulge in sentiment, and he was off once more.
+
+Some strange fate directed his steps, without his noticing the fact,
+along the trail made by Warren Starr in his first hurried flight. Thus
+it was that he came upon the other warrior that had been outwitted by
+the youth whom he was so confident of capturing.
+
+Urgent as was his hurry, the fugitive paused a moment to contemplate the
+sight. Then with a sigh he hurried forward, for not a moment was to be
+lost.
+
+It was remarkable that, after having captured the young man with so much
+difficulty, they should have invited him to escape, as they virtually
+did by their action, but the circumstances themselves were exceptional.
+The like could not happen again.
+
+It was the same curious turn of events that extended his opportunity. It
+is rare, indeed, that, after a captive does make a break for freedom, he
+is allowed such a period in which to secure it; but here again the
+unparalleled series of incidents favored him.
+
+There had been no outcry on the part of the third victim to Tim Brophy's
+good right arm. But for the forgetfulness of the youth in starting off
+without his gun, the fellow would have recovered speedily and made an
+outcry that must have brought several of his confederates to the spot.
+
+But events were interesting beyond compare out on the prairie. All the
+Sioux but the one named were watching them, and when they saw the plight
+of Starcus there was a general rush to his assistance. The return was
+slow, being retarded by the efforts of several to capture their
+wandering ponies. When they succeeded in doing this and coming back to
+the edge of the plains, the better part of half an hour had passed.
+
+The first startling recollection that came to the party after this
+return was the fact that the warrior who had pursued the young rancher
+up the side of the ridge had not put in an appearance. They would have
+awakened to this fact long before but for the affair between Warren
+Starr and Starcus. Now that it was impressed upon them, and they
+recalled the report of the gun that reached them long ago, together with
+the reappearance of the young rancher on the back of his pony, they
+could not fail to see the suspicious aspect of things.
+
+There was a hasty consultation at the base of the ridge, and then the
+man who was really the leader ordered a couple of his warriors to lose
+no time in learning the truth. As eager as he to investigate, they set
+out without delay, but had not gone far when one of them uttered a cry
+which brought the whole party to the spot.
+
+A striking scene greeted them. The white prisoner was gone, and the
+Indian left in charge lay on his face like one dead. His gun was
+missing. Strange proceedings had taken place during the absence of the
+party.
+
+It took but a few minutes to learn the truth. It was easy to see that
+the interest of the guard in the incidents on the plain had caused him
+to forget his duty for the time. The Irishman had suddenly assailed him
+with that terrible right arm of his, and felled him senseless to the
+ground.
+
+The recipient of this attention was not dead, but he felt as though he
+wished he was, when he was helped to a sitting position, and was
+compelled not only to suffer the pain of the terrific blows received,
+but had to face the jeering looks of his companions, who could forgive
+anything sooner than the outwitting of a full-grown warrior by a trick
+which ought not to have deceived a child.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+COMRADES AGAIN.
+
+
+Actuated by his resolution to learn the real meaning of the signal fire
+seen on the crest of the ridge, Warren Starr pushed on in the face of
+the fact that every rod in the way of advance increased his own peril.
+Studying the contour of the country, and carefully making his
+calculations, he was able to tell when he drew near the scene of his
+stirring encounter with the war party of Sioux. Deeming it unsafe to
+ride farther, he drew his pony aside, and, dismounting, led him among
+the rocks and trees, until he was beyond sight of anyone passing over
+the open country. He did not forget that a plain trail was left, which
+would serve as an unerring guide to those hostiles who might come upon
+it, but that was one of the risks of the undertaking which could not be
+avoided.
+
+"Now, Jack, my boy, I want you to stay right here till I come back
+again," he said, in parting from the animal. "You have been faithful and
+have served me well, and I can depend upon you, for you are sure to do
+the best you can."
+
+There could be no doubt on that point, and without any more delay he
+left the creature and began toiling up the ascent, his Winchester firmly
+in his grasp, and as alert as ever for the sudden appearance of his
+enemies.
+
+An astounding surprise was at hand.
+
+He had penetrated but a short distance from his starting point when he
+became aware that someone else was in the vicinity. He caught only a
+flitting glimpse of a person, who, descrying him at the same instant,
+whisked behind a bowlder for protection. Warren was equally prompt, and
+the two dodged out of each other's sight in a twinkling.
+
+"If there is only one Indian," reflected the young rancher, "I ought to
+be able to take care of myself--great Heavens!"
+
+The exclamation was caused by the sight of Tim Brophy, who stepped from
+behind the shelter and walked toward him.
+
+Young Starr was astounded, and believed for a minute that his friend had
+been put forward as a decoy, and that his captors were immediately
+behind him. But that dread was removed the next moment by the appearance
+of the young Irishman, who, advancing jauntily, called out in his cheery
+voice:
+
+"It's all roight, me boy! None of the spalpeens are here, and it's
+mesilf that would like to shake ye by the hand."
+
+That the two warmly grasped hands and greeted each other need not be
+stated. Even then Warren could only murmur:
+
+"Why, Tim, this is the greatest surprise of my life! Where in the name
+of the seven wonders did you come from? and how came you to give them
+the slip?"
+
+"It was that which helped me out," replied the other, holding up his
+clenched fist; "it b'ats all other wippons whin ye git into a tight
+corner."
+
+Not until the fellow had told his story could the other comprehend the
+amazing truth. Then he saw how a marvellous combination of
+circumstances had helped him, and how cleverly the quick-witted youth
+had turned them to account.
+
+"I must shake hands with you again," responded the delighted Warren. "I
+never knew of anything more remarkable."
+
+"Ye didn't think ye could give me any hilp," chuckled Tim, "but ye did
+it all the same."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Haven't I told ye that the little circus ye opened out on the plain
+drew away all the spalpeens but the single one lift to look after me?
+And don't ye understand that ye made things so interesting that he
+forgot me until I reminded him I was there by giving him a welt under
+the ear that he won't forgit in a dog's age?"
+
+"I see; but I never dreamed of any such result as that."
+
+"Nor did I, but it came all the same, and sarved me as will as if ye had
+fixed up the whole business."
+
+Noticing the strange weapon in his hand Warren referred to it, and then
+received the whole story.
+
+"Well, it beats anything I ever heard of. Jack isn't far off, and we can
+use him as we did before."
+
+"And may I ask what ye are doing here so close to the spalpeens, whin ye
+ought to be miles away?"
+
+"I set out to learn whether that fire whose smoke we saw was started by
+father or not. I didn't think so when you and I were talking it over,
+but can't rid myself of the suspicion till I find out for myself."
+
+Tim nodded his head, and said:
+
+"Yis; it was Mr. Starr that did it."
+
+"How can you know that?"
+
+"I've been there, and found out," was the surprising reply.
+
+"Where are he and mother now?"
+
+"Can't say; I'm looking for them. Whin I give the spalpeens the slip I
+did the best travelling I knew how, and without thinking of anything but
+getting away as quick as I could I coom right onto the spot where the
+fire had been burning. It hadn't gone out yit, but it was so nearly so
+that it give no smoke. Looking around it did not take me long to l'arn
+that two horses had been there----"
+
+"They had three with them, as you told me."
+
+"But they have only two now. I wouldn't have been sartin of the matter
+if I hadn't seen the print of yer mother's small shoe in the snow, and
+while I was looking I obsarved that of Dot, no bigger than Cinderella
+hersilf might have made."
+
+Warren was profoundly interested, and tears dimmed his eyes.
+
+"Was there no man with father?"
+
+"I couldn't see any footprints except his."
+
+"Then it has been as you said: Plummer was killed by the Sioux. But
+surely you noticed the direction they took?"
+
+"I did that same, and was following their trail whin I cotched sight of
+yersilf among the trees, and coom nigh shooting ye before asking for an
+inthrodooction."
+
+"Then they have passed nigh this spot?" asked the startled son.
+
+Tim partly turned and pointed behind him.
+
+"Right beyant is the thracks made by thimsilves and their animals, for
+the ground won't admit of their riding."
+
+"I wish it were otherwise," remarked Warren thoughtfully, "for I have
+had the hope that they might be so near the fort as to be safe. They are
+not, but we ought to join them quite soon. But, Tim," added his friend,
+as if alarmed by a new fear, "the Sioux must have learned of your flight
+long ago, and are now on your trail."
+
+"I must say that I'm forced to agree wid ye," was the reply of the
+Irishman, spoken as though the question was of trifling import.
+
+"It won't do for us to stay here. They are liable to appear at any
+moment," and the alarmed youth glanced apprehensively around, as if he
+expected to see the whole party of hostiles burst through upon them.
+
+"Jack is strong enough to carry us a long way," he added, "and since he
+is close at hand I can lead him out on the open plain, where we shall
+gain such a good start that there will be little chance of their
+overtaking us."
+
+"No doubt ye are corrict."
+
+"Then let's do it without throwing away another moment."
+
+He turned hurriedly to carry out his own purpose, when his comrade laid
+his hand on his arm and detained him.
+
+"I think, Warry," he said, in a low voice, "that ye've forgot one
+matter--yer fayther, mither, and Dot."
+
+"Gracious! how came I to do that? Here I set out to hunt for them, and
+when they were as good as found I turn my back upon them, and think only
+of my own safety."
+
+"Ye are excoosable, since ye have been upsit by the thrifling
+occurrences that have been going on this day."
+
+"Take me to the spot where you left their trail," added Warren, with
+unusual excitement, "and we'll never leave it until we join them; we
+shall escape or die together."
+
+The youths moved like those who knew that the question of life and death
+must be settled within a few minutes.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+THE LAST HOPE.
+
+
+The young ranchers had to go but a short distance, when they struck the
+trail left by their friends. The snow rendered it so distinct that the
+first glance told the story. Warren saw the track made by the feet of
+his father, mother, and little Dot. The consciousness that he was so
+near them profoundly affected the son.
+
+"There are several strange things about this," he remarked to Tim,
+halting for a minute before taking up the search in earnest; "we found
+it almost impossible for a horse to clamber up the ridge, and yet their
+two ponies have been to the very crest."
+
+"That's because they found an easy way to do it from the ither side,"
+was the sensible comment of Tim Brophy.
+
+"Of course, but father is away off the track. More than half a day has
+passed since he left home, and he is hardly a quarter of the way to
+Fort Meade."
+
+"He is just as near as we are, and he didn't start any sooner," was the
+significant remark of Tim Brophy.
+
+"But that was his destination when he set out, while our business has
+been to find him."
+
+"With no moon or stars to guide him last night, what means had he of
+keeping to the right coorse?"
+
+The question gave its own answer. The cause of this wandering was so
+self-evident that Warren Starr would not have asked it had he not been
+in such a state of mental agitation as a person feels when certain he is
+on the eve of some critical event.
+
+Reasoning with something like his usual coolness, the young rancher
+thought he saw the explanation of other matters which had puzzled him,
+but he bestowed little thought upon them, for his whole ambition for the
+time was to reach his parents.
+
+The trail which they were following led toward the open prairie, left by
+Warren but a short time before. It was evident that Mr. Starr was
+making for that, for their animals could not serve them so long as they
+continued in this rough section.
+
+"If I had been a little later," reflected the son, "I would have met
+them. That I did not proves that they cannot be far off."
+
+He was tempted to call or whistle, but that would have been rash, for if
+there was any one point on which he was certain, it was that the
+hostiles were hot on the trail of Tim Brophy. The real peril was from
+that direction, and several times he reminded the Irishman of the fact,
+though he needed not the warnings.
+
+A short distance farther and both stopped with an exclamation of dismay.
+The report of a weapon sounded from a point only a little way ahead.
+
+"That was not a rifle," said Warren, turning his white face on his
+companion; "it was a pistol."
+
+"Ye are corrict."
+
+"And it was fired by father."
+
+"I'm sure ye are right."
+
+"They have been attacked! come on! They need our help!"
+
+The youth dashed ahead, clambering over bowlders, darting around rocks,
+ducking his head to avoid the limbs, stumbling, but instantly regaining
+his feet, only intent on getting forward with the utmost possible speed.
+
+His companion found it hard work to keep up with him, but fortunately
+they had not far to run. Without the least warning of what was coming
+Warren Starr burst upon his astonished parents and little Dot, the rush
+being so impetuous that the rancher had his Winchester half raised to
+fire before he understood.
+
+At the feet of Mr. Starr lay the mare dead, killed by her master. While
+struggling over the rugged places she had slipped and broken her leg.
+The rancher mercifully put her out of her misery by placing the muzzle
+of his revolver to her forehead and sending a bullet through her brain.
+
+Mrs. Starr and Dot had turned away that they might not witness the
+painful sight, for they loved the creature. The arrival of the youths
+caused the mother to face quickly about, and the next moment she and
+her son were clasped in each other's arms, with Dot tugging at the coat
+of her big brother.
+
+"Warren, Warren, I guess you forgot me," she pleaded, when she thought
+the embrace had lasted long enough.
+
+"Forget you, my darling!" he repeated, catching her up and hugging the
+breath from her body; "never! we are together again, and only death
+shall separate us."
+
+The rancher had shaken the hand of Tim Brophy during this little
+by-play, and they exchanged a few words before father and son closed
+palms.
+
+Then the questions and answers came fast. Tim Brophy drew a little aside
+to where mother and child stood, and holding the tiny hand of Dot
+explained matters, while Warren did the same with his father.
+
+"Did you see us approaching when you started the fire?" asked Warren,
+after hurriedly telling his own story.
+
+"No, but I was quite sure, when your mother and I came to talk it over,
+that you would disregard my wishes about hurrying to the fort. We went
+astray in the darkness, and after a number of narrow escapes, as I have
+just related, found ourselves at the base of this ridge on the other
+side."
+
+"Did you recognize where you were?"
+
+"No; the points of the compass were all askew, and to save my life I
+couldn't get my bearings. But I was convinced that you were at no great
+distance, and decided to try the signal which Plummer and I had used
+before. Poor Plummer!"
+
+"Do you know anything about him?"
+
+Mr. Starr related what he had discovered, adding that the body was
+shockingly mutilated and stripped of its belongings.
+
+"The ascent of the ridge on the other side was quite easy, and we found
+no difficulty in leading the horses to the crest. There the fire was
+kindled. Knowing of the long stretch of level ground on this side, we
+set out without waiting to learn the result of the signal smoke. I knew
+that if you made your way to the spot where it was burning you would
+understand the situation, and the snow would show you how to follow us
+as fast as you desired."
+
+"Did you hear or see nothing of the Indians?"
+
+"We saw nothing of them, and were confident that the party with whom we
+had repeated encounters were thrown so far behind that we had good
+reason to believe they need be feared no longer. But all our hopes were
+scattered when we heard firing from the direction of the open plain.
+While fleeing from one party of hostiles we had almost run into another.
+I confess," added the father, "that for a minute I was in despair. Your
+mother, however, retained her courage, as she has from the first. She
+urged me to make for the level country, aiming for a point so far
+removed from the sounds of the guns that we would not be seen, unless
+some ill fortune overtook us. My haste in striving to do so caused the
+mare to fall and break her leg. I could not bear the sight of her
+suffering, and though I knew the danger of the act, I put her out of her
+misery with a pistol-ball through her brain."
+
+"You little dreamed that Tim and I had a part in the firing of those
+guns which so alarmed you."
+
+"No; it did not occur to me; but we must not make the mistake of
+supposing we are yet out of danger."
+
+The experiences that had been hastily exchanged awakened the ranchers to
+the fact that they were still in imminent peril, for the Sioux were
+certain to follow Tim Brophy vigorously, and at that moment could not be
+far off.
+
+Mr. Starr beckoned to his wife and Tim to approach.
+
+"You understand matters," he said, "and the question is, what is best to
+do?"
+
+"Why not continue our flight?" asked the wife.
+
+"I would not hesitate a second were we not so fearfully handicapped.
+There are four of us, not counting Dot, and we have but two animals,
+provided Warren's pony can be found, which I very much doubt. True, we
+men can walk or take turns in riding, but if we continue our flight,
+speed is indispensable, and we would make a sorry show in our crippled
+condition. We would be absolutely helpless on the open prairie against
+the Sioux, all of whom, Warren tells me, have excellent horses."
+
+The rancher had a scheme in his mind, but before making it known he
+wished the views of the others.
+
+"It's mesilf that thinks this," said Tim Brophy; "let us go wid yees to
+the ridge of the prairie, and there mount Mr. Starr on Jack, while Mrs.
+Starr and Dot can take the ither. Thin, what is to hinder yees from
+going like a house afire for the foort?"
+
+"But what of you and Warren?" was the natural question of the rancher.
+
+"We'll cover yer retr'at."
+
+"The proposal does more credit to your heart than your head, but I
+cannot entertain it."
+
+"Nor will I listen to anything which compels us to separate again,"
+added the son decisively. "I do not believe you can reach Fort Meade
+without another fight, and the absence of Tim and me would destroy hope
+from the first."
+
+"But my idea," persisted the Irishman, "was to keep the fight away from
+the folks and have all the fun oursilves."
+
+"That would do if it were possible to arrange the business that way,"
+said Warren, "but the Sioux are the ones who have the decision in their
+hands, and while we were doing our best others would slip off and attack
+father and mother. If we remain together it must be otherwise. If there
+ever was a situation where union is strength this is one of them."
+
+"I've exhausted me resoorces," said Tim, withdrawing a step, as though
+he had nothing more to say. Leaving the others to decide, he took
+Warren's Winchester from his unresisting hand, and began watching for
+the approach of the Sioux, who he was certain were following the trail
+through the snow.
+
+One fact was apparent to him, and he considered it no unimportant
+advantage. The pursuers would advance at a speed that must bring them
+into sight before they could surprise the fugitives.
+
+A glance around showed that the rancher could not have selected a
+better place for defence. The bowlders were on all sides, there being a
+natural amphitheatre several rods in extent. Kneeling behind these the
+whites had a secure protection against their enemies, unless they should
+make an overwhelming rush--a course of action which is never popular
+with the American Indian, inasmuch as it involves much personal risk to
+the assailants.
+
+It was at his suggestion that the others seated themselves on the ground
+while holding their conference. When the Sioux should appear it would be
+on the trail made by the party, so that the Irishman knew where to look
+for them. He, too, crouched down, with the muzzle of the Winchester
+pointed between two of the bowlders, ready to fire on the first glimpse
+of a target.
+
+Even the pony was forced to lie down near the lifeless body of his
+comrade. So it was that anyone might have passed near the irregular
+circle of bowlders without a suspicion of who were within it.
+
+"I have but the one proposition to make," said Warren, seeing that his
+father was waiting for him to speak, "and that is to stay here and fight
+it out. We are strong enough to hold the Sioux at bay for a good while,
+perhaps long enough to discourage them."
+
+"And what have you to say, Molly?"
+
+"I cannot feel as hopeful as Warren, but it really seems to me that that
+is the only recourse left to us."
+
+"I do not agree with either of you," remarked the rancher, feeling that
+the time had come to announce his decision. "I formed my plan some
+minutes ago. It is the only one that offers the slightest hope, and I
+shall insist on its fulfilment to the letter. It is that Warren shall
+leave at once, find his pony if he can, mount him, and ride with all
+haste to the fort for assistance. Tim will stay behind with us to help
+fight. The time for discussion is past; we must act. Warren, make ready
+to leave this minute."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+AWAY! AWAY!
+
+
+When George Starr announced his decision to any member of his family no
+one presumed to question it. Had the son been disposed to do so in this
+instance he would have refrained, for he believed, with his parent, that
+he had made known their last and only hope.
+
+"I will go, father!"
+
+He was in the act of rising to his feet, when Tim Brophy discharged his
+rifle.
+
+"I plugged him," was his comment, as he peered through between the
+bowlders; "the spalpeen wasn't ixpicting the same, but that one won't
+bother us any more."
+
+Being in the act of rising at this moment, Warren shrank back again,
+undecided for the moment what to do, but hesitation was fatal, as his
+father saw.
+
+"Go," he said; "don't lose an instant; they are not on that side; you
+can slip off without being seen."
+
+The youth saw the force of the words. Crouching as low as possible, with
+the Sioux rifle in his hand, he passed between the bowlders opposite to
+the point at which Tim had fired, and which, therefore, was in the
+direction of the open prairie.
+
+The move was one of those in which success depends wholly upon
+promptness. The Sioux would speedily dispose themselves so as to prevent
+anyone leaving, as soon as they found that the parties whom they were
+seeking were at bay among the bowlders. Fortunate, therefore, was it
+that no delay took place in the flight of young Starr, even though, when
+he started, the enemy was at the gate.
+
+It required no very skilful woodcraft for him to get away, since it was
+not anticipated by the Sioux, and he had the best means for concealing
+himself.
+
+There had been one idea in the mind of the rancher, which he would have
+carried out but for the sudden appearance of the Indians; that was for
+his son to take the remaining pony with him. The fugitives could make no
+use of him, and should it prove that Jack was gone, his owner would not
+be without the means of pushing to Fort Meade for help. Circumstances,
+however, prevented that precaution. It never would have done to attempt
+to take the remaining pony. Warren quickly vanished among the trees and
+bowlders, and the Rubicon was crossed.
+
+But Jack was found just where he had been left, patiently awaiting the
+return of his master. The pursuit of Tim Brophy by the Sioux had led
+them in a different direction, though, had the flight of Warren been
+postponed for a short time, the steed must have fallen into the hands of
+the enemy.
+
+The heart of the youth gave a bound of delight when he came upon the
+animal.
+
+"Follow me, Jack," he said cheerily; "if you ever did your best, now is
+the time. The lives of us all depend upon you. Have a care, my boy, or
+you will slip."
+
+In his eagerness the youth descended the slope faster than was prudent.
+Jack did slip, but quickly recovered himself, and no harm seemed to
+have been done.
+
+It was but a short way to the edge of the prairie, where the pause was
+long enough to see that the trappings were right, when the young rancher
+swung himself into the saddle, twitched the rein, and said:
+
+"Come!"
+
+The gallant fellow, with a sniff of delight, sprang away, and sped with
+a swiftness which few of his kind could surpass. The snowy plain
+stretched in front, and he darted over it as though his hoofs scorned
+the earth. The still air became a gale, which whistled about the ears of
+the youth, who felt the thrill that comes to one when coursing on the
+back of a noble horse to whom the rapid flight is as pleasant as to the
+rider.
+
+It was now near meridian. A long distance remained to be passed, and
+since a goodly portion of it was rough and precipitous, the young
+rancher felt little hope of reaching Fort Meade before nightfall.
+
+"If we could have such travelling as this," he reflected, "we would be
+there in a few hours, but there are places where you will have to walk,
+and others where it will be hard work to travel at all."
+
+It was a discomforting thought, but it was the fact; since the youth was
+not following the regular trail leading from the ranch to the fort at
+the foot of the Black Hills. But his familiarity with the country and
+the daylight ensured him against going astray; he was certain to do the
+best possible thing under the circumstances.
+
+Two miles had been passed at this brilliant pace, and Warren was as
+hopeful as ever, when he became aware of an alarming truth, and one
+which caused a feeling of consternation--Jack was falling lame. That
+slip made in descending the lower part of the ridge, just before his
+owner mounted him, was more serious than he had suspected. It had
+injured the ankle of the horse so that, despite the gallantry with which
+he struggled, it not only troubled him, but with every leap he made over
+the plain it grew worse.
+
+It was a condition of things enough to cause consternation on the part
+of the rider, for it put an end to his hope of reaching the fort that
+day. True, he could continue the advance on foot, but, doing his utmost,
+he could not arrive before late at night--so late, indeed, that no help
+would be sent out before the morning, and they could not reach the
+beleaguered fugitives until late on the following day.
+
+"Can they hold out until then?"
+
+That was the question which was ever in the young rancher's mind and
+which he dare not answer as he believed the probabilities required.
+
+There was no getting away from the fearful truth. The vigilance of his
+father and Tim might enable them to stand off the Sioux as long as
+daylight lasted. Each had an excellent magazine rifle, for it will be
+remembered that he had exchanged weapons with his young friend, but
+there was not only a formidable party of bucks surrounding them,
+shutting off all possibility of their slipping off during the darkness,
+but other Sioux were in the neighborhood who could be readily summoned
+to the spot.
+
+Darkness is the favorite time with the red men when moving against an
+enemy, and they would probably make no determined demonstration until
+the night was well advanced. Then, when they should rush over the
+bowlders, nothing could save the fugitives. Should this emergency arise,
+Warren Starr felt that everything was lost, and he was right.
+
+He weakly hoped that Jack would recover from his lameness, but all know
+how vain is such an expectation. The injury rapidly grew worse, so that
+when the animal dropped his gait to a trot and then to a walk, Warren
+had not the heart to urge him farther.
+
+Slipping from the saddle he examined the hurt. It was near the fetlock
+of the left hind leg. The skin was abraded; the ankle evidently had been
+wrenched. It was swollen, and when the youth passed his hand gently over
+it, the start and shrinking of the creature showed that it was
+excessively painful to him.
+
+"It's no use, Jack," said the lad; "I know you would give your life for
+me, but you can't travel on three legs, and I'm not going to make you
+suffer when it can do us no good."
+
+Manifestly there was but one course open--that was to abandon the pony
+and press on as fast as he could on foot. Jack could get along for a day
+or two, and his master would not forget to look after him on the first
+opportunity.
+
+There was no call to burden himself with the saddle and bridle, but they
+would prove an incumbrance to the animal if left upon him, and his owner
+was too considerate to commit the oversight.
+
+In riding so fast the young rancher had followed the general course of
+the ridge, so that on halting he was quite near it. He now turned to his
+right, calling upon Jack to follow.
+
+The action of the pony was pitiful. When he bore a part of his weight on
+the limb, after the brief halt, it had become so painful as to be almost
+useless. Nevertheless he hobbled forward until the foot of the slope was
+reached.
+
+Here Warren removed the trappings. His blanket being rolled behind the
+saddle, he spread it over the back of the horse and secured it in
+place.
+
+"It is all I can do for you, Jack," he said tenderly, "and it will give
+you protection against the cold. You will be able to find a few blades
+of grass here and there where the snow has not covered them, and the
+buds of the trees will give some help. The snow will prevent your
+suffering much from want of water. Perhaps a good long rest will improve
+your ankle so that you can use it. If it does," and here the young
+rancher spoke impressively, as though he expected his steed to
+understand his words, "I want you to start for the fort; don't forget
+that!"
+
+He touched his lips to the forehead of his faithful ally, who looked
+after his young master, as he walked away, with an expression almost
+human in its affection. But there was no help for it, and with a sad
+heart, but the determination to do his utmost, Warren Starr resumed his
+journey toward Fort Meade.
+
+Not long after parting with his pony he came upon something which caused
+him surprise. In the snow directly in front appeared the footprints of a
+single horse that had passed over the ground on a run, taking the same
+direction that the youth was following.
+
+His experience with horses told the youth at a first glance that the
+animal was travelling at his utmost speed. The trail swerved inward from
+the open plain, as though the rider had sought the base of the ridge for
+his protection.
+
+Had there been several ponies coursing ahead of him, he would not have
+found it so hard to understand matters, for he would have concluded that
+they were an independent party, making all haste to reach some point,
+but he could not read the meaning of a single warrior speeding in this
+fashion.
+
+"Whoever he was he lost no time," mused Warren, breaking into a loping
+trot, for his own haste was great.
+
+Had he not known that poor Jared Plummer was no longer among the living,
+he would have thought it possible that he was making for Fort Meade. He
+wondered whether it could not be a white man engaged on a similar
+errand.
+
+The probabilities were against this supposition. He knew of no rancher
+in the neighborhood of his old home, and it would seem that no white man
+would ride with such desperation unless pursued by a relentless enemy,
+and he saw no evidence of such a contest of speed.
+
+True, the pursuers might have been farther out on the prairie, but their
+trail would have joined that of the fugitive ere long, so as to make the
+line more direct; but though the young rancher trotted a full half mile
+before checking himself and looking around, he discovered no signs of
+others.
+
+The last advance of Warren brought him close to the precipitous section
+which, knowing well, he had feared would prove too difficult for his
+pony. Raising his eyes to survey it and fix upon the best line to
+follow, he caught sight of the horseman he had been following.
+
+His animal was on a deliberate walk, and coming directly toward him. The
+youth stopped short. As he did so he perceived that he was an Indian
+warrior. Warren brought his rifle round in front, with no intention of
+running from him or taking advantage of the cover near at hand.
+
+The Indian raised his hand, and oscillated it as a signal of comity. As
+he did so the two were so near that the youth perceived that the arm was
+bandaged. Something familiar in the appearance of the horseman struck
+him at the same moment, and the young rancher lowered his weapon with
+the exclamation:
+
+"Starcus!"
+
+It was he, and as he rode forward he had a strange story to tell Warren
+Starr.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+BREAD CAST UPON THE WATERS.
+
+
+When the Sioux who had rushed out on the open plain to the help of the
+wounded Starcus gathered around him they were quick to perceive that his
+life was due to the mercy of his conqueror, but their hostility toward
+the latter was not diminished one whit by the discovery; they were as
+eager for his life as ever, and proved it by firing several shots after
+him as he rode away.
+
+The wounded arm was bandaged in a piece of the lining of Warren Starr's
+coat. The crimson stain showed through the cloth, though the flow of
+blood was checked. Sound and unhurt as was Starcus in all other
+respects, he was unable to use the injured limb, and was therefore as
+useless in any impending hostilities as if out of existence.
+
+As the party moved back toward the base of the ridge there was a
+consultation among them as to what was best to do. Starcus expressed a
+more venomous rancor than ever against the white people, and especially
+against the one that had brought him low. He regretted that he was to be
+helpless for weeks to come, with a permanent injury for life.
+
+When the leader of the band suggested that he should return to the
+nearest village and remain until able to take the warpath again, he
+vehemently opposed it. He was not willing to retire in such a
+humiliating manner, but the leader insisted, and after sulking a while
+the "civilized" Indian consented.
+
+Being a capital horseman, he leaped unassisted upon his pony, and
+unwilling in his anger so much as to bid the warriors good-by, he struck
+the animal into a swift gallop, heading toward the village, where he was
+expected to stay until fully recovered.
+
+The action of the warrior was singular. After riding some distance he
+glanced behind him at the ridge he had left. He seemed to be in an
+irritable mood, for he uttered an impatient exclamation and urged his
+beast to a faster gait. His wound pained him, but the agitation of his
+mind and his own stoical nature caused him to pay no heed to it. Indeed
+nothing more could be done for the hurt.
+
+When he looked back the second time he had reached a point for which he
+had been making since his departure. He was out of sight of any of his
+people who might be watching him.
+
+An abrupt change in the course of his pony was instantly made, and he
+sent him flying at the height of his speed. Strange as it may seem, he
+was aiming for the same point toward which Warren Starr started some
+time later.
+
+He did not spare his animal. He went like a whirlwind, and as though his
+life depended upon reaching his destination without delay. Warren Starr
+read the trail aright when he interpreted it as meaning that the pony
+before him was going as fast as he could.
+
+Starcus was picking his way, still mounted, over the rough section where
+the youth had expected to meet great difficulty with his animal, when
+he suddenly discovered that white people were immediately in his front.
+He drew up, and was in doubt for a minute whether to flee or hold his
+ground.
+
+A squad of cavalry from Fort Meade confronted him. They numbered nearly
+twenty, under the command of a young lieutenant, a recent graduate of
+West Point. They were accompanied by a couple of Indian scouts familiar
+with the country.
+
+Starcus was quick to make a signal of friendship, and then rode forward
+to meet the soldiers, who had halted upon seeing him.
+
+The Sioux was well known to the two Indians, the officer, and several of
+the cavalry. They knew he had joined the hostiles, and were therefore
+suspicious of him. This fact rendered his self-imposed task one of
+considerable difficulty. But after a while he convinced them of his
+honesty.
+
+The lieutenant had been sent out by the commandant at Fort Meade to
+bring in the rancher and his family, their scouts having reported them
+in imminent danger. Starcus explained that the parties for whom they
+were looking were at no great distance, having left the ranch the night
+before to hasten to the fort. One of the ranchmen had been killed, and
+the rest were in great peril. Starcus said he had started to ride to the
+fort for help, and it was most fortunate that he encountered it so near,
+when the passing moments were beyond importance.
+
+The young officer was sagacious. He could have asked some very
+embarrassing questions relating to the wound of the messenger, but he
+wisely forbore. It is not best at all times to let a person know how
+much is plain to you and how much you suspect. Evidently Starcus was
+earnest in his desire to befriend the imperilled ones; the fact that he
+was journeying alone in the direction of the fort constituting the
+strongest evidence.
+
+He explained that the ridge where he believed the whites were doing
+their best to escape the Sioux was much more approachable from the other
+side. He described the ground minutely, and the two scouts present
+confirmed the accuracy of his statements.
+
+When the lieutenant proposed that Starcus should act as their guide the
+truth could no longer be kept back. He made a clean breast of
+everything.
+
+He had been with the hostiles. He was among the fiercest. He had tried
+to shoot young Starr, who, more fortunate than he, brought him wounded
+from his horse. When he lay on the ground, at his mercy, the young man
+rode up, spoke words of kindness, and bandaged his wound.
+
+And in doing this the youth proved more of a conqueror than he had done
+by his excellent marksmanship. He won the heart of the Indian, who was
+now eager to prove his gratitude by any act in his power. He
+unhesitatingly answered that he would serve as the guide to the cavalry.
+
+But once again the officer displayed rare tact. If Starcus was sincere
+in his newly awakened friendship for the whites, it might be in his
+power to accomplish a great deal of good by going among his people and
+using persuasion and argument; but if he should appear as an active ally
+of the whites such power would be gone, and it would be unsafe at any
+time in the future to trust himself among them.
+
+"No," replied the lieutenant; "return to your own people; do what you
+can to show them the mistake they are making in taking the warpath; you
+may effect much good. My guides will do as well as you to direct us to
+the spot where the whites are in urgent need of our help. You say it is
+not far, and I am hopeful that we shall be in time to save them."
+
+Accordingly Starcus parted from the cavalry, and was on his return to
+join his people and to attempt to carry out the wise suggestion of the
+officer, when he encountered the young rancher making all haste on foot
+to secure the help which was much nearer than he had dared to hope.
+
+After exchanging friendly greetings, Starcus told the story which the
+reader has just learned.
+
+Warren listened with amazement and delight. He had, indeed, heaped coals
+of fire upon his enemy's head by his forbearance, and the bread cast
+upon the waters had returned before many days.
+
+"You have acted nobly," was the comment of the youth.
+
+"Can it undo the harm of the last few days?" asked the Indian, with a
+troubled expression.
+
+"Far more, for I am sure the timely news given to the lieutenant will
+save my people."
+
+"And yet I was their enemy."
+
+"And are now their friend. You lost your head in the frenzy that is
+spreading like a prairie fire among your people; your footsteps were
+guided by Providence, otherwise you would have missed the cavalry; they
+would have ridden to the ranch, and my folks would have been left as
+much without their help as though the soldiers had stayed at the fort.
+Besides," added the young rancher, "you can do as the officer
+suggested--show your own people the right course for them to follow."
+
+"I will try," replied Starcus firmly; "I cannot understand how it was my
+senses forsook me, but they have come back, and," he said, with a
+meaning smile, "I think they will stay."
+
+"I am sure of that, and you will do much good."
+
+"Well, good-by," said Starcus, reaching down his unwounded arm. "I hope
+we shall meet again under pleasanter conditions."
+
+Warren warmly pressed the hand and stood for a minute gazing after the
+strange fellow, who rode toward the nearest Indian village with the
+determination to carry out his new intentions.
+
+It may as well be said that he honestly did so, and there is little
+doubt that his work was effective in more than one respect, and did much
+to ameliorate many phases of the sad incidents that speedily followed.
+
+Left alone once more, the young rancher stood for some minutes in doubt
+as to his right course. It was idle to push on to the fort on foot, and
+he was at much disadvantage, now that he had no animal at command. He
+decided to follow the cavalry.
+
+He had forgotten to ask Starcus how far off they were, but judged the
+distance was not great. The trail of the Indian's horse gave him the
+necessary guidance, and he broke once more into his loping trot,
+despite the rough nature of the ground.
+
+A half-hour sufficed to take him to the scene of meeting, when he turned
+and began following the footprints of the horses at a faster gait than
+before.
+
+Inasmuch as he was now a goodly number of miles from the bowlders where
+his friends were at bay before the attacking Sioux, he hardly expected
+to reach the place in time to take a hand in the decisive scenes or even
+to witness them. Starcus had left such accurate directions, and the
+Indian guides were so familiar with everything, that little delay was
+probable.
+
+The distant sound of firing spurred him to still greater speed, and he
+ran so fast and hard that ere long he was compelled to drop to a walk to
+regain his breath.
+
+Great as was his hope, he felt much misgiving. The cavalry might arrive
+in time, but in the flurry sad mishaps were probable. It might be that
+his father or mother or Dot or Tim had fallen before the vigilance of
+the assailants. He could not feel any real happiness until he learned
+beyond peradventure that all was well.
+
+The shot fired by Tim Brophy the instant he caught sight of the warrior
+hurrying along the trail, with no thought that he was so close to the
+whites, was the best thing in every way that could have happened, for it
+not only wiped out the rash miscreant, but told those immediately behind
+him that the fugitives were at bay and ready to fight to the bitter end.
+
+There was an instant withdrawal beyond reach of the rifles, of whose
+effectiveness they had received more than one striking example that
+night.
+
+It took a considerable while for the Sioux to learn the whole truth. The
+fugitives had intrenched themselves in what was undoubtedly the most
+secure position near, and were on the watch. Gradually working round so
+as to enclose them against flight, the trail of the young rancher was
+discovered. A little investigation made known that he had mounted his
+pony and started off for assistance.
+
+But help was no nearer than Fort Meade, and, as the Indians naturally
+thought, it could not possibly arrive before the morrow. If this were
+so, abundant time remained in which to encompass the destruction of the
+defenders. The Sioux decided to maintain watch, but to defer the
+decisive assault until late at night.
+
+And it was this decision that saved the little party. Within the
+following two hours the friendly scouts reported the situation to the
+lieutenant of cavalry, who began his arrangements for an immediate
+attack upon the hostiles.
+
+The latter, however, were as watchful as their enemies, and were quick
+to learn their new danger. They withdrew and disappeared after the
+exchange of a few shots, fired under such circumstances that no harm was
+done on either side.
+
+The rescued whites were conducted to the foot of the ridge on the other
+side, where they were so disposed among their friends that all were
+furnished with transportation, and the journey to Fort Meade was begun,
+or rather resumed so far as they were concerned.
+
+Not far away they met the young rancher, breathless and in an agony of
+distress. His joy may be imagined upon learning the happy truth. All
+were saved without so much as a hair of their heads being harmed.
+
+The next day Warren returned for his pony, and found him so much better
+that he was able to walk with little trouble. The youth was too
+considerate to ask him to carry any load, and the two made the journey
+with the rider on foot.
+
+And so it came about that Providence mercifully extricated our friends
+from the danger which threatened more than once the ruin of all.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
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+      The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis.
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+
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Ranchers
+       or Fighting the Sioux
+
+Author: Edward S. Ellis
+
+Release Date: March 15, 2009 [EBook #28331]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE YOUNG RANCHERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Internet Archive)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+<h1>THE YOUNG RANCHERS</h1>
+
+<h3>OR <i>FIGHTING THE SIOUX</i></h3>
+
+<h3>"FOREST AND PRAIRIE SERIES," No. 3.</h3>
+
+<h2>BY EDWARD S. ELLIS</h2>
+
+<h3>AUTHOR OF "BOY PIONEER SERIES," "DEERFOOT SERIES," "WILDWOOD SERIES,"
+ETC.</h3>
+
+
+<h3>PHILADELPHIA<br />
+HENRY T. COATES &amp; CO.</h3>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Copyright</span>, 1895,<br />
+BY<br />
+PORTER &amp; COATES.</h3>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="frontis" id="frontis"></a>
+<img src="images/frontis.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The death of the faithful messenger.</span></h3>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>CONTENTS.</h2>
+
+<!-- Autogenerated TOC. Modify or delete as required. -->
+<p>
+<a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I. <span class="smcap">Danger Ahead</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II. <span class="smcap">The Voiceless Friend</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III. <span class="smcap">Companions in Peril</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV. <span class="smcap">Tim Brophy's Discovery</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V. <span class="smcap">Leaving the Ranch</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI. "<span class="smcap">Timothy Brophy, Esq., at your Service</span>"</a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII. <span class="smcap">Stirring Times</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII. <span class="smcap">Starcus</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX. <span class="smcap">On the Bank of a Stream</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X. <span class="smcap">Bent Arm and His Band</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI. <span class="smcap">At Bay</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII. <span class="smcap">Facing Westward</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII. <span class="smcap">In the Fringe of the Woods</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV. <span class="smcap">Turned Back</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV. <span class="smcap">Missing</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI. <span class="smcap">A Thief of the Night</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII. <span class="smcap">Through the Wood</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII. <span class="smcap">Night and Morning</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX. <span class="smcap">A Startling Surprise</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX. <span class="smcap">A Run for Life</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI. <span class="smcap">Away We Go!</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII. <span class="smcap">On Foot</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII. <span class="smcap">Down!</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV. <span class="smcap">The Friend in Need</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV. <span class="smcap">The Prairie Duel</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI. <span class="smcap">On the Ground</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII. <span class="smcap">A Good Samaritan</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII">CHAPTER XXVIII. <span class="smcap">The Lone Horseman</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX">CHAPTER XXIX. <span class="smcap">A Break for Freedom</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXX">CHAPTER XXX. <span class="smcap">Comrades Again</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXXI">CHAPTER XXXI. <span class="smcap">The Last Hope</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXXII">CHAPTER XXXII. <span class="smcap">Away! Away!</span></a><br />
+<a href="#CHAPTER_XXXIII">CHAPTER XXXIII. <span class="smcap">Bread Cast upon the Waters</span></a><br />
+</p>
+<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. -->
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS</h2>
+
+
+<p><a href="#frontis"><span class="smcap">The death of the faithful messenger.</span></a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus1"><span class="smcap">A hot pursuit.</span></a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus2"><span class="smcap">Tim's fortunate shot.</span></a></p>
+
+<p><a href="#illus3"><span class="smcap">The death of the Indian.</span></a></p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2>THE YOUNG RANCHERS;</h2>
+
+<h3>OR,</h3>
+
+<h2>FIGHTING THE SIOUX.</h2>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<h3>DANGER AHEAD.</h3>
+
+
+<p>There was snow in the air. Warren Starr had felt it ever since meridian,
+though not a flake had fallen, and the storm might be delayed for hours
+yet to come. There was no mistaking the dull leaden sky, the chill in
+the atmosphere, and that dark, increasing gloom which overspreads the
+heavens at such times.</p>
+
+<p>Young Warren was a fine specimen of the young hunter, though he had not
+yet passed his nineteenth year. His home was in South Dakota, and he was
+now on his return from Fort Meade, at the eastern foot of the Black
+Hills, and had fully twenty miles to travel, though the sun was low in
+the horizon, as he well knew, even if it was veiled by the snow vapor.</p>
+
+<p>His father's ranch lay to the north of the Big Cheyenne, and the son was
+familiar with every foot of the ground, having traversed it many a time,
+not only on his visits to the fort, but in the numerous hunting
+excursions of which he was so fond. He could have made the journey by
+night, when no moon was in the sky, had there been need of doing so, but
+he decided that it was better to give his pony the rest he required, and
+to push on at an early hour the next morning. He had eaten nothing since
+the noon halt, and his youth and vigor gave him a powerful appetite, but
+he had learned long before that one of the first requisites of the
+hunter is to learn to endure cold, heat, hunger, and hardship
+unmurmuringly.</p>
+
+<p>But the youth was in so uneasy a mental state that he rode slowly for
+nearly an hour, debating with himself whether to draw rein or push on.
+The rumors of trouble among the Sioux were confirmed by his visit to
+Fort Meade. A spirit of unrest had prevailed for a long time, caused by
+the machinations of that marplot, Sitting Bull, the harangues of
+medicine men who proclaimed the coming Messiah, the ghost dances, the
+eagerness of the young bucks to take the warpath, and the universal
+belief that the last opportunity for the red men to turn back the
+advance of the Caucasian race was to be made soon or never.</p>
+
+<p>The fact that our Government had its military posts scattered through
+the disaffected country, that the Indian reservations were comparatively
+well governed, that the officers were men whose valor and skill had been
+proven times without number, and that these authorities were keeping
+close watch on the growing disaffection produced a quieting effect in
+many quarters, though the best informed men foresaw the impending storm.
+That which troubled Warren Starr on his lonely ride northward was the
+fact that on that ranch, twenty miles away, dwelt his father, mother,
+and little sister, known by the pet name of Dot. His father had two
+assistants in the care of the ranch, Jared Plummer, a man in middle
+life, and Tim Brophy, a lusty young Irishman, about the same age as
+Warren. But the ranch was not fitted to withstand an attack from any of
+the bands through the country. Those turbulent bucks were the very ones
+to assail his home with the fury of a cyclone, and if they did, Heaven
+help the loved ones there, even though the three men were well provided
+with arms and ammunition.</p>
+
+<p>The commandant of Fort Meade suggested to Warren that he urge his people
+to come into the fort without delay. Such a suggestion, coming from the
+officer, meant a good deal.</p>
+
+<p>That which caused the youth to decide to wait until morning was the
+fatigue of his animal, and the more important fact that it was best not
+only to arrive at the ranch in the daytime, but to ride through several
+miles of the surrounding country when the chance to use his eyes was at
+the best. If hostiles were in the section, he might pass within a
+hundred yards of them in the darkness without discovering it, but it was
+impossible to do so when the sun was in the sky.</p>
+
+<p>He was now riding across an open plain directly toward a small branch of
+the Big Cheyenne, beyond which lay his home. He could already detect the
+fringe of timber that lined both sides of the winding stream, while to
+the right rose a rocky ridge several hundred feet in height, and a mile
+or two distant appeared a similar range on the left.</p>
+
+<p>The well-marked trail which the lad was following passed between these
+elevations; that on the right first presenting itself and diverging so
+far to the east, just before the other ridge was reached, that it may be
+said it disappeared, leaving the other to succeed it.</p>
+
+<p>Despite the long ride and the fatigue of himself as well as his animal,
+young Starr was on the alert. He was in a dangerous country, and a
+little negligence on his part was liable to prove fatal.</p>
+
+<p>"If there is a lot of Sioux watching this trail for parties going either
+way, this is the spot," he reflected, grasping his Winchester, lying
+across his saddle, a little more firmly. "I have met them here more than
+once, and, though they claimed to be friendly, I was always uneasy, for
+it is hard for an Indian to resist the temptation to hurt a white man
+when it looks safe to do so."</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could have exceeded the caution of the youth. The trail showed
+so plainly that his pony kept to it without any guidance on his part,
+and the reins lay loose on his neck. Every minute or two the rider
+glanced furtively behind him to make sure no treacherous enemy was
+stealing upon him unawares; and then, after a hasty look to the right
+and left, he scanned the rocky ridge on his right, peering forward the
+next moment at the one farther off on his left.</p>
+
+<p>He was searching for that which he did not want to find&mdash;signs of red
+men. He knew a good deal of their system of telegraphy, and half
+suspected that some keen-eyed Sioux was crouching behind the rocks of
+the ridge, awaiting the moment to signal his approach to his confederate
+farther away.</p>
+
+<p>It might have seemed possible to some to flank the danger by turning far
+to the right or left, but that would have involved a long detour and
+delay in arriving home. At the same time, if any warriors were on the
+watch, they could easily checkmate him by accommodating their movements
+to his, and continually heading him off, whichever direction he took. He
+had considered all these contingencies, and felt no hesitation in
+pressing straight forward, despite the apparent peril involved in doing
+so.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly Jack pricked his ears and raised his head, emitting at the same
+time a slight whiff through his nostrils.</p>
+
+<p>No words could have said more plainly: "Beware, master! I have
+discovered something."</p>
+
+<p>The rider's natural supposition was that the danger, whatever it might
+be, was on the crest of the ridge he was approaching; but, when he
+shaded his eyes and peered forward, he was unable to detect anything at
+all. Enough light remained in the sky for him to use his excellent eyes
+to the best advantage, but nothing rewarded the scrutiny.</p>
+
+<p>Jack continued advancing, though his gait was now a slow walk, as if he
+expected his master to halt altogether; but the latter acted like the
+skilful railway engineer, who, seeing the danger signal ahead, continues
+creeping slowly toward it, ready to check his train on the instant it
+becomes necessary to do so. He allowed the pony to step tardily forward,
+while he strove to locate the point whence peril threatened.</p>
+
+<p>"What the mischief do you see, Jack?" he asked, in a half-impatient
+tone; "if I didn't know you never joked, I would believe you were trying
+some trick on me to get me to camp for the night."</p>
+
+<p>Once the horseman fancied he caught the faint outlines of a thin column
+of smoke climbing into the sky from the crest of the ridge, but closer
+study convinced him that he was wrong. If such a signal were kindled, it
+must be clear enough to be recognized from the farther elevation, which
+was more distant than the horseman.</p>
+
+<p>"I shall observe the vapor as soon as they," he thought, "for my eyes
+are as sharp&mdash;helloa! that beats the mischief!"</p>
+
+<p>At last Warren Starr learned what it was that had alarmed his pony.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE VOICELESS FRIEND.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The keen eyes, instead of looking at the crest of the rocky ridge on his
+right, were now centred on the ground, where they detected a small dark
+speck swiftly approaching the horseman. At the first glance, the object
+suggested a cannon-ball rolling with great speed toward the pony, that
+was now standing still, with head erect, ears thrown forward, and the
+appearance of perplexed interest in the thing, whatever it might be.</p>
+
+<p>For a minute Warren Starr was unable to guess the meaning of the
+singular sight. Whatever its nature, it was evident that it was aiming
+to reach the rider with the least possible delay. The latter drew his
+Winchester around in front, so as to be ready to receive it, his first
+thought being that it was some Sioux stratagem designed to do him ill.</p>
+
+<p>But while he gazed, he discovered its identity; it was a dog, running as
+if its very life were at stake. The next instant young Starr perceived
+something protruding from the front part of its body, resembling the
+ornamental feather in an Indian's head-dress.</p>
+
+<p>"It is an arrow!" he exclaimed. "The poor creature is badly wounded, and
+is striving to reach me before he dies. By gracious, it's Bruno!" he
+added, as a closer approach enabled him to identify the creature. "He
+brings me some message."</p>
+
+<p>Bruno was his favorite hound, that had accompanied him on many a hunting
+excursion, and whom he loved scarcely less than Jack, his pony.</p>
+
+<p>It was indeed a race with death on the part of the faithful animal.
+While yet a number of rods distant, he staggered, faltered, then
+gathering his energies pressed on with the last strength he could
+summon, and with a low moan rolled languidly on his side, and looking
+upward with a human expression to his young master, said by his action:
+"I have done the best I could for you, and I am content."</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr was out of the saddle like a flash, and ran forward to him.
+Stooping down, he placed one arm under the head of the noble dog, and,
+leaning over, touched his lips to the velvety forehead.</p>
+
+<p>"My poor Bruno, they have killed you!" he murmured, with tears in his
+eyes. "I would give an arm to save you, but it is too late."</p>
+
+<p>He saw that the head of the arrow was sunken deep into the neck, and the
+dark coat was splashed with crimson. To attempt to withdraw the missile
+was useless. It could only deepen the agony of the animal without
+relieving him in the least. He was doomed and dying before he sank to
+the ground.</p>
+
+<p>Bruno turned his beautiful eyes upward to his master, emitted a low
+moan, gave a slight quiver and gasp, and was dead. No martyr ever did
+his duty more heroically.</p>
+
+<p>For a few moments Warren Starr yielded to his grief. He remained with
+the exquisitely formed head resting on his arm, while the tears fell
+from his eyes on the form that could never respond again to his
+caresses. Then he gently withdrew his arm and suffered the head to rest
+on the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"Your last act was for those you love," he murmured; "you gave your life
+for us, and no man could do more. No one shall take from me the faith
+that we shall be happy together beyond the grave. Good-by, my true and
+faithful friend."</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr was too experienced a scout, despite his youth, to forget in
+his grief the full significance of the sad incident. The hound had
+travelled the long distance from the ranch to this point for the purpose
+of bringing him a message. He had been discovered while on the road, and
+fired upon by the Indians, who were so near that they used bows and
+arrows to prevent the young master taking the alarm. Many missiles were
+doubtless sent after the animal, and one was fated to bring him down,
+though not until he had accomplished his errand.</p>
+
+<p>Warren knew where to look for the message. He unstrapped the collar,
+with its silver plate&mdash;which he would have done under any circumstance
+to keep as a remembrance of his voiceless friend&mdash;and there, carefully
+folded and secure under the band, was a piece of paper, containing
+considerable writing in lead-pencil:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">Dear Warren</span>:</p>
+
+<p>Don't come to the ranch. It is sure death to undertake it. A party
+of twenty and more bucks are near us. They have killed or stampeded
+our cattle, and will attack us this evening if we remain, which we
+shall not do. Tim discovered them this afternoon, and learned
+enough to make sure of their intention. We shall mount our horses
+and start for Fort Meade. We dare not use the regular trail, along
+which I suppose you are making your way, but must be guided by
+circumstances. I think we shall move to the westward, taking the
+most direct route to the post, but are likely to be forced into a
+long detour, which renders it impossible for me to give you any
+direction by which we can meet each other.</p>
+
+<p>I know that your impulse will be to try to join us before we reach
+the fort, but it is my earnest wish that you shall not attempt it.
+Turn about at once, while you have time, and retrace your steps. If
+a day or two shall pass without our coming in, perhaps it may be
+well to ask the colonel to send out a squad of cavalry to help us,
+for it is idle to fancy we are not in great peril. It is my prayer
+that Bruno shall intercept you in time to prevent any mishap. I
+have instructed him precisely what he is expected to do, and he not
+only fully understands, but, as you well know, will do it if it be
+possible.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">Your Father.</span></p></div>
+
+<p>"You were right," said the youth gently, looking down once more on the
+inanimate form. "Bruno did his duty, and he deserves a monument for
+having done it so well."</p>
+
+<p>All this time the pony stood some feet away, motionless, and apparently
+a deeply interested witness of the singular scene.</p>
+
+<p>He was too well trained to leave his master, who never resorted to the
+precaution of securing him by his halter.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile night was closing in. The gloom was overspreading the prairie
+so that the ridge, which had been such a cause for solicitude to the
+youth, was now dimly discernible. In a few minutes it would be swallowed
+up in the coming darkness.</p>
+
+<p>Resolutely forcing his sadness aside, Warren knelt down and pressed his
+ear to the ground. If horsemen were approaching he could detect it
+through the sense of hearing.</p>
+
+<p>Then he climbed once more into the saddle and faced the ridge, debating
+with himself what was the right course to pursue. His father had said in
+unmistakable language that he wished him to return to Fort Meade.
+Warren was a dutiful son, but he could not persuade himself that that
+was the best thing to do. To follow his parent's wishes would require
+him to look after his own safety, and to forget those whose lives were
+dearer to him than his own. To return to the fort, and secure the aid
+that he knew would be cheerfully given, would take a day or two, during
+which the crisis must come and pass with his people. Two days at the
+most would settle the question whether they were to escape or fall
+victims to the ferocity of the Sioux.</p>
+
+<p>"I can't do it," he said, compressing his lips and shaking his head. "I
+have never played the coward, and I'm not going to begin when my folks
+are concerned. My first duty is to find out where father, mother, and
+Dot are, and then do all I can for their safety."</p>
+
+<p>It was not difficult to reach this conclusion, for which no one will
+deny him credit; but it was altogether a difficult and formidable task
+for him to decide what next to do.</p>
+
+<p>Had his friends been following the regular trail to the fort his course
+would have been simple, since he had only to continue on until he met
+them; but his father had notified him that not only would he not take
+that route, but he could not say which one he would adopt. He inclined
+to think he would turn to the westward, leaving the path on his left,
+but the question, as he said, must be settled by circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>Something cold touched his hand. It was a snowflake, and he knew that in
+a short time the ground would be wrapped in a mantle of white. Once more
+he glanced in the direction of the elevation, now invisible in the
+gathering darkness. On the utmost height a point of light appeared,
+shining for a moment with the steady radiance of a fixed star.</p>
+
+<p>"The bucks are there," concluded Warren; "they saw me from a long way,
+and must wonder why I am delayed&mdash;ah, sure enough!"</p>
+
+<p>All at once the gleaming light began circling about, faster and faster,
+until it looked like a wheel of fire. Then it reversed, whirling as
+swiftly in the opposite direction, then up and down, then from side to
+side, and finally, whiff! it vanished.</p>
+
+<p>A grim smile lit the face of the youth, who turned his gaze toward the
+more distant ridge on his left for the answer, but if it was made, the
+state of the atmosphere prevented his seeing it. Once he fancied he
+caught the glimpse of something resembling a fire-fly, but it was only
+for an instant, and was not observed again.</p>
+
+<p>It was easy to read the meaning of that which first showed itself. A
+party of Indians that had evidently been watching his coming, while yet
+a long way off, now telegraphed his arrival to their confederates on the
+more distant elevation, together with the fact that the white man had
+ceased his approach and might not come any nearer.</p>
+
+<p>It was reasonable to believe that these same red men would not remain
+idle while the object of their wrath turned quietly about and retraced
+his steps.</p>
+
+<p>Only a few minutes were used in considering the question, but the time
+had not yet expired, when, to Warren's astonishment, he heard the sound
+of firing ahead. Probably eight or ten shots were discharged at quick
+but irregular intervals, and then all once more became still.</p>
+
+<p>A pang of apprehension passed through him at the fear that his friends,
+after all, might have attempted to reach the fort by the trail, and had
+become involved in a fight with the Sioux. Be that as it may, the fact
+was impressed on him that he was doing an imprudent thing by remaining
+in the path along which the warriors were liable to burst at any moment.
+He turned Jack to the left and rode fully a hundred yards before again
+drawing rein. It was not necessary to go this far to place himself
+beyond sight of the path, but he wished to take no unnecessary chances.</p>
+
+<p>By this time the snowflakes were falling fast, and it was impossible to
+see objects more than twenty feet distant. Warren checked his pony,
+holding him with his nose toward the trail, and listened.</p>
+
+<p>Again the intelligent animal elevated his head, pricked his ears, and
+emitted an almost noiseless neigh, as was his habit when he discovered
+the approach of strangers. His rider could discern nothing through the
+gloom, and resorted to the resource tried before, which is a common one
+among hunters and warriors. Descending from the saddle, he brushed aside
+the snow from a small spot on the ground and pressed his ear against the
+earth.</p>
+
+<p>This time he <i>did</i> hear something. A horse was approaching over the
+trail on a swift gallop, and it took but a brief while for the youth to
+learn that he was coming from the direction of the ridge. Furthermore,
+there was but the single horseman; or, if there were others, they were
+so far off that no thought need be given to them.</p>
+
+<p>Remounting his pony, Warren held him facing the path, and prepared for
+any emergency likely to arise. He was well aware that if the stranger
+kept to the trail he would be invisible in the gloom, but he was now so
+near that from his seat young Starr plainly caught the sound of his
+horse's hoofs, growing more distinct every moment.</p>
+
+<p>Whoever it was that was advancing, it was evident he was doing so at
+what might be called a leisurely pace, though it was quite rapid. The
+horse was on an easy canter, such as his species can maintain for hours
+without fatigue.</p>
+
+<p>The youth was sitting in this posture, with never a thought of what was
+coming, when to his amazement he caught the outlines of the man and his
+steed passing at right angles to the course he had been following
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>"He is off the trail!" was the alarming fact which caused Warren to make
+ready to fire, for the truth was apparent that if he saw the stranger,
+the latter had the same opportunity of seeing him.</p>
+
+<p>To his surprise Jack uttered a neigh at the critical moment when the
+other was directly opposite. A collision now seemed certain, but the
+other kept straight on, and quickly passed from sight.</p>
+
+<p>Not until he had been several minutes beyond hearing did the startling
+thought come to Warren Starr:</p>
+
+<p>"That was a white man, and not an Indian."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3>COMPANIONS IN PERIL.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Warren Starr was impatient with himself that he had not thought of the
+stranger being a white man until it was too late to make use of the
+important fact. The sounds of firing ahead ought to have raised the
+suspicion in his mind, and the act of his pony should have confirmed it,
+for he never would have betrayed himself to one of his own species had
+he not known that he belonged to a friend.</p>
+
+<p>But it was a waste of time to bewail what could not be helped, and
+nothing was to be gained by staying where he was. There was no longer
+any call to push onward toward the ranch, for that was not his
+destination. He was seeking his folks.</p>
+
+<p>Once more the nose of Jack was turned about, and this time he was headed
+toward the northwest, his course being such that it would take him
+considerably to the west of the second rocky ridge to which allusion has
+been made. In short, Warren had now set out to do that which he would
+not have attempted but for the receipt of the message from his father.
+He was about to flank both elevations by swerving far from the direct
+course to his home.</p>
+
+<p>The small tributary of the Big Cheyenne, which it was necessary to ford
+in order to reach the ranch, made a sweeping curve southward, so that
+the marked change in the course he was following would take him to it,
+though at a point far removed from the regular ford.</p>
+
+<p>The youth was not riding blindly forward. It has been stated that he was
+familiar with the country for many miles around his home, and he was
+making for a definite point. It was on the bank of the small stream, and
+was not only deeply wooded, but abounded with rocks, bowlders,
+depressions, ravines, and wild, dangerous places, where it was certain
+death for a person to try to make his way in the darkness, unless he
+knew every foot of the locality.</p>
+
+<p>This was the locality for which young Starr was aiming. Here he was
+confident of finding security against the Sioux, though they might be
+near at hand. He knew just where to go, for he had hunted through it
+many times with his friend Tim Brophy, for whose company he longed more
+than ever before.</p>
+
+<p>Jack wanted food, but it could not be had. He did not need it, however,
+to the extent of suffering. At the noon halt, when his master sat on the
+ground by a spring of cold water to eat his lunch, the pony had cropped
+the succulent grass that grew around, and he could stand it quite well
+until the morrow. The animal needed rest and shelter more than anything
+else, and it was that which his young master meant he should have.</p>
+
+<p>As if he understood it all, the horse of his own accord struck into a
+brisk gallop, which rendered unnecessary any other protection from the
+cold. The snow was still falling, but the temperature was not low, and
+there was not enough on the ground to interfere with the travelling of
+the animal, who maintained his pace until the abrupt appearance of the
+rocky section, with its trees and bowlders, compelled him to drop to a
+slow walk, with his nose thrust forward, as if to scent every step of
+the way, like an elephant crossing a doubtful bridge.</p>
+
+<p>"Here we are, my boy!" called out Warren, "and you couldn't have come
+more truly if the sun had been shining."</p>
+
+<p>It certainly was a marvellous piece of woodcraft, if such it may be
+called, on the part of the pony, that he should have struck the spot so
+accurately, and yet it is scarcely less marvellous that, had he needed
+direction, his master was competent to give it, despite the darkness and
+the snow.</p>
+
+<p>Warren left the saddle for the last time. With no stars or moon in the
+sky, and with the snow falling faster than ever, it would seem that
+one's eyes were of little use, but they served their purpose well in the
+present instance. Paying no heed to the animal, he bent over, groping
+his way among the rocks, which began abruptly on the edge of the
+prairie, and had not spent five minutes thus when he came upon that for
+which he was looking&mdash;an opening between a mass of bowlders, along which
+a person or animal could make his way with little difficulty.</p>
+
+<p>"Here we are, Jack, my boy! Come on; we'll soon reach our house."</p>
+
+<p>With more thrusting forward of the head, and sniffing of the air, the
+pony obeyed, though it is hardly to be supposed that he understood all
+that was said to him.</p>
+
+<p>On the previous winter, when Warren Starr and Tim Brophy were hunting in
+this section, they found game so abundant that they decided to spend two
+or three days in the neighborhood. Accordingly they put up a shelter
+which afforded good protection at night, and would do the same against
+any storm not too violent. A rock a dozen feet in length formed a
+half-circle, the upper edge projecting over to the extent of a yard or
+more. All that was required was to lean a number of branches against
+this, the upper parts supported by the ledge, while the lower rested on
+the ground, some eight or ten feet away from the base.</p>
+
+<p>These branches being numerous and thickly placed, constituted what might
+be considered a tepee, with only the broad opening in front.</p>
+
+<p>It was in this rude shelter that Warren Starr and Tim Brophy had spent a
+couple of nights in comparative comfort. The second one was bitterly
+cold, and they kindled a fire near the entrance. The smoke caused some
+trouble, but wrapped in their thick blankets, and stretched out back to
+back, they slept as soundly as if in their beds at home.</p>
+
+<p>This was the structure which the youth had in mind when he turned his
+back on the regular trail and made for the wild solitude through which
+he now began threading his way, and it was a striking tribute to his
+woodcraft and knowledge that within fifteen minutes he reached the very
+spot, with his pony at his heels.</p>
+
+<p>"This is the place," he remarked to his animal, "but there don't seem to
+be any lamps lighted, and it's best to look around a little before
+retiring for the night."</p>
+
+<p>Drawing a rubber match-safe from his pocket, he ignited one of the tiny
+bits of wood, shading the twist of flame from the snowflakes, though
+there was no wind stirring.</p>
+
+<p>It was months since he had visited the place, and the elements were
+likely to have played havoc with the structure during that period, for
+in that part of our Union the blizzard and tempest raise the mischief at
+certain seasons.</p>
+
+<p>He was gratified, however, to note the slight change effected. One or
+two of the long branches had fallen to the ground and several others
+were askew. He was obliged to fling aside the match while he devoted
+some minutes to straightening them. This was effected so well that when
+he stepped inside and struck another match he saw not a flake of snow
+filtering through the crevices, though there was likely to be
+considerable before morning.</p>
+
+<p>"Come in!" was the astonishing command the youth gave to his pony, who
+stood looking at him, as if wondering what the next move was to be. The
+situation was amusing, and not without its ludicrous side, with Warren
+holding a match in one hand, his rifle in the other, and his heavy
+blanket wrapped about his shoulders, beckoning and addressing the pony,
+which hesitated for a minute at this unexpected invitation to share the
+couch of his master.</p>
+
+<p>But he was an obedient animal, and with some more sniffing and poking
+forward of his nose, he stepped slowly forward until he was entirely
+within the rude structure.</p>
+
+<p>"Now lie down," added Warren, lighting another match, and Jack obeyed
+with more promptness than before. Then the youth flung the broad, heavy
+blanket over the pony so as to envelop as much of him as possible, lay
+down close to the front of his body, adjusting the hoofs as best he
+could, drew the rest of the covering over himself, and was excusable for
+chuckling:</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Jack, old fellow, what's to prevent us from sleeping as snug as a
+bug in a rug! Hey, my boy?"</p>
+
+<p>Everything promised well, but before either could fall asleep, they were
+startled beyond measure by hearing someone moving outside. Whispering
+to the horse to keep still, Warren slipped out from under the blanket
+and moved softly to the opening, revolver in hand. As he did so, he ran
+squarely against another person who was in the act of entering the place
+of shelter.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3>TIM BROPHY'S DISCOVERY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The letter which was delivered to Warren Starr by his mortally wounded
+hound not only gave that young man definite news of the alarming events
+in the neighborhood of his home, but has conveyed to the reader the
+cause of the abrupt change in his plans and of the stirring incidents
+which led to the hasty flight of the Starr family from their ranch on
+the north of the Big Cheyenne River.</p>
+
+<p>As stated in the note, it was Tim Brophy, the young Irishman, who made
+the discovery in time to prevent the family being overwhelmed and
+massacred. While Jared Plummer, the lank New Englander, rode to the
+westward to look after some strays, Tim galloped north to attend to the
+main herd, which was supposed to be cropping the abundant grass in the
+neighborhood of several small streams and tributaries of the main
+river.</p>
+
+<p>Tim had been in the employ of Mr. Starr for three years, and had spent
+most of his life in the West, so that he had fully learned the lesson
+which such an experience should teach everyone. He knew of the impending
+trouble among the Indian tribes, and was always on the alert. It was not
+long, therefore, before he came upon signs which told him something was
+amiss.</p>
+
+<p>In the corner of a natural clearing, near one of the small streams, he
+discovered a dozen of the cattle lying dead. It was not necessary for
+him to dismount and examine the ground to learn the cause of such
+slaughter. The footprints of ponies near by, the bullet wounds, and
+other indications answered the question that came to his lips at the
+first glimpse of the cruel butchery.</p>
+
+<p>"The spalpeens!" he exclaimed wrath-fully. "They niver had a better
+friend than Mr. Starr, and that's the shtyle in which they pays him for
+the same. Worrah, worrah, but it's too bad!"</p>
+
+<p>Riding cautiously to the top of the next elevation, the young rancher
+saw other sights which filled him with greater indignation and
+resentment. A half mile to the northward the entire herd of cattle,
+numbering several hundreds, were scurrying over the plain in a wild
+panic. The figures of several Sioux bucks galloping at their heels,
+swinging their arms and shouting, so as to keep up and add to the
+affright, left no doubt that Mr. Starr's fine drove of cattle was gone
+beyond recovery. The result of months of toil, expense, and trouble were
+vanishing as they sometimes do before the resistless sweep of the
+cyclone.</p>
+
+<p>The blue eyes of the Celt flashed, as he sat in the saddle and
+contemplated the exasperating raid. Nothing would have pleased him
+better than to dash with several companions after the marauders and
+force them to a reckoning for the outrage. But eager as he was for such
+an affray, he was too wise to try it alone. There were five or six of
+the horsemen, and he was no match for them.</p>
+
+<p>Besides this, a more alarming discovery broke upon him within a minute
+after observing the stampede. From the clump of wood on his right, along
+the edge of the stream, only a few hundred yards away, he detected the
+faint smoke of a camp-fire. The Sioux were there.</p>
+
+<p>The sight so startled Tim that he wheeled his pony short around and
+withdrew behind the elevation he had just ascended, fearing he had
+already been observed by the red men.</p>
+
+<p>Such undoubtedly would have been the fact had any of the turbulent Sioux
+been on guard, but the occasion was one of those rare ones in which the
+warriors acted upon the theory that no such precaution was needed, since
+no possible danger could threaten them.</p>
+
+<p>Suspecting the truth, Tim dropped hastily from his pony and stole along
+the edge of the stream, until he reached a point which gave him a sight
+of the miscreants, and at the same time afforded him tolerably fair
+protection.</p>
+
+<p>The scene was calculated to inspire anything but pleasant feelings in a
+spectator. Fully a score of young warriors were squatted in a circle,
+listening to the harangue of one of their number, who had wrought
+himself into a furious passion. He was swinging his arms, shouting and
+leaping about like a lunatic, and rising to a pitch which not only
+threatened to throw him into a paroxysm, but was imparting itself to his
+listeners. Some of them were smoking, but showing at the same time an
+excitement which is generally believed to be foreign to the American
+race. They were all bucks, and eager to be led upon the warpath. There
+was not an old or middle-aged man among them.</p>
+
+<p>The eavesdropper was not able to understand their words, but the
+gestures left no doubt of their fearful meaning. The speaker pointed in
+the direction of the home of the Starrs so often, and indulged in so
+much action to which the others signified full assent, that it was
+beyond dispute that they meant to attack the house and slay the inmates.
+Knowing all about these, and the resistance they were likely to meet,
+they would wait until night before bursting upon them.</p>
+
+<p>Tim Brophy was sagacious enough to grasp almost on the instant the full
+nature of the awful peril. He saw that accident, or rather Providence,
+had given to him the secret which revealed that only by prompt action
+could the lives of his friends be saved. There was no saying how long
+the council, if such it may be called, would last, and he did not care
+to know.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could show the intense absorption of the fierce Sioux in the
+outrage they had determined to commit more than the fact that a white
+man rose up in full view only a few hundred yards away, without his
+presence being detected. Such being the case, it was easy for Tim to
+withdraw from the immediate vicinity of the gathering, steal round to
+where his pony was cropping the grass, and mount again.</p>
+
+<p>He rode carefully forward, keeping the elevation between him and the
+camp of the hostiles, until convinced it was safe, when he struck his
+horse into a run and sped away as if for life.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes sufficed to take him to the house, where the unsuspicious
+folk looked up in wonder at his haste and agitation. Mr. Starr was
+sitting near the window reading a newspaper, his little girl Dot was
+playing with her doll on the floor, and the wife was busy with her
+household duties.</p>
+
+<p>It took but a few minutes for Tim to tell the news. Jared Plummer had
+not yet come in, and there could be no guessing as to what additional
+facts he would give them.</p>
+
+<p>Like his employ&eacute;, the rancher was quick to grasp the situation. The only
+possible safety was in flight, and no time was to be lost.</p>
+
+<p>The building, with its broad, flat roof, its many windows and insecure
+portions, was in no condition for successful defence, where the small
+garrison could not guard one-half the weak points. The assailants could
+readily fire it, and it would burn like so much touchwood. Flight,
+therefore, was the one and only thing to be thought of.</p>
+
+<p>It was yet comparatively early in the afternoon, and those on the ranch
+had noted the signs of the approaching snowstorm. The husband directed
+his wife to make her preparations few and simple, and to waste no time.
+It was idle to bewail the necessity which compelled them to leave so
+many precious articles behind. Life was dearer than all, and the
+courageous helpmate proved herself equal to the occasion. She gathered
+the articles of clothing they were likely to need, filled several bags
+with the provisions in the house, and announced that she was ready.</p>
+
+<p>There was a horse each for the father, mother, and Tim Brophy, while a
+fourth, a small, tough pony, was laden with the bag of provisions, extra
+clothing, and a few articles deemed indispensable. These were brought
+round to the front, and in much less time than would be supposed the
+little cavalcade was ready to move.</p>
+
+<p>Despite the belief of Brophy that no attack would be made until after
+darkness had closed,&mdash;a belief shared by Mr. Starr,&mdash;the rancher was
+fearful that his home would be placed under surveillance while daylight
+lasted, and that the intended flight would be discovered before it
+began. In such an event, the family could only fight it out to the
+desperate end, and that they would do so admits of no doubt.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<h3>LEAVING THE RANCH.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Now that everything was ready, Mr. Starr felt anxious about the absent
+Jared Plummer. He ought to have learned of the danger before this, and
+should have been almost, if not quite, as prompt as Tim Brophy in
+hastening to the house. His continued absence gave ground for fear that
+harm had befallen him, but his friends were powerless to give him help.</p>
+
+<p>"It won't do to wait," remarked the rancher gravely, "and he will be as
+able to do without as with us."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not lave a missage for him?" asked Tim.</p>
+
+<p>"The idea is a good one," replied Mr. Starr, who, sitting down,
+hurriedly penned the following upon a slip of paper, and pinned it on
+the front door of the dwelling, where it was sure to catch the eye of
+the absent one in the event of his return:</p>
+
+<div class="blockquot"><p><span class="smcap">To Jared Plummer:</span></p>
+
+<p>The presence of the Sioux, and the certainty that they will attack
+the ranch before long, leave no choice for us but to flee at once.
+I have waited as long as I dare. We shall take a south-west course
+and will aim to reach Fort Meade. Follow as soon as you can, and we
+will look out for each other; but give your thoughts and energies
+to taking care of yourself. More than likely we shall not see each
+other until we meet at the post, if it be God's will that we shall
+safely arrive there.</p>
+
+<p><span class="smcap">George Starr.</span></p></div>
+
+
+<p>Little Dot watched her father with great interest while he was fastening
+this piece of paper to the door of their home.</p>
+
+<p>"What's that for, papa?" she asked.</p>
+
+<p>"It is something for Mr. Plummer to read when he comes back."</p>
+
+<p>"Don't you want anyone else to read it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Of course not," replied the parent with a smile, lovingly patting the
+chubby cheek.</p>
+
+<p>"But if the bad Indians you and mamma have been talking about come here,
+they will read it too."</p>
+
+<p>The father started. He had not thought of that. The next moment,
+however, he laughed.</p>
+
+<p>"The Indians don't know how to read writing or print, so it won't do
+them any good."</p>
+
+<p>"But Starcus can read as well as anybody."</p>
+
+<p>"He has been to school and learned, and then he is a good Indian, too,
+and I wouldn't care if he did read it."</p>
+
+<p>"But maybe he will become bad like the other Indians," persisted the
+child.</p>
+
+<p>The husband looked significantly at his wife, who was also watching his
+actions and listening to the conversation. She replied with a motion of
+the head, which said there might be something in the words of the little
+one.</p>
+
+<p>Starcus was a young Indian that had been attending the Carlisle school
+for a couple of years, and had acquired a fair English education, being
+able to read, write, and talk intelligently. He had called at the house
+several times, and interested the family by his pleasing ways and kind
+words.</p>
+
+<p>He remarked on his last visit, some weeks before, that he was likely to
+remain some time with his people, and possibly would not return again
+to the East. Many things were more unlikely than that he would be
+carried away by the craze that was affecting his tribe, and become one
+of the most ferocious foes of the Caucasian race.</p>
+
+<p>"Tim," said Mr. Starr, turning to the Irishman, "did you notice whether
+he was among the group you saw?"</p>
+
+<p>"I didn't observe him, but they were fixed out in war-paint and toggery
+so that I wouldn't have knowed the gintleman onless I was inthrodooced
+to the same. Thin, too, he might have been one of the spalpeens who were
+stampeding the cattle."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, there's no use in thinking of that; we must take the chances; the
+Sioux will find out what course we follow without asking anyone to
+translate this message for them."</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Starr caught the arm of her husband, and as he turned he noticed
+that her face was pale with emotion.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it, wife?" he asked in alarm.</p>
+
+<p>"Warren," she replied in a whisper.</p>
+
+<p>"What about him?"</p>
+
+<p>"This is the day he said he would leave the fort for home; he must be on
+the way now; unless he is warned he will ride to his death without
+suspecting it."</p>
+
+<p>The father forgot their own danger for the moment in his alarm for his
+son. It took but a few minutes to act upon the plan of which the reader
+has learned long since. Another letter was pencilled and secured to the
+collar of Bruno, whose instructions were so minute that they would have
+been ludicrous, but for their warrant in the wonderful intelligence of
+the animal. The hound sped away like an arrow from the bow, and the
+faithfulness with which he did his work need not be retold.</p>
+
+<p>There was no call for further delay. Mr. Starr mounted his fine animal,
+armed with Winchester and revolver, after he had assisted his wife upon
+another horse and placed Dot in front of her. The mother was a superior
+horsewoman, and this arrangement was intended to leave the husband free
+to act without hinderance, in the event of an emergency. Tim Brophy was
+equally at liberty, and with the pack animal well laden the party left
+the home, each oppressed by a great fear that they would not only never
+look upon it again, but would probably be struck down before reaching
+the nearest point of safety, many miles away, at the base of the Black
+Hills.</p>
+
+<p>More than one eye anxiously turned toward the elevation, beyond which
+Tim Brophy had seen the bucks listening to the impassioned harangue of
+their leader, and the relief was not great when they rode over another
+swell in the plain, which shut them out from the sight of any of the
+serpent-eyed Sioux concealed there; for there could be no certainty that
+the fugitives had not been observed by them. It was not the custom of
+their people to attack openly; more likely they would set some ambush
+into which the whites might ride with no thought of danger.</p>
+
+<p>But in one sense the Rubicon was crossed. They had turned their backs on
+the ranch, and it was to be dismissed from their thoughts until they
+should reach some place of safety.</p>
+
+<p>There was little said by any member of the party, for the occasion was
+not one to induce conversation. Even little Dot was oppressed by the
+general gloom, and nestled close to her mother, whose arm lovingly
+encircled and held her close to her breast, which would gladly receive
+any blow intended for that precious one.</p>
+
+<p>Tim Brophy remained a brief distance at the rear, with the pack animal,
+on the alert for the first sign of danger, while Mr. Starr gave his
+attention to the front, selecting the course, and doing all in his power
+to avoid leading his companions into danger.</p>
+
+<p>When, however, a half mile had been passed, during which several ridges
+were crossed, a feeling of hope arose that after all they might elude
+their vengeful enemies. With the coming of night, it would be impossible
+for the Sioux to trail them. They must wait until the following morning,
+and before that time the fugitives ought to be so near Fort Meade that
+the pursuit would be in vain.</p>
+
+<p>It was a striking proof of parental affection that now, when the cloud
+was partly lifted from the father and mother, their anxiety should be
+transferred to the absent son on his way to join them. He was in the
+minds of both, and despite his exceptional skill in woodcraft, the
+conviction grew upon the parents that he was in greater peril than they.
+Finally, the mother uttered the thoughts in her mind.</p>
+
+<p>"I agree with you, Molly," the husband replied. "Bruno will do his best,
+but I believe the chances are a hundred to one that he will fail, and
+Warren will ride straight to his death."</p>
+
+<p>"Can't we do something, George?"</p>
+
+<p>The husband turned his head, and beckoned to his employ&eacute; to ride up
+between them.</p>
+
+<p>"Tim, you know the regular trail to the fort as well as the way to your
+own bedroom. I want you to set out to meet Warren, and prevent his
+running into the hands of the Sioux."</p>
+
+<p>"Whin would ye like me to start?"</p>
+
+<p>"Now."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm riddy and waiting to ride to me death for the boy, if nade be."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3>"TIMOTHY BROPHY, ESQ., AT YOUR SERVICE."</h3>
+
+
+<p>At first thought, the abrupt departure of Tim Brophy may seem an
+imprudent thing, since it left only one man to look after the safety of
+Mrs. Starr and their little one; but it will be remembered that the hope
+of safety lay not in fighting, but in flight; and the presence or
+absence of the young Irishman could not affect that one way or the
+other.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly, with a pause only long enough to draw a substantial lunch
+from the provision bag and to bid his friends good-by, Tim wheeled his
+horse and was off like a shot. He took good care to avoid the
+neighborhood of the bucks, and soon left the ranch far behind, speeding
+along the trail over which Warren Starr was at that moment galloping
+toward him.</p>
+
+<p>The youth drove his task through with all the impetuosity of his nature.
+He was devotedly attached to the son of his employer, and was ready at
+any time, as he had always been, to risk his life for him. Believing as
+he did that he was in more imminent peril than anyone else, he bent
+every energy toward reaching and turning him aside before it was too
+late.</p>
+
+<p>In this essay, Tim committed a mistake which Warren Starr narrowly
+avoided. He acted on the theory that the only real danger was in the
+immediate neighborhood of the ranch, and that none existed near the
+ridges between which the trail led. The consequence was that, when he
+was not dreaming of any such thing, he suddenly became the target for a
+fusillade from Sioux rifles that were waiting to receive young Starr,
+and therefore were not fully prepared for him. By desperate work and
+good fortune he and his pony ran the gauntlet unscathed, and continued
+their flight southward. The whinny of his friend's pony, he supposed,
+came from one of the horses of his enemies, and therefore he galloped on
+without paying any heed to it.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, as will be remembered, young Starr had pushed through the
+falling snow and gathering darkness until he and his horse reached the
+primitive shelter among the rocks, bowlders, and trees which he had used
+when on previous hunting expeditions. After he and Jack had disposed
+themselves for the night they were disturbed by the approach of someone.
+Rising to his feet, Warren hurried stealthily to the door, where he ran
+directly against the intruder, whom he was unable to recognize in the
+gloom.</p>
+
+<p>"Who are you?" he asked, holding his revolver ready for instant use, but
+unwilling to fire until sure he was facing an enemy.</p>
+
+<p>"Timothy Brophy, Esq., at your service," replied his friend, identifying
+the other by his voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Tim, I can't tell you how glad I am to see you," exclaimed the
+delighted Warren: "I have thought a score of times, when on the way, how
+pleasant it would be to meet you. What brought you here?"</p>
+
+<p>"My horse, and I presume that yours did the same for yersilf."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Outside, near by, wid the bist shelter I could give him: I didn't saa
+your own."</p>
+
+<p>"He's inside, sharing my couch with me, or, rather, was doing so when
+you disturbed us."</p>
+
+<p>Tim broke into laughter.</p>
+
+<p>"That's a good idaa; I niver heerd of anything like it before. Is there
+room for Billy, too?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm afraid we would be crowded; but come inside till I strike a match
+and show you how things are fixed."</p>
+
+<p>The two entered, and Warren ignited another lucifer. Jack was evidently
+puzzled, raising his head and looking at them in a way which suggested
+that he would like to come to his feet.</p>
+
+<p>"Lie down, old fellow!" commanded his master; "there's nothing to be
+disturbed about; you couldn't have better quarters, and you will be wise
+to stay where you are; you're better off than Billy."</p>
+
+<p>Now that Tim had arrived with his blanket, it was decided that the pony
+should be left where he was, while the youths lay down on the other
+covering, which was wrapped about them.</p>
+
+<p>Then they curled up and made themselves as comfortable as on their
+previous stay in the rude shelter.</p>
+
+<p>Lying thus, they naturally talked over what had taken place since their
+last meeting. Warren's voice trembled when he told the story of Bruno,
+who gave his life for him and his friends, and Tim related what had
+befallen the others during the day.</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr was filled with alarm for his parents and little sister, but
+Tim was hopeful that everything would come out right, and that, by the
+time the sun rose, they would be so far advanced on their way to Fort
+Meade that the danger would be virtually over.</p>
+
+<p>"Ye knows," he continued, "that yer fayther is acquainted wid the way as
+well as yerself; the horses are frish and strong, and he'll not spare
+thim; the road, too, is not as long as by the rig'lar route that we've
+follyed so often."</p>
+
+<p>"That is true, but it must be all of thirty miles, and is really much
+greater because of the ridges, hills, streams, and difficult places in
+the path, which will compel many detours."</p>
+
+<p>"And the same will have to be observed by the spalpeens that may be
+thrying to overtake thim."</p>
+
+<p>"But they understand the business better."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm not so sartin of that," sturdily replied Tim; "yer fayther is no
+green hand."</p>
+
+<p>"That isn't what I mean; I'm thinking of mother and Dot; he will have to
+accommodate himself to them, and in case the Indians do come up with
+them&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Arrah, now, what are ye thinking of?" demanded Tim impatiently; "if ye
+want to go to specylatin' and 'ifing,' ye may refar to oursilves and say
+that if the spalpeens come down here wid Sitting Bull laading the same,
+and they sit fire to this ilegant risidence, what will become of us?"</p>
+
+<p>"That is very well, Tim, and you mean right, but I shall not rest a
+minute until I know they have reached the fort. It's strange, too, about
+Plummer."</p>
+
+<p>"It's my opinion," remarked the Irishman, lowering his voice, as though
+afraid of being overheard, "that he's in throuble."</p>
+
+<p>"Why do you think so?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because he did not show up before we lift; he hadn't any farther to go
+than mesilf, and it was nearly an hour after I got back before we come
+away, but there was no sign of him."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you hear no firing?"</p>
+
+<p>"Not that I remimber; which reminds me that it was also quaar that the
+Sioux could have shot down the cattle as they did, so near the house,
+widout any of us noting the noise of their guns."</p>
+
+<p>"It was singular, but perhaps you were all inside at the time, busy at
+something. At any rate, instead of our hurrying back to the fort, we
+will do our best to find father and mother, and stick by them to the
+end."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm wid ye there," was the hearty response of Tim; "I'd like to give
+Plummer a helping hand, but see no way to do the same, and it is likely
+that he can get along better widout us than wid us."</p>
+
+<p>The two talked a long time, for their hearts were full. It was not until
+midnight that a feeling of drowsiness began creeping over them. Tim's
+remarks began to grow slower and more disconnected, until finally he
+failed to answer at all. Finding that he was asleep, Warren composed
+himself as comfortably as he could, and soon joined him in the land of
+dreams.</p>
+
+<p>The snow continued sifting softly downward, and rattled against the
+branches and leaves which composed a portion of their house. The
+temperature sank as the night progressed, and the situation of the
+couple, no less than that of their friends, became anything but hopeful.</p>
+
+<p>They were still a long way from the post, where they could feel secure,
+and the Indians were certain to press them hard. They were so much more
+numerous than the little band of fugitives that the advantage lay wholly
+with them.</p>
+
+<p>But the night passed without disturbance. Then the pony and the two
+youths awoke simultaneously, for they were aroused by one of the most
+startling causes that can be conceived: It was the screaming whinny of
+Tim Brophy's horse&mdash;a cry rarely heard from the animal, and only when in
+the very extremity of mortal terror.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3>STIRRING TIMES.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Warren Starr and Tim Brophy sprang up at the same instant. The gray
+light of the early wintry morning was stealing through the rocky
+solitude, the snow had ceased falling, and the weather was colder than
+on the preceding evening. The pony also began struggling to his feet,
+but the youths in their excitement paid no heed to him.</p>
+
+<p>"It's Billy," whispered Tim.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; let's see what is the matter."</p>
+
+<p>The young Irishman had formed the decision a moment before, for he was
+as ready to defend his horse as a friend. He bounded out from the rude
+shelter, with his companion at his heels.</p>
+
+<p>It was but a short distance to the spot where he had left the animal to
+spend the night. The boys dropped their blankets, but each grasped his
+Winchester, confident that there was call for its use.</p>
+
+<p>It was on a small natural clearing, where, after grazing a few minutes
+in the dark, the pony had lain down to sleep, his instinct leading him
+to select the side of a towering rock, where he was well protected from
+the falling snow. This bare place was less than a quarter of an acre in
+extent, and narrowed to what might be called a point, where the horse
+had found refuge from the storm. Surrounded by bowlders, varying in
+height from eight or more feet to twice that extent, his only means of
+entering or leaving was through the opening at the extreme end, which
+was not less than a rod in width.</p>
+
+<p>The pony had probably risen to his feet with the first coming of
+daylight, when he was confronted by the most terrifying sight
+conceivable; a colossal grizzly bear stood in the middle of the "door,"
+calmly surveying him, and evidently of the belief that he had come upon
+the most palatable kind of breakfast, which was already secured to him
+beyond possibility of loss.</p>
+
+<p>When it is borne in mind that the pony was caught in a trap as secure as
+an iron cage, it will be understood why the intelligent animal, in the
+agony of helplessness, emitted that astounding cry which rang like the
+wail of doom through the snowy solitude. Thousands of his species live
+for years and die without giving expression to that horrible outcry, for
+it requires the agony of fear to call it forth.</p>
+
+<p>The horse has five times the intelligence of the bear, but the latter
+was not stupid enough to fail to see his advantage, or to allow it to
+slip from him. The enormous trail which he had made in the snow was
+noticed by Tim Brophy before seeing the brute, and he identified it at a
+glance, his only fear being that he might arrive too late to save his
+pony.</p>
+
+<p>The latter cowered against the rock, his fright so pitiable that, in the
+stirring moments, both youths were touched with sympathy for him.</p>
+
+<p>"Begorra, but isn't he a bouncer?" whispered Tim, coming to a halt. "I
+niver looked upon as big a one."</p>
+
+<p>"Has he hurt Billy?" asked Warren, who, as will be remembered, was a
+few paces behind him while making the brief run.</p>
+
+<p>"He has scared him out of ten years' growth, and it's mesilf that's
+going to pay the same compliment to the spalpeen."</p>
+
+<p>"Be careful, Tim! You know how hard it is to kill one of those
+creatures, and when they are roused&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>Further utterance was cut short by the report of Tim's gun. The young
+Irishman's failing was his impetuosity. When he saw his services needed,
+he was so eager to give them that he frequently threw caution to the
+winds, and plunged into the fray like a diver going off the rocks.</p>
+
+<p>Halting less than fifty feet away, he brought his rifle to a level and
+let fly. It was as impossible for him to miss as it was to inflict a
+mortal wound, and the ball meant for the skull of the brute found
+lodgment elsewhere.</p>
+
+<p>The bear appeared to be in the act of rising partly on his haunches,
+when the report, and probably a sharp twinge in his shoulder, apprised
+him of what was going on at the rear. The contemplated feast was not to
+be without its unpleasant interruption.</p>
+
+<p>He uttered a low growl and came straight for the two youths. Their
+rifles being of the magazine kind, they were prepared to open a
+bombardment, which they did without delay; but after a number of shots
+had been fired, and the mountainous animal continued to sweep down upon
+them, Warren called out:</p>
+
+<p>"Let's run, Tim! we need a cannon to stop him; we must find some place
+to shelter us."</p>
+
+<p>Not doubting that his comrade would instantly follow, Warren wheeled
+about and dashed off without paying heed to the direction; he had no
+time to make any calculations.</p>
+
+<p>Despite the fall of snow, there were only two or three inches on the
+ground, just enough to interfere with rapid travelling. Young Starr had
+not taken a dozen steps, when his foot turned on a smooth stone and he
+pitched headlong, with his gun flying from his grasp. He was not hurt,
+and he bounded up again as if made of rubber. He supposed the animal,
+which can lumber along at a speedy gait despite its awkwardness, was on
+his heels, but the furtive glance over his shoulder showed nothing of
+him, and the youth plunged forward and caught up his weapon as may be
+said on the fly.</p>
+
+<p>With its recovery came something like confidence again, and he turned
+about to learn how Tim Brophy was making out.</p>
+
+<p>It was just like the plucky fellow not to dash after his comrade, but to
+stand his ground, when the most experienced and the bravest hunter in
+the world would have lost no time in increasing the distance between him
+and the brute. The latter had scared Billy half to death, and his master
+meant to punish him therefor, so he held his ground, and managed to send
+in another shot while the grizzly was approaching, but which did no more
+to check his charge than a wad from a pop-gun.</p>
+
+<p>This reckless daring on the part of Tim would have brought disaster, but
+for an unexpected interference.</p>
+
+<p>Billy, the pony, no sooner saw the terrible brute turn his back upon him
+and lumber off, than he understood that the way of escape for him had
+opened. His panic departed like a flash, and he plunged through the
+opening with a snort of triumph; but his line of flight took him of
+necessity along that followed by the grizzly himself, who was advancing
+to the assault of the brave young Irishman.</p>
+
+<p>There may have been a feeling of wrathful resentment thrilling the
+nerves of the gallant pony, or it is not beyond belief that he
+understood the danger of his master. Be that as it may, he was no sooner
+beside the huge brute, who slightly turned his head on hearing the
+clatter of the hoofs, than he let drive with both hind feet, landing
+them with such terrific force against the iron ribs of the monster that
+he fell half upon his side, after being driven several feet beyond the
+path.</p>
+
+<p>"Good for you!" called the delighted Tim, "let him have another
+broadside, Billy, and we'll finish him&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>The assault of the pony diverted the attention of the grizzly for a
+moment from the youth to the assailant. He was thoroughly roused, and
+made for the horse, who showed more sense than his master by dashing
+off at full speed. This being beyond the attainment of the bear, it may
+be said that Billy's escape was absolute.</p>
+
+<p>The sudden check in Tim's words was caused by bruin, who had passed but
+a few paces beyond the youth, when, seeing how useless it was to pursue
+the pony, he wheeled and once more charged upon the master.</p>
+
+<p>The moment had arrived for the young rancher to call his legs into
+service. He was willing to run when the necessity was apparent, and none
+could excel him as a sprinter&mdash;that is, none of his kind.</p>
+
+<p>He assuredly would have been overtaken before he could climb any of the
+bowlders or rocks, or get out of the path, had not a bullet bored its
+way directly through the brain of the grizzly, and brought him to earth
+at the moment when the life of the fugitive hung on a thread.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>STARCUS.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Warren Starr was terrified for the moment by the peril of his companion.
+While running toward him he saw the grizzly rise partly on his haunches
+to seize Tim, who was within his grasp, but at that instant the brute
+toppled over, and with one or two struggles was dead.</p>
+
+<p>It was an exciting moment, but a singular discovery came to young
+Starr&mdash;the shot that slew the bear was fired neither by himself nor Tim!</p>
+
+<p>Without waiting to investigate, he dashed to where his panting friend
+was looking down at the fallen monster, as if uncertain what to do.</p>
+
+<p>"Gracious, Tim!" called Warren, as he came up, "that was the closest
+call you ever had."</p>
+
+<p>"It's qu'ar," replied the other, "that after we had pumped about a ton
+of lead into him without hurting the spalpeen, he should dhrop down from
+a single shot."</p>
+
+<p>"That's because it was aimed right."</p>
+
+<p>"But ye had no bitter chance than meself, nor what ye also was given a
+few minutes ago."</p>
+
+<p>"But it was not I, Tim, who fired the last shot."</p>
+
+<p>"What are ye talking about?" demanded the other. "I had no chance to
+shoot me rifle, and who ilse could have done the same?"</p>
+
+<p>"But I tell you I did not fire; I was about to do so, when someone else
+saved me the trouble; I am sure I couldn't have done any better than I
+did before."</p>
+
+<p>"Thin who was the mon?"</p>
+
+<p>The question naturally caused the couple to look around in quest of the
+unknown friend.</p>
+
+<p>They saw him at the first glance.</p>
+
+<p>"There he is! Look at him!" whispered Tim Brophy.</p>
+
+<p>Less than a hundred yards away stood an Indian warrior, calmly watching
+them. He had mounted a bowlder, so that his figure was brought out in
+clear relief. He was in Indian costume, most of it being hidden by a
+heavy blanket gathered around the shoulders, but the leggings and
+moccasons showed beneath, and the head was ornamented with stained
+eagle-feathers. The noticeable fact about him, however, was that his
+black hair was short, and the feathers were fixed in a sort of band,
+which clasped the forehead. The rather pleasing face was fantastically
+daubed with paint, and he held a fine rifle in his right hand, the other
+being concealed under his blanket.</p>
+
+<p>His action, or rather want of action, was striking. The bowlder which
+supported him was no more stationary than he. He gazed fixedly at the
+youths, but made no signs and uttered no word.</p>
+
+<p>"Begorra, but he's a shtrange gintleman," muttered Tim. "I wonder if
+he's posin' for his picter."</p>
+
+<p>"His firing of the gun proves that he is a friend," said Warren; "so we
+have nothing to fear from him."</p>
+
+<p>"If that's the case why doesn't he come forward and interdooce himself?
+whisht now!"</p>
+
+<p>What did the Irishman do but pucker up his mouth, whistle, and beckon to
+the Indian to approach. The latter, however, did not move a muscle.</p>
+
+<p>"Helloa!" called Warren; "we thank you for your kindness; won't you come
+forward and join us?"</p>
+
+<p>This appeal was as fruitless as the other.</p>
+
+<p>"If the copper gintleman won't come to us I'm going to him."</p>
+
+<p>It was just like Tim to start forward to carry out his intention, though
+a sense of delicacy restrained his companion from joining him. The
+Indian, however, nipped the little scheme in the bud.</p>
+
+<p>The Irishman had taken only two or three steps, when the Sioux, as he
+evidently was, turned about, leaped lightly down from the bowlder, and
+vanished.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I'll be hanged!" exclaimed the disappointed Tim, stopping short;
+"ye may be a good rifle shot, but be the same token ye are not fond of
+selict company," and with a laugh he walked back to his friend, whose
+face was so grave as to attract the notice of the Irishman.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the matter, Warren?"</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know who that Indian is?"</p>
+
+<p>"I niver have saan him before."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, you have, many a time; he's been at our house within the past few
+weeks."</p>
+
+<p>"Who is he?"</p>
+
+<p>"Starcus."</p>
+
+<p>"Git out!"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm not mistaken," insisted young Starr, compressing his lips and
+shaking his head. "He's painted and dressed like his people, but his
+short hair made me suspicious, and when he turned to jump down from the
+bowlder, he made a movement that fixed his identity beyond all doubt."</p>
+
+<p>"Wal, ye're so sartin about it that I can't help belaving ye; but if it
+was Starcus, why did he act that way? Why didn't he spake, and why
+didn't he coom forward and shake hands wid us?"</p>
+
+<p>"That's what troubles me; it wasn't like him. It makes me believe he has
+joined the hostiles."</p>
+
+<p>"But if that is the case why did he interfere whin the grizzly was about
+to chaw me up?"</p>
+
+<p>"His whole action was strange, but I explain it this way: He was
+prowling through this place, probably to help the bucks that are now on
+the warpath, when he heard our guns, made his way forward, and seeing
+the bear about to pounce upon you, he fired with the wish to save you.
+Your danger caused him to feel friendly toward us; for otherwise,
+instead of killing the bear he would have shot you and me."</p>
+
+<p>"Maybe he fired at me instead of the bear," suggested Tim, "and it was a
+chance shot that saved meself."</p>
+
+<p>"That cannot be, for he is too good a marksman to make such a miss. I
+have fired at a target with him and never saw a better shot than he.
+Then, too, when he found he missed, he could have turned his Winchester
+on us in turn and brought us both down."</p>
+
+<p>"And ye think after his doing us that kindness, he became an inimy
+agin?"</p>
+
+<p>"He has caught the craze that is setting his people wild, and though you
+didn't recognize him yesterday among that party of bucks near the house,
+I believe he was either there or was one of the horsemen that stampeded
+the cattle. He is with them body and soul. His last shot was given
+through impulse. Of course he knew us both, and acted from a generous
+motive. He may have stood there debating with himself whether to
+continue that friendship, when your advance scattered all his good
+resolutions to the winds. He has gone off to join the others, and when
+we meet again he will be our bitter foe, eager to serve us both as he
+served the grizzly. Let us not deceive ourselves about that."</p>
+
+<p>"There's one thing that looks well," remarked Tim a moment later; "if
+Starcus is wid the ither spalpeens, they haven't found your fayther and
+mither, for they're not in this part of the counthry."</p>
+
+<p>"That gives me relief," said Warren, with a glowing face; "the folks
+must be many miles away, and these people are off their track
+altogether. Father will waste no time, but push on. This snow is not
+deep enough to bother them, and they ought to be safely within Fort
+Meade by nightfall."</p>
+
+<p>"But what about us?" asked Tim significantly.</p>
+
+<p>"This isn't our right latitude. We must pull out as quickly as we can.
+Our ponies are fresh, and can travel as fast as any of the Indian ones.
+We haven't far to go to reach the open country, and then we'll head for
+the fort, unless we conclude to hunt for the folks before reaching
+there. In the meantime, Tim, I'm hungry enough to eat my shoes."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm wid ye there."</p>
+
+<p>"We shall have to wait here long enough to cook a steak from that bear.
+He seems to be in fine condition, and will give us a good meal."</p>
+
+<p>"There!" laughed the Irishman; "I knowed I had forgot something. Your
+mither give me a good, big lunch for us both whin I was laving
+yesterday, and it is in the residence beyant, onless yer pony ate up the
+same whin we warn't watching him."</p>
+
+<p>"Little fear of that," replied the pleased Warren. "It is hardly the
+sort of food that he fancies. Come on; let's have a good meal, and then
+we'll be off."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<h3>ON THE BANK OF A STREAM.</h3>
+
+
+<p>It need not be said that George Starr wasted no time. Halting only long
+enough to say a few words to Tim Brophy before he set out to warn the
+son of his danger, he resumed his journey toward Fort Meade, some thirty
+miles away, at the base of the Black Hills.</p>
+
+<p>He drew up beside the pony on which his wife sat with Dot in front. The
+pack-horse did not require leading, but as his load was lighter than
+either of the others, he kept his head at the haunch of the others, and
+plodded along as contentedly as they.</p>
+
+<p>Though the route to the post by means of the regular trail was longer,
+it was always used when safe, because it was easy travelling throughout
+its whole extent. The country before the husband and wife was varied.
+There were miles of open plain, over which they could ride at a gallop,
+while in other places, the rocky ridges, broken timber, and gullies
+compelled detours that were likely to render a two days' journey
+necessary.</p>
+
+<p>In addition to all this several streams must be crossed, and these were
+held in great dread, for if swimming became necessary, the plight of the
+little company, with the thermometer striking steadily below freezing
+point, would be pitiful indeed. The ranchman was resolved to save his
+wife and child from such an affliction, by constructing some kind of a
+raft, though the delay involved in such a work might solve the question
+of life and death.</p>
+
+<p>"I have never been over this route&mdash;that is, to any extent," he
+remarked, after they had ridden a short time on a brisk walk; "I have
+followed the cattle for some miles among the hills yonder, but, as you
+know, we always used the regular trail when going to the fort."</p>
+
+<p>"This is shorter," replied the wife, "because it is the most direct, and
+though there may be difficulties in the way, I am hopeful that we shall
+have no serious trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope so, too, but if I am not mistaken, we must cross more than one
+stream, and if they happen to be deep, it will be no trifling matter.
+How do you feel, Dot?" he asked, looking fondly at the little one, whose
+head was about the only portion visible beneath the folds of the blanket
+wrapped about her.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm all right," replied the sweet voice, while the bright eyes twinkled
+happily, as though no thought of danger or sorrow had ever dimmed them.</p>
+
+<p>"How long do you think you can ride on the back of Sally?"</p>
+
+<p>"Just as long as she can carry me."</p>
+
+<p>"That's good," laughed the parent, who could not help reaching across
+from the saddle and pinching the chubby cheek; "I want to give you a
+good long ride, and we may keep it up after dark."</p>
+
+<p>"That don't make any difference to me, for I can sleep here as well as
+in my bed at home. Mamma will take care of me, won't you?" she asked,
+twisting her head about and looking up in the face of her parent.</p>
+
+<p>The latter leaned down and kissed her, murmuring:</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, with my life, precious one; but we are in the keeping of God, and
+he is always merciful and kind."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that," said the child thoughtfully, "for hasn't He given me the
+best parents in the world? Oh, look! papa and mamma!" she added, forcing
+her head farther out of its environments, and pointing to the top of the
+elevation they were approaching.</p>
+
+<p>The sight was a pretty one indeed. A noble buck had arrived first, from
+the other side of the ridge, and paused on the highest point. With his
+head erect, he looked down in wonderment at the party approaching him.
+He made a fine picture, with his antlers high in air and his whole form
+thrown in relief against the leaden sky beyond.</p>
+
+<p>"What a fine mark," said the rancher admiringly; "I never saw a larger
+buck."</p>
+
+<p>"You don't intend to shoot him?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; we have all the food we are likely to want, and the sound of the
+gun might be dangerous to us, when there's no saying that other of the
+Sioux are not in the neighborhood."</p>
+
+<p>"Isn't that too bad!"</p>
+
+<p>The regretful exclamation of Dot was caused by the disappearance of the
+animal. The steady advance of the party was more than the timid creature
+could face. He whirled about and was off like a flash, to the keen
+regret of Dot, who was hoping for a closer acquaintance. The parents
+smiled at the innocence of the little one, and assured her it would have
+to be caught and tamed before allowing any companionship from anyone.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later the friends rode to the top of the elevation,
+halting at the very spot where the buck had stood but a few minutes
+before.</p>
+
+<p>"Just what I feared!" exclaimed the rancher regretfully.</p>
+
+<p>As he spoke he pointed to the westward, where the gleam of water was
+seen, revealing a winding stream, which it was necessary to cross before
+continuing their journey.</p>
+
+<p>"It is not broad and may not be deep," remarked the wife.</p>
+
+<p>"That can be ascertained only by investigation."</p>
+
+<p>He halted long enough to take a sweeping survey of the country behind
+them. There might have been Indians watching, but, if so, he detected no
+signs of them. The little party were conspicuous objects, but it was an
+easy matter for anyone to keep out of sight of the keenest vision on the
+crest of the elevation.</p>
+
+<p>The stream that had caught his eye was about half a mile away, the
+intervening ground being a comparatively level and grassy plain, but
+beyond the water stretched a hilly and wooded section, which was likely
+to offer serious obstacles to their progress.</p>
+
+<p>"We shall have snow before night," remarked Mr. Starr, glancing up and
+around at the sky, "and if it amounts to much it will make more
+trouble."</p>
+
+<p>"Let us ride faster, then, while we may," said his wife, urging her pony
+into a gallop, which was instantly imitated by the other, though the
+gait was so distasteful to the pack-horse that he held back until
+sharply spoken to by his master. Finally all three struck a pace which
+speedily carried them to the stream that crossed their path.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed odd that while there was plenty of timber on the other side,
+even to the water's edge, not a stick was on the bank where the
+fugitives halted. If it should be found necessary to make a raft with
+which to cross, Mr. Starr might well ask himself where the material was
+to be procured, since he saw none within reach.</p>
+
+<p>The stream was less than a hundred yards wide and the current not swift.
+The water was roiled to that extent that the bottom could be seen only a
+few paces from shore, but the slope was so gradual that the rancher was
+hopeful that the horse would be able to wade it.</p>
+
+<p>He scanned the water and finally turned to his wife with a smile:</p>
+
+<p>"Where do you think we had better try it, Molly?"</p>
+
+<p>"I know of no way of learning the depth of water except by test," she
+replied; "if it were clearer, we could make use of our eyes."</p>
+
+<p>"I wonder if it is clearer up yonder," he remarked, looking at a clump
+of bushes above them and some rods in extent. "It strikes me that it may
+be; anyway, I will find out."</p>
+
+<p>Instead of riding to the spot he dismounted, and, rifle in hand, walked
+the short distance necessary. As he did so, naturally he gave more heed
+to the stream than to his footsteps, for it was the former in which his
+interest lay. Dot laughed merrily when he stumbled, and he looked about
+and shook his head in mock anger at her.</p>
+
+<p>The bushes he approached were no more than three or four feet in height,
+not very dense, and continued with straggling interruptions as far as
+the eye could trace the winding stream.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Starr, who was attentively watching her husband, saw him pause on
+reaching the stunted growth. He looked at the water and then at the
+bushes. Then he suddenly leaped back with an exclamation and came
+hastening to his wife, his white face and staring eyes showing that he
+had made a horrifying discovery.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3>BENT ARM AND HIS BAND.</h3>
+
+
+<p>George Starr was so agitated that, forgetting the presence of his little
+child, he impulsively spoke the truth, while yet a few paces away:</p>
+
+<p>"Plummer is in those bushes."</p>
+
+<p>"Is he&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Starr hesitated with the dreadful word unuttered.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; he is dead; killed by the Indians!"</p>
+
+<p>The wife gave a gasp, and the husband added:</p>
+
+<p>"The poor fellow lies stretched out, stark and stiff, where he was shot
+down by the Sioux. He must have been killed shortly after leaving the
+house."</p>
+
+<p>"Where is his horse?"</p>
+
+<p>"I suppose it has been stolen. It is a sad thing, but poor Plummer is
+with his Maker; it won't do for us to wait any longer; I don't
+understand how we have escaped thus far, for we are in greater danger
+than I had supposed. We must cross the stream without delay, even if we
+have to swim our horses."</p>
+
+<p>"I am ready," said Mrs. Starr calmly; "lead the way."</p>
+
+<p>"I hope it will not be necessary to subject you and Dot to the trial,
+but there is not a minute to spare."</p>
+
+<p>With his lips compressed, the rancher hastily remounted his pony and
+turned his head toward the water.</p>
+
+<p>"Let me keep in advance," he said, "and you can tell what to do."</p>
+
+<p>The obedient horse sniffed the water, but, without hesitation, stepped
+in, sinking to his knees within a yard of the bank.</p>
+
+<p>A rod farther the depth had not materially increased, and, turning his
+head, he signified to his wife to follow. She clasped Dot a little
+closer to her breast, spoke quietly to her animal, and he obeyed without
+faltering.</p>
+
+<p>The water steadily but slowly deepened, and when the middle of the
+stream was reached it was at the stirrups of the leader. He withdrew
+his feet and pushed on, the pony cautiously advancing, and the hope
+growing that the stream would be forded without trouble.</p>
+
+<p>A rod farther, and Mrs. Starr uttered a slight exclamation. She saw the
+steed of her husband suddenly sink, and thought he was going entirely
+under. But he did not, and, by a quick raising of his feet, the rider
+saved them from wetting. His animal still retained a firm foothold, and,
+quickly recovering, kept forward.</p>
+
+<p>Now the water began shallowing, and, with a relief beyond words, the
+rancher reached dry land without having suffered any inconvenience.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank Heaven!" he exclaimed, turning about and watching his wife, who
+guided her animal over the invisible trail until she was beside him on
+the hard earth. It required no little skill on her part, for when she
+withdrew her foot from her stirrup, and was obliged not only to hold her
+own poise, but to take care of Dot, her task became delicate and
+difficult. But the little one behaved like a heroine. She did not speak
+or stir, through fear of disturbing her parent, and was as relieved as
+both when the current was safely forded.</p>
+
+<p>"Are there any more like this?" asked the wife.</p>
+
+<p>"There are other streams, but whether they can be forded or not remains
+to be learned."</p>
+
+<p>The bank sloped upward to a height of a dozen feet, and beyond it
+declined nearly as much, and then stretched away in an open plain for
+more than a mile, before breaking into rough, rocky country, where they
+were quite sure to find greater obstructions confronting them than any
+yet encountered.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, see there!" called out Dot.</p>
+
+<p>Flakes of scurrying snow were in the air, and her father supposed she
+referred to them.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," he replied, "we shall have to ride for a while through a snow
+storm."</p>
+
+<p>"I know that, but it isn't what I mean; yonder is someone following us."</p>
+
+<p>Her position in the arms of her mother gave her opportunity to look back
+over the stream they had just crossed, while the attention of her
+parents was directed elsewhere.</p>
+
+<p>Her words caused both to glance behind them, where they witnessed a
+startling scene. A Sioux Indian, astride of a pony, had halted with the
+fore feet of the animal in the margin of the water. Directly behind him
+was a second horseman, advancing slowly, and immediately to the rear of
+him appeared a third, while the head and shoulders of a fourth were
+rising to view over the bank in the path of the others. And there was no
+saying how many others made up the procession, streaming toward the ford
+in the footsteps of the fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>"Molly," said Mr. Starr, in a low voice, "ride over the top of the hill
+as quickly as you can."</p>
+
+<p>"But what will you do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Never mind; obey me at once or we are lost."</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus1" id="illus1"></a>
+<img src="images/illus1.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">A hot pursuit.</span></h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>She obeyed without remonstrance, though her fear at that moment was more
+for her husband than for herself and child. She was quick-witted enough
+to jerk the reins sharply, so that her pony passed out of sight before
+the pursuers could suspect her purpose. But the moment she was behind
+the sheltering swell, she checked her horse and waited for her husband.</p>
+
+<p>The latter decided on his course of action the moment the peril broke
+upon him.</p>
+
+<p>He calmly confronted the advancing bucks and held himself ready to
+dispute their crossing. Unless he kept them in check and delayed the
+pursuit, nothing could save his family and himself.</p>
+
+<p>The foremost Sioux evidently was the leader. Starr recognized him,
+despite his paint, as a fellow who had visited his home on several
+occasions, and who was known as Bent Arm, because of a peculiar rigidity
+of the left arm, made by some wound received years before.</p>
+
+<p>While the white and red men sat on their ponies facing each other the
+remaining warriors continued coming into view until five of them were
+grouped behind the leader. There they sat&mdash;grim, silent, and
+watchful&mdash;leaving matters wholly in the hands of the one in front.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, observing the rancher at bay, called to him in fair
+English:</p>
+
+<p>"Wait dere&mdash;surrender&mdash;won't hurt."</p>
+
+<p>"Why do you ask me to surrender? We are not enemies," called back the
+white man.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait dere," repeated Bent Arm; "want to talk wid you."</p>
+
+<p>"We are talking now; stay where you are, and let me hear what you have
+to say."</p>
+
+<p>"We go over&mdash;we talk better dere."</p>
+
+<p>It was plain that the Sioux was not satisfied with the action of the
+rancher's wife. She and her child were beyond sight, and it looked as if
+the parley of her husband was meant to give her a chance to get beyond
+reach. Valuable time was passing, and unless they acted promptly, they
+would throw away an opportunity that would never come to them again.</p>
+
+<p>George Starr read their purpose as plainly as if they had announced it
+in so many words. Further talk was useless; the Sioux were bent on
+making him and his family prisoners, and little mercy would be shown
+them. He knew the dear ones were but a few paces away, and his wife
+would never leave the spot so long as he was in danger.</p>
+
+<p>The words had hardly fallen from the lips of Bent Arm when his pony
+began stepping farther into the water, while his companions closed in
+behind him.</p>
+
+<p>Striking his heels sharply against the sides of his horse as the rancher
+drew his head about, he sent the animal over the swell in a couple of
+bounds beyond reach of any shots that might be sent after him. He
+wondered a little that the Indians had not announced their presence by a
+volley that would have brought him from the saddle, but rightly judged
+the reason to be that they preferred to make the little party prisoners,
+considering them as good as already secured.</p>
+
+<p>"Stay where you are!" he called to his wondering wife. "I am going to
+make a fight with them. Our only hope is in keeping them back until it
+is dark."</p>
+
+<p>He was out of the saddle while speaking, and, dropping on his hands and
+knees, crawled up the swell and looked over.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<h3>AT BAY.</h3>
+
+
+<p>George Starr's pony, left to himself, wandered off to the side of the
+other one, on which sat Mrs. Starr, with Dot. The latter reached out her
+chubby hand and patted the silken nose of the intelligent horse, who
+liked the caress. The mother was too agitated to notice this by-play,
+but kept watch for her husband.</p>
+
+<p>The latter crept to within a foot or two of the top of the swell, when
+he quickly but cautiously raised his head and peered over at the Sioux.</p>
+
+<p>But a minute or two had passed since exchanging words with Bent Arm, but
+that brief period was improved as much by one party as the other. The
+Sioux leader's horse was in the stream to the depth of his knees, and
+the second Indian was in the act of entering, with the others close
+behind him.</p>
+
+<p>It was no time for hesitation, for that meant death. Starr shoved his
+Winchester in front, so that the muzzle projected over the swell, took
+deliberate aim at Bent Arm, and let fly.</p>
+
+<p>The distance was short, the rancher was an excellent marksman, and the
+bullet bored its way through the breast of the painted miscreant, who
+hardly knew what hurt him. With a screech, he threw up his arms, one
+grasping his gun, and toppled from the back of his pony, falling with a
+loud splash into the water, where for the moment he disappeared under
+the surface.</p>
+
+<p>George Starr was never cooler in his life. He was fighting not only for
+his own existence, but for those who were dearer to him than that
+existence. He knew the mercilessness of the red men near at hand, and he
+was equally merciless to them.</p>
+
+<p>This proceeding, as may be supposed, caused consternation for a moment
+among the advancing Sioux. The warrior immediately behind the leader
+stopped his pony abruptly, stared at the tuft of grass above which the
+faint puff of smoke was curling; and then, fearful of a second shot
+aimed at himself, whirled his animal about and sent him at one bound up
+the bank of the stream, where his companions, no less dismayed than he,
+threw themselves forward on the backs of their horses, to shield
+themselves from the aim of the rancher.</p>
+
+<p>It was at this crisis that George Starr committed two blunders which
+threatened the very doom he was trying to escape. One of those errors,
+however, did credit to his heart, if not to his head.</p>
+
+<p>Having opened the ball, he should have pushed things unmercifully. He
+was well aware of the venom of those red men, and, with his magazine
+rifle at command, he ought to have kept up an unremitting fire until he
+had tumbled several more to the ground, and driven the survivors beyond
+sight and the power of harm. It was his reluctance to perpetrate such
+slaughter, and the weak hope that he had already accomplished that
+result, that stayed his hand, at the moment when he should have steeled
+his feelings against sympathy. The other equally serious mistake was in
+staying where he was, prone on the ground, with a watchful eye on the
+marauders. He saw, when it was too late, that he should have dashed back
+to his pony, and leaped into the saddle and ridden with his wife, in all
+haste, for the refuge a mile away. Whether that would have proven a
+refuge or not was uncertain, but with the check given the Sioux he would
+have secured a start that promised everything.</p>
+
+<p>Night was approaching, and, in the gathering gloom, it ought not to have
+been difficult, with the advantage named, to throw his pursuers off the
+trail. But he tarried until the chance was irrevocably gone.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux proved on more than one occasion, during their recent troubles
+in the West, that they were capable of daring, coolness, and heroism,
+and are quick to recover from a panic. When driven to bay they will
+fight like wild-cats, and the bleaching bones of many a brave soldier
+and officer bear eloquent witness to these qualities on their part.</p>
+
+<p>Instead of breaking into a wild flight beyond the sheltering bank on the
+other side of the stream, as the rancher expected them to do, they held
+their places on the backs of their ponies, and, leaning over so as to
+protect themselves, returned the fire of the white man.</p>
+
+<p>Looking across the narrow stream, they saw the slouch hat rising in the
+short grass, just behind the projecting muzzle of the Winchester, and a
+couple of them aimed and fired.</p>
+
+<p>But the rancher was too alert to be caught in that fashion. The moment
+he observed the action of the red men, he dropped his head behind the
+swell of earth, and the bullets clipped the grass and scattered the dirt
+harmlessly within a few inches of his crown.</p>
+
+<p>"Be careful!" called the anxious wife, who read the meaning of the
+flying soil; "they will hit you."</p>
+
+<p>"Have no fear of me," replied the husband, without looking around; "I am
+all right; keep back where you are and hold yourself ready to ride as
+fast as you can when I give the word."</p>
+
+<p>The rancher now did that which he should have done in the first place:
+he doffed his hat and laid it on the ground beside him. It was too
+conspicuous under the circumstances, and the Sioux were on the watch for
+it.</p>
+
+<p>Waiting several minutes after the firing of the two shots, he stealthily
+raised his head high enough to look through the grass in front. An
+astonishing sight rewarded him.</p>
+
+<p>In the brief interval that had passed after firing his rifle, the five
+Indians had dashed over the swell with their ponies where the latter
+were out of sight, and, flinging themselves on the ground, took
+precisely the same position as his own. They were now as safe from harm
+as himself. The duel was one of vigilance, caution, skill, and
+watchfulness, with the chances against the white man.</p>
+
+<p>The keen gaze of the latter, wandering over the surface of the stream,
+detected a dark object some distance to the right, as it showed
+indistinctly on the surface, disappearing, and then slowly coming to
+view again farther down. He required no one to tell him that it was the
+victim of his marksmanship, drifting out of sight, as many a one had
+done before, when trying to stay the advancing tide of the hated
+Caucasian.</p>
+
+<p>It struck the rancher that it would be well to let the Sioux know that
+he was still on guard. He caught glimpses here and there of the upper
+part of a repulsive face, with its long black hair and serpent-like
+eyes, on the alert to catch him unawares, and he fired at the nearest.</p>
+
+<p>The aim was good, but there was no reason to believe that he had
+inflicted harm, though he must have come nigh it.</p>
+
+<p>Strange it is that in the most trying moments, when it would seem that a
+trifling thought should be impossible on the part of a person, he
+sometimes gives way to a fancy that is of that nature. Recalling the
+story which he had read when a boy, and which is familiar to all our
+readers, the rancher now picked up his hat at his side and gently raised
+it to view, taking care to lower his own head beyond reach of harm.</p>
+
+<p>Instantly a couple of rifles cracked from the other side of the stream,
+and he smiled grimly when he saw the marks of the bullets in the crown.</p>
+
+<p>"They shoot well," he said, turning his face toward his wife and
+holding up the hat, "but they made a slight mistake that time."</p>
+
+<p>If the Sioux supposed that the last shots were fatal, they were likely
+to repeat their attempt to cross. That would never do, and, more with a
+view of letting them know no harm had resulted, than in the hope of
+inflicting injury, the rancher took aim at what seemed to be the
+forehead of one of the warriors, a short distance up stream, and fired.</p>
+
+<p>To his amazement, the wild screech left no doubt that the shot was
+fatal. The bullet had bored its way through the bronzed skull of the
+miscreant, and the force of assaulting Sioux was now reduced by
+one-third.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3>FACING WESTWARD.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The rancher was astonished beyond measure at the success of his shot. He
+had looked for nothing of the kind, but there could be no mistake as to
+the result; there was nothing to be gained by any pretence on the part
+of the Sioux. He certainly was as dead as dead could be.</p>
+
+<p>How he longed, like a certain famous general, for the coming of night! A
+little more darkness and he would flee with his wife and child under its
+friendly cover, and place a safe distance between them and their
+enemies, before the latter could learn of their flight.</p>
+
+<p>Several minutes passed without a demonstration on either side, but while
+matters stood thus, a new danger presented itself to the rancher. Why
+should the Sioux stay where they were? What was to prevent them moving
+farther up or down the bank, under the screen it afforded, and crossing
+unobserved? The winding course of the current gave every chance of doing
+this, and surely they were not likely to forget such an obvious course.</p>
+
+<p>The thought had hardly presented itself to the watcher when that very
+thing was attempted. The one who essayed it, however, forgot the caution
+he should have remembered.</p>
+
+<p>The slowly settling night and the falling snow may have misled him, but
+when the warrior rode his pony into the stream at a point considerably
+above, Starr observed him at the moment he began descending the bank.</p>
+
+<p>This was something that must be nipped in the bud. He shifted his
+position to where the grass gave slightly better protection, and sighted
+with the utmost care and deliberation.</p>
+
+<p>The shot was successful, but not precisely as he counted upon. The
+bullet, instead of striking the rider, pierced the brain of the pony,
+who reared frantically, plunged forward on his knees, and rolled upon
+his side, the Sioux dexterously saving himself by leaping away and
+scurrying behind the swell before the white man could fire a second
+time.</p>
+
+<p>"If they try it at that point, they will do so at some other," was the
+conclusion of the rancher, turning his gaze down stream. But the current
+made such a sharp bend near at hand, that his view was shortened, and
+the effort could be successfully made without detection on his part.</p>
+
+<p>An unexpected diversion occurred at this moment. The pack-horse, that
+had been contentedly cropping the grass near at hand and paying no heed
+to what was going on about him, wandered toward the bank, and was in
+imminent peril of being shot by the vigilant Sioux before he could be
+turned away.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Starr called sharply to him, and her voice caused the prostrate
+husband to look around. The pony at that moment was ascending the swell,
+to go down on the other side to the water, where he would have been in
+plain sight of the red men.</p>
+
+<p>Fearful that words would not check him, the rancher sprang up and,
+bending his head to save himself from his foes, ran the few steps
+necessary to reach the animal. Catching hold of his bridle, he jerked
+his head in the opposite direction, and, to teach him prudence,
+delivered a vigorous kick. The startled animal headed toward the west
+and broke into a gallop straight across the plain.</p>
+
+<p>"Let him go," said the impatient owner, looking after him: "he is too
+lazy to travel far, and we'll follow him soon."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not do so now?" asked his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"I fear that they are looking for such a move, and will be across before
+we can gain sufficient start."</p>
+
+<p>"But they may do so now."</p>
+
+<p>"Am I not watching them?" asked the husband, beginning to creep up the
+swell again, but pausing before he was high enough to discern the other
+side.</p>
+
+<p>"They may cross above or below, where you cannot see them," remarked the
+wife, giving utterance to the very fear that had troubled him some
+minutes before.</p>
+
+<p>"They may do so, but I have just defeated such an attempt, and they will
+probably wait a while before repeating it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then we can have no more favorable time to leave them than now."</p>
+
+<p>"Such would be the fact, if I only knew of a surety that they would wait
+a while."</p>
+
+<p>"I am afraid you are making a mistake, George."</p>
+
+<p>"It may be, but my judgment is against what you propose. Suppose that,
+at the moment of starting, they should appear on this side; they would
+run us down within a few hundred yards."</p>
+
+<p>"Are not our ponies as fleet as theirs?"</p>
+
+<p>"Probably; but with Dot to look after, you would have more than your
+hands full, and nothing could save us."</p>
+
+<p>"I could manage her very well; but do as you think best. We can only
+pray to Heaven to protect us all."</p>
+
+<p>Looking to the westward, the rancher saw the pack-pony just vanishing
+from sight in the gloom. Brief as was the time that he had left the
+Sioux without watching, he felt that it had been too long, and he now
+made his way up the swell until he could peer over at the other bank,
+where the red men were awaiting the very chance he gave them that
+moment.</p>
+
+<p>The narrowest escape of his life followed. Providentially, his first
+glance was directed at the precise spot where a crouching Sioux made a
+slight movement with his rifle, which gave the white man an instant's
+warning of his peril. He ducked his head, and had he not instinctively
+closed his eyes, would have been blinded by the dust and snow thrown
+against his face, as the leaden ball whizzed through the air, falling on
+the prairie a long distance away.</p>
+
+<p>In its flight it passed directly over the heads of the wife and child,
+who noticed the peculiar whistling sound a few feet above them. But they
+were as safe from such danger as if a mile away. The swell of the bank
+would not allow any missile to come nigh enough to harm them.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't be frightened," he said, with a reassuring smile, "they can't
+touch you as long as they are on the other side."</p>
+
+<p>"But how long will they stay there?" asked the wife, unable to repress
+her uneasiness over the tardiness of her husband.</p>
+
+<p>"Molly," said he, stirred by a sudden thought, "why not ride after the
+pack-horse?"</p>
+
+<p>"And leave you here?" was the astonished question.</p>
+
+<p>"Only for a few minutes; you will gain a good start, and it won't take
+me long to come up with you. I can put my pony on a run, and we shall
+gain invaluable time."</p>
+
+<p>But this was asking more than the obedient wife was willing to grant. No
+possible circumstances could justify her in deserting her husband. If he
+fell, she had no wish to escape.</p>
+
+<p>Dot, who had held her peace so long, now spoke:</p>
+
+<p>"Papa, don't ask us to leave you, 'cause we don't want to. I asked mamma
+to let me go to you, but she says no."</p>
+
+<p>Tears filled the eyes of the father, and his voice trembled as he said:</p>
+
+<p>"Very well, little one; stay with your mamma, and when the time comes
+for us to start we will go together."</p>
+
+<p>"But why don't you go now?" persisted the child, taking her cue,
+perhaps, from the words her mother had spoken.</p>
+
+<p>"I will not keep you waiting long," he assured her, more affected by the
+question of the child than by the arguments of her mother.</p>
+
+<p>Shifting the point of observation, the rancher raised his head just
+enough, cautiously parting the grass in front, to permit him to see the
+other bank, becoming more dimly visible in the falling snow and
+gathering gloom.</p>
+
+<p>He scanned the points whence had come the shots, but could discover
+nothing of his enemies. They might be there, but if so they were
+invisible, as could readily be the case; but, somehow or other, the
+conviction grew upon him that they were moving, and that to postpone his
+departure longer was to invite the worst fate imaginable for himself and
+dear ones.</p>
+
+<p>"We cannot leave too soon," he exclaimed, hastening to carry out the
+purpose that never ought to have been delayed so long.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>IN THE FRINGE OF THE WOODS.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Fully realizing the mistake he had made in waiting, the rancher now did
+his best to improve the precious time at his disposal.</p>
+
+<p>His own pony had remained obediently near his companion, while the brush
+was going on between his master and the Sioux on the other side of the
+stream. The former hastily climbed into the saddle, and taking the reins
+in hand, looked at his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"Are you ready, Molly?"</p>
+
+<p>"I have been for a long time."</p>
+
+<p>"Come on; keep close to me."</p>
+
+<p>He spoke briskly to his horse, who broke into a swift gallop, which was
+imitated so promptly by the other that the couple advanced abreast
+toward the wooded section. It was no time for conversation, and the
+progress continued in silence.</p>
+
+<p>The snow was now falling thick and fast, and the gloom had deepened to
+that extent that they could not see objects more than a hundred feet
+away. Both wife and husband continually glanced behind them, for they
+were almost certain that the red men were in the act of crossing the
+stream at the moment the start was made, and could not be far to the
+rear.</p>
+
+<p>True, the fugitives had much in their favor. The keen eyes of the
+pursuers could detect their trail in the snowy ground, but not for long.
+By and by they might trace it only by dropping down from their ponies
+and using the sense of feeling. This would compel them to proceed
+carefully, and hold them well to the rear while the whites were using
+the occasion to the utmost, and continually gaining ground. Had the
+route to Fort Meade been level and unobstructed, they could have asked
+nothing more favorable. They would have forced their ponies to the
+utmost, and by the time the sun rose the vengeful red men would be
+placed hopelessly behind.</p>
+
+<p>The straining vision saw nothing but the darkness and snow in the
+direction of the stream already crossed, but they could never feel
+relieved of the dreadful fear until safely within the military post of
+the Black Hills.</p>
+
+<p>"Oh, papa, I see a horse!" was the startling exclamation of Dot, whom
+her mother had supposed, because of her stillness and immobility, to be
+asleep.</p>
+
+<p>"Where?" demanded her father, grasping his Winchester and looking
+affrightedly around.</p>
+
+<p>"Not there," replied the child with a laugh, working her arm out of its
+environments, and pointing ahead.</p>
+
+<p>A solitary animal was observed standing as motionless as a statue a
+short distance in advance. Apprehensive of some trap by the Indians, the
+father brought his pony to a sudden stop, his wife instantly imitating
+him, and both peered ahead at the strange form.</p>
+
+<p>They could see no rider, though there was something on the animal's
+back, which might have been a warrior lying flat, so as to protect his
+body from the rifle of the white man, or, what was equally probable, the
+owner was standing on the ground hidden by the horse, and awaiting his
+chance to send in a fatal shot.</p>
+
+<p>"What's the matter?" asked Dot, puzzled by the action of her parents.</p>
+
+<p>"S-h! We are afraid a bad Indian is there."</p>
+
+<p>"Why, can't you see that's Jerry?"</p>
+
+<p>Jerry was the name of the pack pony.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course it is. Why didn't we think of it?" asked the father the next
+moment, relieved beyond measure by the discovery.</p>
+
+<p>Jerry seemed to be of the opinion that it was the place of his friends
+to make the advances, for he did not stir until they rode up beside him.</p>
+
+<p>The lazy fellow was found with his load intact. He had been given all
+the time he could ask for his journey to this point, and evidently was a
+little sulky over the treatment received at the hands, or rather the
+foot, of his master, for his head had to be jerked several times before
+he faced about, and then it required more vigorous treatment to force
+him into a lazy gallop.</p>
+
+<p>Luckily, the greater part of the plain had been crossed before this
+reunion took place, and the party had not gone far when the rancher
+allowed the animals to drop to a walk. In front loomed a dark mass,
+which he recognized as the fringe of the wood observed from the bank of
+the stream behind them. Through this it was necessary to thread their
+way with extreme care, owing to the darkness and their unfamiliarity
+with the ground.</p>
+
+<p>Upon reaching the edge of the wood the fugitives came to a stand-still.</p>
+
+<p>Slipping from his saddle, the rancher brushed away the snow at his feet
+and pressed his ear against the ground.</p>
+
+<p>"I can hear nothing of them," he remarked, resuming the upright posture;
+"I am quite hopeful that that party will molest us no more."</p>
+
+<p>"It won't do to count on it," were the wise words of his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"I think you had better dismount and lead your pony," said the rancher;
+"we can mount again when through the wood; there will be less danger
+from the trees and limbs, and you and Dot must be cramped from sitting
+so long."</p>
+
+<p>He helped them to the ground. It was a relief indeed to both, for they
+had kept their places on the back of the horse for a number of hours.
+Dot yawned, stretched her limbs, and felt as though nothing would
+delight her so much as a frolic in the snow. The thoughtful mother had
+provided her not only with thick, strong shoes, but with heavy
+stockings, leggings, and warm clothing, with which she was well
+protected against the storm that was impending when they left their
+home.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing could have better shown the childish innocence of her nature
+than her action in slyly removing her mittens, stooping down, packing a
+wad of snow with her hands and flinging it against her father's face,
+with a merry laugh.</p>
+
+<p>"Gracious, Dot! how you startled me!" he said, looking around at her.</p>
+
+<p>"Did I hurt you?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; but don't speak or laugh so loud, for some of the bad Indians may
+be near."</p>
+
+<p>"I forgot about that, but I'm going to hit Jerry, for he is so lazy he
+needs it."</p>
+
+<p>And the indolent animal received a tiny whack from the snowy missile
+projected by the chubby hand of the child. He seemed to think, however,
+that it was no more than a snowflake, for he did not give even an extra
+wink of the eye.</p>
+
+<p>The delay was only momentary, when the rancher, with one hand grasping
+the bridle-rein and the other parting the limbs and bushes in front,
+began groping his way through the growth of timber, where it was so dark
+that everyone's eyes were practically useless.</p>
+
+<p>Directly behind the horse walked Dot, with her mother next, leading her
+pony, and the pack-horse bringing up the rear.</p>
+
+<p>Ten minutes of this cautious progress and the leader checked himself
+with an impatient expression.</p>
+
+<p>"What is it?" called the wife, in a guarded voice.</p>
+
+<p>"Another stream of water."</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know anything about it?"</p>
+
+<p>"Nothing; I came near tumbling into it, with Dick on top of me; if he
+hadn't scented it first I would have done so."</p>
+
+<p>"What is to be done?" asked Mrs. Starr, as grievously disappointed as
+her husband.</p>
+
+<p>"I'm blessed if I know; it may be half a mile deep and ten miles across,
+with a perpendicular bluff a thousand feet high on the other side."</p>
+
+<p>Leaving her pony, the wife took the hand of Dot and joined him where he
+had halted on the edge of the unknown stream.</p>
+
+<p>"I've made up my mind that we shall do one thing right away," he
+remarked decisively.</p>
+
+<p>"What's that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Eat supper while we have the chance; Jerry is on hand with the
+provisions, and he may be somewhere else in the morning."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm glad of that," said the happy Dot, "for I'm awfuller hungry than I
+ever was in all my life."</p>
+
+<p>"Then supper it is."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>TURNED BACK.</h3>
+
+
+<p>It was a wise proceeding on the part of the rancher. The opportunity to
+make a substantial repast was theirs, and as he had remarked, there was
+no certainty when it would come again.</p>
+
+<p>The bag in which the provisions were placed was taken from the back of
+Jerry, and the father helped his child and wife, who ate until they were
+fully satisfied. He dipped up water with Dot's small tin cup from the
+stream in front, and with it their thirst was slaked.</p>
+
+<p>"Molly," he suggested, "you can carry one or two of the sandwiches
+without inconvenience."</p>
+
+<p>"Yes."</p>
+
+<p>"Let us both do so; we may lose Jerry, and if so, they will come in
+handy."</p>
+
+<p>"I have a couple, too," said Dot.</p>
+
+<p>"It isn't best that you should burden yourself with them."</p>
+
+<p>"But I can't help it, papa."</p>
+
+<p>"How is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"They're inside of me," and the parents, even in their great dread,
+smiled at the odd conceit of the little one, who chuckled softly to
+think how she had "fooled" her papa.</p>
+
+<p>The delay was brief. The rancher knew that it was impossible to reach
+Fort Meade without crossing the stream before them, with the probability
+that still others awaited them at no great distance. It can be
+understood with what depth of dread he contemplated swimming the animals
+over, with the certainty of the saturation of all their garments, on
+this winter night, and the cold steadily increasing.</p>
+
+<p>In short, it meant perishing, unless a fire was kindled, in which case,
+a delay would be necessitated that would throw away all the advantage
+secured by flight. He was determined not to do it, unless actually
+driven to it as a last resource.</p>
+
+<p>He did not forget that he was now where there was an abundance of
+material with which a raft could be constructed that would obviate this
+exposure, but the building of such a rude craft, under the
+circumstances, was next to impossible. He had no implement except his
+pocket knife, and might grope about in the darkness for hours without
+getting together enough timber to float them to the other side.</p>
+
+<p>Obviously one of two things must be done&mdash;try to cross where they were
+or follow the bank down until a fording place could be found, and
+repeated trials were likely to be necessary before success was
+obtainable.</p>
+
+<p>Singular it is that so often out of the mouths of babes are heard the
+words of wisdom.</p>
+
+<p>The rancher had risen to his feet, and was in the act of mounting his
+pony to enter the water, when Dot spoke:</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't you let Dick go ahead and you ride behind on Sally?"</p>
+
+<p>"Well, I declare!" exclaimed the father admiringly; "I begin to believe
+that if we reach the fort, it will be through your guidance, my precious
+little one," and, stooping over, he kissed her cheek.</p>
+
+<p>"Strange that we did not think of that," remarked the mother. "Dot is
+wise beyond her years."</p>
+
+<p>The plan was adopted at once.</p>
+
+<p>The mare ridden by the mother and child, and the horse of the father,
+were so intelligent that no risk was involved in the essay, which
+insured against the immersion held in such natural dread.</p>
+
+<p>The saddle and trappings were removed from Dick, while the rancher
+mounted upon the side-saddle belonging to his wife. Then the horse was
+ordered to enter the water, and, with some hesitation, he obeyed, his
+owner being but a step or two behind on the mare.</p>
+
+<p>The gloom was so deep that the hearing, and not the sight, must be
+depended upon. That, however, was reliable when nothing was likely to
+occur to divert it from its duty.</p>
+
+<p>The stream was no more than fairly entered when the rancher made two
+unwelcome discoveries: The current was much stronger than he had
+anticipated, and the water deepened rapidly. Ten feet from shore it
+touched the body of the mare.</p>
+
+<p>Inasmuch, however, as Dick was still walking, there was hope that the
+depth might increase no more, or, at most, not to a dangerous extent.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Starr could not see his own horse, but he plainly heard him as he
+advanced cautiously, feeling his way, and showing by his sniffing that
+the task was anything but pleasant to him. Not knowing the width of the
+stream, it was impossible to tell in what portion of it they were: but
+he was already listening for the sounds which would show that his animal
+was climbing out on the other side, when the very thing he feared took
+place.</p>
+
+<p>A loud splash, followed by a peculiar rustling noise, showed that Dick
+was swimming.</p>
+
+<p>At the same moment the mare sank so deeply that, had not the rider
+thrown his feet backward along her spine, with his body extended over
+the saddle and her neck, he would have been saturated to the knees. As
+it was, Sally was within a hair of being carried off her feet by the
+force of the current.</p>
+
+<p>The rancher drew her head around, and, after a sharp struggle, she held
+her own, and began laboring back to the shore she had left; putting
+forth such vigor that it was plain the task was far more agreeable than
+the one upon which she first ventured.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, Dick was swimming powerfully for the farther bank, and before
+his owner could think of calling to him, owing to his own flurry, he
+heard his hoofs stamp the hard earth. True, he had landed, but that
+brief space of deep water was as bad as if its width were ten times as
+great; it could not be passed without the saturation of the garments of
+all, and that, as has been said, was not to be endured.</p>
+
+<p>Before the mare could return Mr. Starr called to his pony, and the
+animal promptly obeyed, emerging only a minute after the mare from the
+point where he had entered.</p>
+
+<p>"It's no use," he said to his waiting wife and little one; "there is one
+place where the horses must swim."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you get wet, papa?" enquired Dot, solicitous for his welfare.</p>
+
+<p>"No; but I came mighty near it."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I suppose we must follow down the stream, and try it elsewhere,"
+said the wife.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, with the discouraging fact that we are likely to pass a dozen
+fordable points, and strike a place that is deeper than anywhere else."</p>
+
+<p>The saddles were readjusted, and the move made without delay. Since it
+was hard to thread their way through the wood, which lined the stream
+only a short distance from the water, they withdrew from it to the
+prairie, where travelling was easier.</p>
+
+<p>Reaching the open plain, but keeping close to the margin of the timber,
+from which, fortunately, they had emerged at a point considerably
+removed from that of the entrance, the rancher repeated the precaution
+he had used before.</p>
+
+<p>"Wait a moment," he said, in a low voice.</p>
+
+<p>Once more the snow was brushed aside at his feet and the ear pressed
+against the ground.</p>
+
+<p>To his dismay he heard the tramp of horses' hoofs on the hard earth.</p>
+
+<p>"They are near at hand!" he said, in a startled whisper; "we must get
+away as quickly as we can."</p>
+
+<p>He hastily helped his wife and little one on the back of the mare,
+mounted his own animal, and, with the pack-horse at the rear, moved
+along the timber on a rapid walk, continually peering off in the gloom,
+as though it was possible for him to see the Sioux, who certainly were
+at no great distance.</p>
+
+<p>One fear troubled him: Suppose they should resort to the same artifice
+as he, and one of them appeal to the earth for evidence. He would be
+equally quick to discover the proximity of the fugitives, and with his
+sense of hearing trained to the finest point by many years' exercise,
+would locate the whites with unerring precision.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3>MISSING.</h3>
+
+
+<p>But there was no avoiding the risk. In silence the little party threaded
+their way along the margin of the prairie, listening for the sounds they
+dreaded to hear, and peering through the gloom for the forms they held
+in unspeakable fear. Not until they had progressed several hundred yards
+can it be said that the rancher breathed freely. Then he checked his
+pony, and those behind him did the same.</p>
+
+<p>The next instant he was out of the saddle, with his ear once more
+against the cold earth.</p>
+
+<p>Not the slightest sound reached him through this better conductor. If
+the Sioux horsemen were moving, they were too far off for the fact to be
+known. When first heard, they must have been close to the wood, on
+reaching which they undoubtedly dismounted and advanced on foot.</p>
+
+<p>In that event, they must detect the footprints of the ponies in advance,
+and with their skill in trailing were certain to learn of the course
+taken by the whites. Then the pursuit would be resumed in earnest, and
+the perils would increase.</p>
+
+<p>One possible remedy suggested itself, though there was no certainty of
+its success. The snow was now falling so fast that it promised to
+obliterate the footprints to that extent that they could not be followed
+in the dark. As it was, even the lynx eyes of the Sioux could avail them
+nothing. One of their number must be continually dismounting and using
+his hands to make sure they were not off the track. A half hour or more
+interval, and this resource would be taken from them by the descending
+snow.</p>
+
+<p>It was this belief which caused the rancher to ride Dick among the
+trees, where he and the rest dismounted. Then they groped forward with
+no little difficulty for some rods and halted.</p>
+
+<p>"Be careful," he said, speaking particularly to Dot, "and do not make
+any noise, for I believe those bad Indians are not far off, and they
+are looking for us."</p>
+
+<p>Dot showed her obedience by not venturing to whisper.</p>
+
+<p>It was not Mr. Starr's purpose to lose time by staying where they were.
+Accordingly, after threading their way for some distance farther, he
+emerged once more on the plain, and, as they remounted, rode straight
+away from the timber.</p>
+
+<p>The object of this stratagem can be readily understood. The pursuing
+Sioux, after discovering that the trail of the fugitives led along the
+margin of the wood, were likely to override it for some way, before
+learning the fact. Then they would turn about and hunt until they found
+it again. The fact that at that point it entered the timber must cause
+another delay, where the difficulty of tracing the whites would be
+greatly increased. By the time they came back again to the open plain,
+the fall of snow was likely to render further pursuit almost, if not
+quite, impossible.</p>
+
+<p>This was the theory which guided the rancher's actions, though he was
+too wise to lose sight of the probability of serious miscalculations on
+his part. There was another danger, however, of which he failed to
+think, but which was not long in manifesting itself.</p>
+
+<p>By shifting his course so often, and leaving the stream altogether, he
+was sure to lose his bearings in the darkness. Instead of following the
+most direct route to Fort Meade, he was liable to turn back on his old
+trail, with the result that when the sun rose in the morning he would be
+in the vicinity of his home, with the environing perils more threatening
+than ever.</p>
+
+<p>Beyond all question this would have been the result had not nature come
+to his help. He was on the point of turning his pony's head around, to
+re-enter the timber he had left, when he discovered to his astonishment
+that he had already reached it. There were the trees directly in front,
+with the nose of Dick almost touching a projecting limb.</p>
+
+<p>He was at a loss to understand it until his wife suggested that the
+winding course of the stream was responsible for the situation. Even
+then he hardly believed until investigation convinced him that it was
+the same swift current flowing in front.</p>
+
+<p>"We unconsciously strayed from a direct course, and must have been going
+at right angles to the correct one."</p>
+
+<p>"There is no saying, George; only I advise you not to make too many
+experiments in the darkness. Several hours have passed since night came,
+and we are not making much progress toward the fort."</p>
+
+<p>"You are quite right," was the nervous response, "but safety seemed to
+demand it. How are you standing it, Dot?"</p>
+
+<p>The child made no answer.</p>
+
+<p>"She is asleep," whispered the mother.</p>
+
+<p>"I hope that it may last until morning. If you are tired of holding her
+in your arms I will take her."</p>
+
+<p>"When I grow weary of that," was the significant reply of the wife, "I
+will let you know."</p>
+
+<p>Inasmuch as the continually obtruding stream must be crossed, and the
+precious hours were fast passing, the rancher gave every energy to
+surmounting the difficulty.</p>
+
+<p>As he led the way once more to the edge of the water, he asked himself
+whether the wisest course was not to construct a raft. The work promised
+to be so difficult, however, that he would have abandoned the thought
+had he not come upon a heavy log, lying half submerged at the very spot
+where he struck the water.</p>
+
+<p>"This will be of great help," he said to his wife.</p>
+
+<p>Leaning his Winchester against the nearest tree, he drew out his rubber
+safe and struck a match. The appearance of the log was encouraging, and
+after some lifting and tugging he succeeded in rolling it into the
+stream.</p>
+
+<p>That ended the matter. To his chagrin, the water-soaked wood sank like
+so much mud.</p>
+
+<p>"We won't experiment any longer," concluded the disappointed rancher;
+"but try the same thing as before."</p>
+
+<p>Dick was stripped again and put in the lead, with his master following
+on the back of the mare. Mrs. Starr, being helped to the ground, stood
+with the sleeping Dot in her arms, awaiting the return of her husband
+from his disagreeable experiment.</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven grant that this maybe the right place," was his prayer, as he
+entered upon the second essay; "if we are turned back again I shall be
+in despair."</p>
+
+<p>His interest was intensified, for he was impressed with the belief that
+this was to be the decisive and final test.</p>
+
+<p>As if Dick, too, felt the seriousness of the situation, he stepped
+resolutely forward, bracing himself against the strong current which was
+heard washing about his limbs. It seemed to the anxious rancher that he
+could discern the figure of his pony as he led the way through the
+gloom, only a short distance in advance of the mare.</p>
+
+<p>When certain that they were fully half-way across, his heart began to
+beat with hope at finding that the water did not touch the stirrup in
+which one foot rested. It was plain also that the leading horse was
+still firmly wading.</p>
+
+<p>With a relief which possibly may be imagined, the horseman heard Dick
+step out on the bank a few minutes later. He had waded the whole
+distance, thus proving that the stream was easily fordable at that
+point.</p>
+
+<p>The delighted rancher could hardly repress a cheer. But for his fear
+that the Sioux might be in the vicinity, he would have announced the
+joyous fact to his wife.</p>
+
+<p>"Perhaps, however, her sharp ears have told her the truth," was his
+thought, as he wheeled the mare about and started to return, leaving
+Dick to follow him, as he would be needed to help the party over.</p>
+
+<p>With never a thought of danger, the animal was forced hastily through
+the water, coming out a few paces below where she had entered it.</p>
+
+<p>"We are all right," he called; "we will be over in a jiffy."</p>
+
+<p>To his astonishment there was no response. He pronounced his wife's
+name, but still no reply came. Then he moved up and down the bank,
+stirred by an awful fear, but heard and found her not.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>A THIEF OF THE NIGHT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>When the rancher entered the current with the two ponies, the interest
+of the wife, who remained behind with little Dot, was centred wholly in
+his effort to ford the stream. She stood on the very margin of the
+water, where, though unable to see the form of the rider or either of
+the animals, she could hear the sound made by them in passing through
+the current.</p>
+
+<p>In this position, the pack-pony remained a few steps behind her and
+about half-way to the open plain. The child, who had been somewhat
+disturbed by the shifting about of herself, had fallen asleep again and
+rested motionless in her arms, with her form nestling in the protecting
+blanket.</p>
+
+<p>Everything was silent except the slight noise caused by the animals in
+the water. In this position, with her nerves strung to the highest
+point, and her faculties absorbed in the single one of hearing, she
+caught a suspicious sound immediately behind her. It was as if Jerry was
+moving from the spot where he had been left.</p>
+
+<p>Fearful of his going astray, her lips parted to speak, when,
+fortunately, she held her peace. It might be that some person was the
+cause of his action.</p>
+
+<p>With the purpose of learning the truth, she stole through the timber
+toward the spot where he was standing a few minutes before. She was so
+close behind him, and moved so much faster, that she reached the open
+plain almost on his heels. Despite the gloom, she could make out his
+figure; and her feelings may be imagined when she distinguished the form
+of a Sioux warrior leading him.</p>
+
+<p>Not only that, but the thief paused as soon as the open prairie was
+reached and lightly vaulted upon his back, beside the load already
+resting there. Then he hammered his heels against his ribs and the lazy
+beast rose to a jogging trot, immediately disappearing in the snow and
+darkness.</p>
+
+<p>The wife, as may be supposed, was dumfounded and uncertain what to do,
+if indeed she could do anything. At the moment when it looked as if all
+danger was past, one of their enemies had unexpectedly stolen their
+pack-pony.</p>
+
+<p>Where were the rest? Why did they content themselves with this simple
+act, when they might have done a thousandfold worse? How soon would the
+rest be on the spot? Was there no hope now of escape for the miserable
+fugitives?</p>
+
+<p>These and similar thoughts were passing through her mind, when she heard
+her husband calling to her in a cautious voice. Not daring to reply,
+through fear of attracting the attention of their enemies, she threaded
+her way through the timber, and reached his side at the moment his heart
+was filled with despair at the belief that something frightful had taken
+place.</p>
+
+<p>The joy of the rancher, on clasping his beloved wife once more in his
+arms, caused him to forget everything else for the moment, but she
+quickly made known the startling incident that had occurred.</p>
+
+<p>"Heavens!" he muttered, "they have traced us after all, but where are
+the rest?"</p>
+
+<p>"They must be near," she replied, laying her hand on his arm. "Listen!"</p>
+
+<p>They did so, but heard nothing more.</p>
+
+<p>"We must cross at once," he whispered.</p>
+
+<p>No time was lost in following the prudent suggestion. The wife was
+helped upon the back of the mare, Dot still remaining asleep, and the
+husband, mounted on Dick, placed himself in front.</p>
+
+<p>"There is only one place, and that lasts but for a few steps, where you
+will have to raise your foot to protect it from the water," he said, as
+they were about to enter the stream.</p>
+
+<p>"I will remember," she nervously replied; "don't wait."</p>
+
+<p>Once again the faithful pony entered the water, the mare so close behind
+that husband and wife could have touched each other, and the fording of
+the current began.</p>
+
+<p>The rancher did not forget that it was impossible in the darkness to
+follow precisely his own course. Having emerged at a different point
+from where he entered, he was in reality following a different course,
+which might be the same as if it were a half mile farther up or down
+stream.</p>
+
+<p>This proved to be the case, though the disappointment was of an
+agreeable nature, for the ponies struck a shallower part than that which
+was first forded. At no portion did the water do more than barely touch
+the bodies of the animals, and then only for a few steps. Once the mare
+slipped on a smooth stone, and came within a hair of unseating her
+rider, but the latter's skill enabled her to retain her seat, and a few
+minutes later the two came out on the other side, without a drop of
+moisture on their garments.</p>
+
+<p>"Thank Heaven!" was the fervent ejaculation of the husband as the fact
+was accomplished. "It is better than I expected."</p>
+
+<p>"But don't forget that they may have done the same thing, and perhaps
+are awaiting us near at hand."</p>
+
+<p>"You may be right, Molly, and we cannot be too careful."</p>
+
+<p>The words were barely uttered when the splashing of water behind them
+left no doubt that the Sioux were again on their trail.</p>
+
+<p>"Quick!" whispered the husband; "dismount; you can't ride the mare among
+the trees; she will follow, and don't fail to keep close behind Dick."</p>
+
+<p>It was important, above all things, to leave the spot before the red men
+landed. Otherwise, they would hear the horses and locate them without
+difficulty.</p>
+
+<p>A disappointment awaited our friends. It will be remembered that the
+fringe of timber on the other side was quite narrow, and they naturally
+supposed it corresponded on the farther shore. But after threading their
+way for double the distance, they were surprised to find no evidence of
+the open plain beyond.</p>
+
+<p>The rancher dared not continue farther while there was reason to fear
+their pursuers were near. The brushing of the branches against the
+bodies of the animals and the noise of their hoofs could be detected in
+the silence, and was sure to betray the fugitives to any Sioux within a
+hundred yards.</p>
+
+<p>The wife understood why the halt was made. Her husband stole back and
+placed himself by her side.</p>
+
+<p>"You must be wearied with carrying Dot so long," he said sympathizingly.</p>
+
+<p>"It is quite a trial," she replied, in the same guarded voice, "but
+there is no help for it, and I beg you to give the matter no thought."</p>
+
+<p>"Let me take her a while."</p>
+
+<p>"No, that will not do; you must hold your gun ready for instant use, and
+you could not do so with her in your arms. It is not so hard when we are
+sitting on the mare, for it is easy to arrange it so that she supports
+most of her weight."</p>
+
+<p>"You are a good, brave woman, Molly, and deserve to be saved."</p>
+
+<p>"Sh!" she admonished; "I hear something."</p>
+
+<p>He knew she was right, for he caught the sound at the same moment.
+Someone was stealing through the wood near them. It was a person, beyond
+question, for a horse would have made more noise, and the sounds of his
+hoofs would have been more distinct than anything else. That which, fell
+upon their ears was the occasional crackling of a twig, and the brushing
+aside of the obtruding limbs. No matter with what care an Indian warrior
+threaded his way through the timber in this dense gloom, he could not
+avoid such slight evidences of his movements&mdash;so slight, indeed, that
+but for the oppressive stillness and the strained hearing of the husband
+and wife they would not have detected them.</p>
+
+<p>Confident that the red man could not trace them in the gloom, even
+though so dangerously near, the dread now was that the ponies would
+betray them. Those watchful animals often prove the most valuable allies
+of the fleeing fugitive, for they possess the power of discovering
+impending danger before it can become known to their masters. But when
+they make such discovery they are apt to announce it by a stamp of the
+hoof or with a sniffing of the nostrils, which, while serving the master
+well, has the disadvantage also of apprising the enemy that his approach
+has become known.</p>
+
+<p>Stealing from his position beside his wife, the rancher stepped to the
+mare and passed his hand reassuringly over her mouth, doing the same
+with his own pony. This action was meant as a command for them to hold
+their peace, though whether it was understood to the extent that it
+would be obeyed, remains to be seen.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THROUGH THE WOOD.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Even in that trying moment, Starr could not help reflecting upon the
+peculiar turn matters had taken. He failed to understand the action of
+the solitary Sioux on the other side, who had contented himself with the
+simple theft of the pack-pony, when he might have done tenfold more
+injury to the fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>And now, judging from the slight sounds that reached him, there was
+another single warrior prowling through the wood, instead of several. It
+might be, however, that his companions were near, awaiting the result of
+his reconnoissance, and would descend upon the whites the instant the
+way opened.</p>
+
+<p>But these speculations were cut short by the alarming discovery that
+some strange fatality was bringing the scout fearfully close to where
+the husband and wife were standing beside their animals, hardly daring
+to speak in the most guarded whispers.</p>
+
+<p>It must have been that the ponies understood what was expected from
+them, for they gave not the least sound. There was not a stamp of a
+hoof, and their breathing was as gentle as an infant's. So long as they
+remained mute it would seem that the peril must pass by.</p>
+
+<p>And so it ought to have done, for assuredly the Indian could have gained
+no clew to the whereabouts of the fugitives from them or their animals.</p>
+
+<p>But all the same, George Starr was not long in making the uncomfortable
+discovery that the red man was at his elbow, and the crisis was upon
+him.</p>
+
+<p>The rancher knew where the miscreant was, and he determined to chance
+it. He silently clubbed his Winchester, brought it back over his left
+shoulder, and, concentrating his utmost strength in his arms, brought
+down the butt of this weapon with resistless force.</p>
+
+<p>It could not have been better aimed had the sun been shining. It crashed
+on the crown of the unsuspecting Sioux, who sank silently to the earth,
+and it is enough to say that the "subsequent proceedings interested him
+no more."</p>
+
+<p>"Sh!" whispered the husband; "there may be others near us; do you hear
+anything?"</p>
+
+<p>Neither could catch any suspicious noise, and he concluded it was best
+to move on. If they should remain where they were when daylight came,
+all hope would be gone. The situation would be hardly improved if they
+stayed any longer in the gloom, after what had taken place.</p>
+
+<p>Making known his purpose to his wife, he placed himself at the head of
+Dick, and holding his bit, started forward. The mare followed the moment
+she heard what was going on, and the mother with her child walked
+between.</p>
+
+<p>But less than twenty steps were taken, when the leader paused abruptly,
+alarmed by an altogether unexpected discovery. The twinkle of a light
+appeared among the trees in front, so directly in their path that, had
+they continued straight forward, they would have stepped into the blaze.</p>
+
+<p>This was cause for astonishment, and suggested that the fugitives had
+struck a place where other Sioux had gathered, probably a number who
+knew nothing of what had taken place a short time before. If this were
+true, there ought not to be much difficulty in working past them.</p>
+
+<p>Still, critical as was the situation, he felt that the chance to learn
+something ought not to be thrown away. Whispering to his wife to remain
+where she was, he left her and stole forward until he could gain sight
+of the blaze and those surrounding it.</p>
+
+<p>There was the fire made by a number of sticks heaped against the trunk
+of a tree, and burning vigorously, but to his surprise, not an Indian
+was in sight. How many had been gathered there, how long since they had
+left, whether they would return, and if so, how soon? All these were
+questions that must be left to some other time before even attempting to
+guess the answers.</p>
+
+<p>He waited some minutes, thinking possibly the missing warriors would
+return, but not one showed up, and he felt it would not do to tarry
+longer. A goodly portion of the night had already passed, and Fort Meade
+was still a long distance away, with a dangerous stretch of country to
+pass.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed to the husband and wife that they hardly breathed, as they
+moved through the wood. He held his pony by the rein with his left hand,
+while he used the right, grasping the Winchester, to open the way in
+front. They could do nothing more, listening meanwhile for the sounds of
+danger which they expected to hear every moment.</p>
+
+<p>But lo! while they were advancing in this guarded manner, they suddenly
+came out of the wood and into the open country again.</p>
+
+<p>The husband uttered another exclamation of thankfulness, and checked the
+animals.</p>
+
+<p>"Now it looks as if we had a chance to accomplish something," he said,
+"and I am sure you are in need of rest."</p>
+
+<p>"I am somewhat weary, but I can stand a great deal more, George; give no
+thought to me, but think only of the peril from which we must escape
+this night or never."</p>
+
+<p>He gently took the little Dot, swathed as she was in the heavy blanket,
+and held her while his wife remounted the mare, without help. We have
+said she was an excellent horsewoman, as she had proved before this
+eventful night.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," said he, when she was firmly seated and extended her arms to take
+the child, "I am going to use my authority as a husband over you."</p>
+
+<p>"Have I not always been an obedient wife?" she asked, with mock
+humility.</p>
+
+<p>"No man was ever blessed with a better helpmate," was the reply.</p>
+
+<p>"I await your commands, my lord."</p>
+
+<p>Instead of passing the child to her, he reached up his rifle.</p>
+
+<p>"What is the meaning of that?" she asked wonderingly.</p>
+
+<p>"Lay it across the saddle in front, where its weight will not discommode
+you. I shall carry Dot."</p>
+
+<p>"But think, George, of the risk it involves. I assure you that it will
+be no task for me to take care of her now that I am in the saddle
+again."</p>
+
+<p>"All discussion is ended," he replied, with a severity which she well
+knew was assumed, though she did not dispute him. She accepted the
+weapon and placed it in position as he directed. Then supporting the
+precious child with one arm, he mounted his pony and placed himself by
+her side.</p>
+
+<p>"We will ride abreast; if any emergency calls for the use of my gun, I
+can pass Dot to you in an instant; you must remember too, that I have a
+revolver, which may serve me better in any sudden peril."</p>
+
+<p>"I obey," she replied, "but you will not deny me the right to think you
+are committing a mistake; since, however, it is actuated by love, I
+appreciate it."</p>
+
+<p>"I assure you," he said with deep feeling, "that aside from the
+consideration due you, I am acting for the best. I wish you, as long as
+possible, to remain at my side. We have made so many turnings and
+changes in our course that I have lost all idea of the points of the
+compass; I do not know whether we are going toward Fort Meade or
+straying off to the right or left, with the probability that in the
+morning we may be far out of the way. Help me to keep our bearings."</p>
+
+<p>And husband and wife rode out on the prairie in the darkness and falling
+snow.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>NIGHT AND MORNING.</h3>
+
+
+<p>By this time the snow lay to the depth of several inches on the earth.
+It was still falling, and the cold was increasing. The flakes were
+slighter, and there were fewer of them. His knowledge of the weather
+told the rancher that the fall would cease after a while, with a still
+further lowering of the temperature. Thanks, however, to the
+thoughtfulness of his wife more than himself, they were so plentifully
+provided with blankets and extra garments that they were not likely to
+suffer any inconvenience from that cause.</p>
+
+<p>Fortunately for them and greatly to their relief, the stretch of prairie
+which they had struck continued comparatively level. Occasionally they
+ascended a slight elevation or rode down a declivity, but in no case for
+more than two hours was either so steep that the ponies changed their
+gait from the easy swinging canter to a walk.</p>
+
+<p>Once, after riding down a slight decline, they struck another stream,
+but it was little more than a brook, so strait that a dozen steps
+brought them out on the other side with little more than the wetting of
+their animals' hoofs.</p>
+
+<p>They rode side by side, for the mare was as fleet and enduring as the
+horse. Now and then they glanced back, but saw nothing to cause alarm,
+and hope became stronger than before.</p>
+
+<p>"We are doing remarkably well," said the husband, breaking the silence
+for the first time in a half hour.</p>
+
+<p>"Yes," was the thoughtful reply; "we must have travelled a good many
+miles since the last start, and there is only one danger that troubles
+me."</p>
+
+<p>"What is that?"</p>
+
+<p>"The probability&mdash;nay, the almost certainty&mdash;that we are not journeying
+toward the fort."</p>
+
+<p>"I have thought much of that," replied the husband, giving voice to a
+misgiving that had disturbed him more than he was willing to admit; "it
+is as you say, that the chances are against our proceeding in a direct
+line, but it is equally true that the general course is right."</p>
+
+<p>"How can you know that?"</p>
+
+<p>"Because we have crossed two streams that were in our path, and they
+remain behind us."</p>
+
+<p>"But," reminded the thoughtful wife, "you forget that those same streams
+are very winding in their course. If they followed a direct line, we
+could ask no more proof that we are on the right track."</p>
+
+<p>"True, but it cannot be that they take such a course that we are
+travelling toward the ranch again."</p>
+
+<p>"Hardly as bad as that, but if we are riding at right angles in either
+direction, we shall be in a sad plight when the morning comes. The sun
+will take from us all chance of dodging the Sioux so narrowly as we have
+done more than once since leaving home."</p>
+
+<p>"We must not forget the peril of which you speak; at such times I trust
+much to the instinct of the animals."</p>
+
+<p>"And would not that, in the present case, lead them to go toward rather
+than from home?"</p>
+
+<p>"I'm blessed if I thought of that!"</p>
+
+<p>The rancher was filled with dismay for the moment, and brought Dick down
+to a walk.</p>
+
+<p>"No," he added the next moment, striking him into a gallop again, "if
+they were left to themselves they would try to make their way to the
+ranch, but they have been under too much guidance, and have been forced
+to do too many disagreeable things, for them to attempt that. I am sure
+we are nearing Fort Meade."</p>
+
+<p>"I trust so," was the response of the wife; which remark did anything
+but add to the hopefulness of her husband.</p>
+
+<p>The animals now began to show signs of fatigue. The snow balled under
+their hoofs, causing a peculiar jolting to the riders, when it became so
+big that the weight broke it or made their feet slip off, when new
+gatherings commenced immediately to form.</p>
+
+<p>After being forced to a canter the horses would drop of their own accord
+to a walk, and soon they were left to continue at their own gait.</p>
+
+<p>"How far, Molly, do you think we have come?" asked the rancher.</p>
+
+<p>"It must be fifteen miles, and possibly more; if it were in a direct
+line, adding what we made before crossing the last stream, it would be
+safe to wait until morning."</p>
+
+<p>Again the wife gave expression to the thought that was in her husband's
+mind. He had been asking himself for the last half hour whether it would
+not be wise to come to a halt for daylight. The rest thus secured to the
+animals would enable them to do much better, when the right course could
+be determined with absolute certainty, and a few hours' brisk riding
+ought to take them beyond all fear of their harassing enemies.</p>
+
+<p>There remained the haunting fear of their being on the wrong course. If
+daylight found them little nearer the fort than when at the ranch, their
+situation would be most critical. But all speculation on that important
+matter must remain such until the truth could be learned.</p>
+
+<p>One reason why the rancher did not propose a halt before it was hinted
+at by his wife, was that no suitable place presented itself. It would
+not do to camp in the open plain, where there was no shelter for them or
+their animals; they must keep on until the ground changed.</p>
+
+<p>That change came sooner than they anticipated. The ponies were plodding
+forward with their loads, when, before either of the riders suspected
+it, they were on the edge of another growth of timber, which promised
+the very thing they sought.</p>
+
+<p>"Here we are!" said Mr. Starr, "and I think we can say that the journey
+will be suspended until daylight."</p>
+
+<p>"If there is another stream, George, I shall feel safer if we place
+ourselves on the other side before we halt for the rest of the night."</p>
+
+<p>"I don't view another fording with much pleasure, but we can soon find
+out how it is."</p>
+
+<p>The character of this timber differed from that which they had already
+passed, in that it abounded with so many bowlders and rocks that, after
+penetrating it a short way, it became too dangerous for the ponies to
+persevere. They were liable at any moment to break a limb.</p>
+
+<p>"Remain here a few minutes while I investigate," said the rancher,
+passing the sleeping Dot to his wife.</p>
+
+<p>He penetrated more than a hundred yards, without coming upon any water.
+He did not go farther, for he was satisfied there was none near them.
+The ground not only grew more rocky and precipitous as he advanced, but
+steadily rose, so as to show that he was at the base of a ridge over
+which it was a difficult matter to make their way. It would have been
+folly to try it in the darkness, and on his return he sought some spot
+favorable for going into camp.</p>
+
+<p>He was more successful than he expected. A mass of rocks was found,
+whose tops projected sufficiently to afford a fair shelter. The snow,
+slanting from the other direction, left a comparatively large surface
+bare. Here the ponies were drawn to one side and their trappings
+removed. There were not enough spare blankets to cover them as the
+fugitives wished to do, but they were too tough to suffer much.</p>
+
+<p>Then the blankets were distributed, and so placed that when the husband
+and wife huddled together against the base of the rocks, they, as well
+as Dot, were quite comfortable. The rancher might have gathered wood and
+started a fire, but it was not needed, and they feared the consequences
+of such a proceeding. They were so worn out with the trials and toil of
+the night, that they soon sank into a deep slumber which lasted till
+morning. Then, upon awaking, the first act of the rancher was to
+ascertain his bearings, so far as it was possible to do so.</p>
+
+<p>The result was the disheartening conviction that they were no nearer
+Fort Meade than when they forded the last stream early on the preceding
+night.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>A STARTLING SURPRISE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>We must not forget that young Warren Starr and Tim Brophy have an
+important part to play in the incidents we have set out to relate.</p>
+
+<p>We left them in the wooded rocky section, where they had spent the night
+together in the rude shelter erected a year before when on their hunting
+excursions. They were awakened by the frenzied cry of the young
+Irishman's horse, and appeared on the scene just in time to save the
+pony from a grizzly bear, who made things exceedingly lively for the
+young gentlemen themselves.</p>
+
+<p>But relieved of their peril, they sat down like sensible persons to make
+their morning meal from the lunch brought thither by Tim. They ate
+heartily, never pausing until the last particle of food was gone. Then
+they rose like giants refreshed with new wine.</p>
+
+<p>"Now," said Warren, "we will mount the ponies, and instead of making for
+the fort will try to find the folks."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm wid ye there, as I remarked previously," was the response of the
+brave young rancher, who was ever ready to risk his life for those whom
+he loved.</p>
+
+<p>"It will be an almost hopeless hunt, for father could give me only a
+general idea of the course he meant to take, and we are likely to go
+miles astray."</p>
+
+<p>"We shall have to depind on Providence to hilp us, though it may be the
+folks are in no naad of our assistance."</p>
+
+<p>"I pray that such may be the case," was the fervent response of Warren,
+accompanied by a sigh of misgiving. "I think we shall be able to take
+care of ourselves, but father is in a bad fix with mother and Dot on his
+hands. I hope Plummer has joined them."</p>
+
+<p>"He niver will do the same," remarked Tim gravely.</p>
+
+<p>"Why do you say that?"</p>
+
+<p>"He has been killed by the spalpeens, for if he hadn't, he would have
+showed himsilf before we lift the ranch."</p>
+
+<p>"It looks that way, but you cannot be certain."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish I couldn't, but he must have larned of thim being so near the
+house as soon as mesilf, or very nearly so, and he would have been back
+before me. That he didn't come is proof to my mind that he niver
+will&mdash;ye may depind on the same."</p>
+
+<p>This brief conversation took place while the youths were saddling and
+mounting their horses. They made certain that everything was secure, and
+then, carefully guiding their animals among bowlders to the open
+prairie, paused a moment to decide upon the best course to take.</p>
+
+<p>To the northwest stretched the white plain in gentle undulations, and in
+the clear sunlight, miles away in the horizon, rose the dark line of a
+wooded ridge, similar to the others described, and which are so common
+in that section of the country. They agreed that the best course was to
+head toward it, for it seemed to them that the rancher had probably
+crossed the same at some point, or if he had not already done so, would
+ride in that direction. Possibly, too, the father, despite the wishes he
+had expressed, would suspect such a movement on the part of his son. If
+so, the probability of their meeting was increased.</p>
+
+<p>The air was clear, sharp, and bracing, with the sun shining from an
+unclouded sky. It was a time to stir the blood, and had not the young
+ranchers been oppressed by anxiety for their friends, they would have
+bounded across the plain in the highest possible spirits. The ponies,
+having no such fear, struck into a swinging gallop of their own accord,
+which continued without interruption until more than half the
+intervening distance was passed. All this time the youths were carefully
+scanning the wooded ridge, as it rose more distinctly to view; for they
+could not forget that they were more likely to meet hostiles than
+friends in that section, and approaching it across an open plain, must
+continue conspicuous objects to whatever Sioux were there.</p>
+
+<p>"Tim," said Warren, as they rode easily beside each other, "unless I am
+much mistaken, a fire is burning on the ridge."</p>
+
+<p>"Where?"</p>
+
+<p>"Almost directly ahead, but a little to the left; tell me whether you
+can make it out."</p>
+
+<p>The Irishman shaded his eyes with one hand, for the glare of the sun on
+the snow was almost blinding, and after a moment's scrutiny, said:</p>
+
+<p>"Ye are right; there is a fire up there; not much smoke does the same
+give out, but it is climbing up the clear sky as straight as a mon's
+finger."</p>
+
+<p>"I take it that it means Indians; it seems to me they are all around
+us."</p>
+
+<p>"I agraas wid ye, but s'pose it is a fire that yer fayther has started
+himsilf."</p>
+
+<p>Warren shook his head.</p>
+
+<p>"He would not do so imprudent a thing as that."</p>
+
+<p>"But he moight have in his eye that we'd be looking for something of the
+same."</p>
+
+<p>Still his friend was unconvinced.</p>
+
+<p>"He could not be certain that it would be noted by us, while he must
+have known that it was sure to attract the attention of the Sioux. No;
+I cannot be mistaken."</p>
+
+<p>"Do ye want to pass it by widout finding out its maaning?"</p>
+
+<p>"If it is father who has kindled the blaze, and he is looking for us, he
+will find some way of telling us more plainly&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Do ye obsarve?" asked Tim, in some excitement.</p>
+
+<p>Beyond question the approach of the two young horsemen had produced an
+effect. The faint column of smoke which, until that moment, had climbed
+perpendicularly up the sky, now showed a wavy appearance, vibrating from
+side to side in graceful undulations, as though it were a ribbon swayed
+by human hands. But Warren, instead of accepting this as did his
+companion, regarded it as more indicative of danger. The Sioux that were
+responsible for the ascending vapor were aware of the approach of the
+couple, and were signalling the fact to others whose whereabouts was
+unknown to the whites.</p>
+
+<p>"Do ye moind," said Tim, "that two months since, whin we were hunting
+along the Big Cheyenne and got separated from him and Plummer, he let
+us know where they were in jist that way?"</p>
+
+<p>It was a fact. Precisely the same signal had been used by the parent to
+apprise his son and companion where he and Plummer were, though in that
+instance it was the employ&eacute; who adopted the method.</p>
+
+<p>He was inclined for a few seconds to agree with his companion; but there
+was something in the prominence of the artifice, and the certainty that
+it would be noted by unfriendly eyes, that caused him to dismiss the
+belief. Enough doubt, however, had been injected into his mind to bring
+the desire for further investigation.</p>
+
+<p>"We will ride straight toward it, as though we intended to go to the
+camp or signal fire as it may be, but will turn aside before reaching
+the ridge, so as to avoid the trap that may be set for us. I had an
+experience yesterday afternoon something like that before you joined
+me."</p>
+
+<p>Strange it was that the couple, who, despite their youth, had learned so
+much of border life, forgot to keep watch of the rear, while giving so
+much attention to the front. Singular as it may seem, they had not
+looked behind them for the preceding half hour. The sight of the signal
+fire ahead so absorbed their interest that they neglected this obvious
+precaution; nor did it once occur to them that if the smoke was sent
+into the sky by hostiles, who meant it for the guidance of confederates,
+those same confederates were likely to be to the rear of them.</p>
+
+<p>Such was the fact, and the knowledge came to the friends in the most
+startling manner conceivable, being in the shape of several rifle
+bullets which whistled about their ears. Then, when they glanced
+affrightedly around, they saw fully a dozen Sioux bucks, all well
+mounted, bearing down upon them at full speed.</p>
+
+<p>They had issued from the rocky section behind them, and ridden to this
+perilous position without the youths once dreaming of the fact until, as
+may be said, the hostiles were literally upon them.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<h3>A RUN FOR LIFE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>But one thing could be done: that was to run, and Warren Starr and Tim
+Brophy did it in the highest style of the art. They put their ponies to
+their utmost pace without an instant's delay. The animals, as if
+conscious of their peril, bounded across the snowy plain on a dead run,
+with their riders stretching forward over their necks to escape the
+bullets expected every moment.</p>
+
+<p>It must have been that the Sioux were sure the fugitives would look
+around the next moment, else they would have stolen nearer before
+announcing their presence in such a startling fashion.</p>
+
+<p>The only hope for the young ranchers lay in the speed of their horses,
+since there was no other possible chance against the bucks who were as
+fierce after their lives as so many ravening wolves. The boys shouted to
+their animals, who flew across the plain as though the snow did not
+discommode them in the least. They did not separate, for the instinctive
+resolve thrilled them that they would fall or escape together.</p>
+
+<p>Each was provided with a repeating Winchester, and enough has been told
+to prove they knew how to use the weapons effectively, but the
+opportunity was hardly the present, since to turn and fire while their
+ponies were on the run, offered little chance of success, and was liable
+to interfere with their speed, so important above everything else.</p>
+
+<p>The flight was so sudden that, without thought, they headed toward the
+wooded ridge, where they had seen the suspicious signal fire, but they
+had not gone far before discovering that that would never do. The flight
+must end at the ridge, where they would find themselves at fearful
+disadvantage.</p>
+
+<p>"We must have the open plain or we are lost!" called Warren.</p>
+
+<p>"Ay, ay; I'm wid ye," replied Tim, who pulled sharply on the right rein
+of his animal. At the same moment his friend turned the head of his
+horse to the left, and, before the comrades were aware, they were
+diverging with several rods between them.</p>
+
+<p>Warren was the first to perceive the mistake, and believing he had
+adopted the right line of flight, shouted for his friend to do the same.
+Tim had already noticed the turn and now thundered across the prairie
+toward him. But the devious course, as will be readily seen, threw him
+slightly to the rear, seeing which, Warren drew in his animal to allow
+him to come up.</p>
+
+<p>"None of that!" called the Irishman; "ye've no advantage to throw away!
+Ye can't hilp me by that nonsense."</p>
+
+<p>But Warren gave him no heed. The next minute Tim was almost at his side.</p>
+
+<p>"I belave we're riding faster than the spalpeens," he added, glancing
+for the twentieth time to the rear, where the Sioux were forcing their
+horses to the utmost. They did not fire for some time after the opening
+volley, giving their whole attention to this run for life.</p>
+
+<p>That the capacities of the pursuing ponies varied was quickly apparent.
+Several began dropping to the rear, but more than half maintained their
+places near each other.</p>
+
+<p>It was hard to tell whether they were holding their own or gradually
+drifting back from the fugitives. The one hopeful fact was that as yet
+they were not gaining. Whether they would do so or lose ground must
+quickly appear.</p>
+
+<p>Tim Brophy now performed a deed as reckless as it was daring. He watched
+the rear more than did Warren, and was in the act of drawing up beside
+the latter, when he discovered that one of the Sioux was leading all the
+rest. He was fully a rod in advance, and what was more alarming than
+everything else, he was gaining, beyond question, on the fugitives. His
+horse had developed a burst of speed that no one anticipated.</p>
+
+<p>Rising to the sitting posture in the saddle, Tim brought his gun to his
+shoulder.</p>
+
+<p>"Don't do that!" admonished Warren. "You have no chance to hit him, and
+will cause Billy to lose ground."</p>
+
+<p>The Irishman made no reply; he was too much occupied with the act he had
+in mind. Furthermore, he noted that the buck whom he held in such fear
+was making ready to fire.</p>
+
+<p>But Tim was ahead of him, and, by one of those strange accidents which
+sometimes happen, he hit him so fair and hard that, with the invariable
+cry of his race when mortally hurt, he reeled sideways and fell to the
+ground, his horse, with a snort of alarm, circling off over the prairie
+far from his companions.</p>
+
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus2" id="illus2"></a>
+<img src="images/illus2.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">Tim's fortunate shot.</span></h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>Warren glanced around at the moment the gun was discharged and could
+hardly believe his own eyes. He knew the success was accidental, and
+hoped it would not encourage Tim to repeat the attempt.</p>
+
+<p>It was expected that the shot would serve as a check to the rest, and
+ordinarily it would have done so, but it produced not the slightest
+effect in that direction. Back of the fallen warrior, whose body rolled
+over and over in the snow, as it struck with a rebound, were more than
+half a dozen, with the others streaming after them. They gave no heed to
+their fallen leader, neither uttering any outcry nor firing in return,
+but pressing their ponies to the highest possible point. They were
+resolved upon capturing those fugitives and subjecting them to a
+punishment beside which shooting would be a mercy.</p>
+
+<p>It would not do to forget the country in front. While their chief
+interest lay to the rear, they were liable to run into some peril that
+would undo all the good gained by outrunning their pursuers. Warren saw
+that while they had swerved to the left, yet the course of the ridge
+would carry them to its base, unless they diverged still more from the
+direct path.</p>
+
+<p>And yet this divergence must be made as gradual as circumstances would
+permit, since otherwise great advantage would be given their enemies by
+the chance to "cut across lots," or in other words to follow a straight
+line, while offsetting the curved course of the fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>Directing the attention of Tim to the situation, he begged him to give
+no further thought to firing upon their foes.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll let the spalpeens alone if they'll do the same wid me," was his
+reply, spoken in a low voice, for the two were separated by only a few
+feet.</p>
+
+<p>"You can't have as good luck a second time."</p>
+
+<p>"But," persisted Tim, "if I hadn't dropped that felly, he would have
+tumbled you or mesilf out of the saddle, as he was about to do whin I
+jumped on him wid both feet."</p>
+
+<p>But Warren begged him to desist, confident as he was that any further
+attempt would result in ill to them. Tim held his peace, but leaving his
+friend to watch where they went he gave his chief attention to the
+Sioux, whose leaders, if they were not gaining ground, seemed to be
+holding their own.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly, to Warren's disgust, his companion again brought his gun to
+his shoulder. Before he could aim and fire, however, one of the bucks
+discharged his weapon and the bullet nipped the leg of young Starr, who
+continued leaning forward, so as to offer as little of his body as
+possible for a target.</p>
+
+<p>Tim fired, but more than likely the ball went wide of the mark.</p>
+
+<p>His companion hoped that the act of their pursuers in shooting was
+caused by their fear of losing the fugitives through the speed of their
+ponies.</p>
+
+<p>But a short distance was necessary before the boys were riding in a line
+parallel with the ridge that had loomed up in their path. This gave them
+an open country for an unknown distance, over which to continue their
+flight, but it was hardly to be supposed that it would continue long.
+The section was too broken to warrant such a hope.</p>
+
+<p>It may have been the perception of the fugitives' object that brought
+the shot from the Sioux. At any rate, if it should become manifest that
+the young ranchers were drawing away, the rifles of the pursuers were
+certain to be brought into effective use, and the distance between the
+parties was fearfully brief.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>AWAY WE GO!</h3>
+
+
+<p>One recourse was before the pursuing Sioux from the start: that was to
+shoot the horses of the fugitives. The wonder was that they had not
+aimed to do so from the first. With the couple dismounted, they would be
+at their mercy.</p>
+
+<p>It was the fear of this that caused Warren to ask his friend to draw up
+as near to him as he could. It was not likely that both ponies would
+fall at once, and the survivor might be able to carry the couple to
+safety.</p>
+
+<p>"I tell ye we are gaining," said the Irishman, with far more hope in his
+manner than Warren thought was warranted.</p>
+
+<p>"We must gain a good deal before getting out of the woods," was the
+reply of the other, who devoted every energy to forcing his animal to
+his best pace.</p>
+
+<p>"Look out! they're going to shoot again," said Tim.</p>
+
+<p>Throwing himself forward, Warren hugged his pony closer than ever, his
+companion doing the same, instead of trying to use his gun. The volley
+came while the words were in course of utterance, but neither of the
+youths was touched. The Sioux must have found it equally hard to fire
+with their animals on a full run.</p>
+
+<p>"Why don't the spalpeens save their powder?" was the disgusted question
+of Tim, but his feelings changed a minute later, when his own pony
+showed by his actions that he had been hit hard. He uttered a low,
+moaning cry, and staggered as if about to fall.</p>
+
+<p>Warren was the first to notice it.</p>
+
+<p>"Tim, Billy is going to drop; ride closer and mount Jack behind me."</p>
+
+<p>"Not a bit of it! I'll see you hanged first," was the characteristic
+reply of the brave fellow, who sturdily refused to heed the urgent
+appeal of his friend.</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?"</p>
+
+<p>"Jack can't carry us both."</p>
+
+<p>"He can until we reach the ridge."</p>
+
+<p>"But we're not going toward it," insisted Tim, too observant to be
+deceived.</p>
+
+<p>"Turn Billy's head that way," said Warren, growing desperate in the
+imminence of the peril, and swerving his pony to the right; "Jack can
+carry us both as well as one."</p>
+
+<p>Still the Irishman hesitated. It might be as his companion said, but he
+was unwilling to imperil Warren, and destroy the chances of both, when
+everything looked so favorable for one.</p>
+
+<p>Meanwhile, the stricken Billy was fast giving out. He struggled gamely,
+but it was evident that he must quickly succumb. At the most, he could
+go but a short distance farther.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux fired again, but nothing was accomplished. If Jack was hit, he
+did not show it during the few seconds that his rider held his breath.</p>
+
+<p>Still Tim held back in the face of the pleadings of his friend. Two
+discoveries, however, led him to yield.</p>
+
+<p>They were now heading straight for the ridge, which was barely half a
+mile distant. It must soon be attained, unless something happened to
+Jack. The foremost Sioux had fallen so perceptibly behind that there was
+reason to believe the horse could carry both riders to safety, or rather
+to the refuge which they hoped to find at the base of the ridge.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll do the same, being it's yerself that asks it&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"Quick! Billy is falling!" called Warren, far more excited than his
+companion.</p>
+
+<p>The crisis had come. The poor animal could go no farther, and was
+swaying from side to side like a drunken person, certain to fall with
+the next minute.</p>
+
+<p>Tim released his foot from the stirrup on his right, swung his leg over
+the saddle, as only a skilful horseman can do, and, holding his gun with
+one hand, grasped the outstretched one of Warren and made a slight leap,
+which landed him behind him.</p>
+
+<p>It was a delicate and difficult task, and despite the skill with which
+it was executed, both came within a hair of tumbling headlong to the
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>Quickly as it was done, it was not a moment too soon. The mortally
+wounded Billy suddenly went forward, his nose ploughing up the snow and
+earth, and after a few struggles all was over.</p>
+
+<p>The action had not only increased the danger of both of the fugitives,
+but it rendered the situation of the Irishman doubly perilous. Although
+both leaned forward, they could not do so as effectually as when each
+was on his own horse, and Tim of necessity was the more exposed of the
+two.</p>
+
+<p>Leaving Warren to guide and urge Jack, he gave his attention to the
+Sioux, who did not relax their efforts, but whose relative situations,
+owing to the varying speed of their horses, underwent a curious change
+of position.</p>
+
+<p>Two were riding abreast, and so far as Tim could see there was not the
+least difference in the speed of their ponies. Behind them at a distance
+of several rods came two others, holding precisely the same relative
+positions, while the rest were strung along over the prairie, until it
+looked as if the hindmost was a third of a mile distant.</p>
+
+<p>Nothing was to be feared from them, but what of those that were so much
+nearer?</p>
+
+<p>That was the vital question that must soon be answered.</p>
+
+<p>While the position of the Irishman was anything but pleasant, and with
+the horse on a jump he was required to take the utmost care to maintain
+his seat, he decided to try his gun once more.</p>
+
+<p>This proved harder than he supposed. He could make no use of the saddle
+in which young Starr sat, and when he sought to turn he would have
+fallen, had he not kept one arm about the waist of his friend. And yet,
+in the face of all this, he managed to get his Winchester in position
+with the muzzle toward the leading Sioux.</p>
+
+<p>Anything like aiming the weapon was out of the question, and it would
+have been folly to expect that a second chance shot would favor him.
+Nevertheless, the demonstration accomplished something unexpected. He
+had done execution with one shot, and when the bucks saw the muzzle
+pointing backward, they were scared.</p>
+
+<p>The leaders naturally supposed they were the ones intended to serve as
+targets, and they ducked their heads with such suddenness that the
+Irishman grinned. Not only that, but one of them caused his
+pony&mdash;probably through some inadvertent act on the part of the rider&mdash;to
+swerve from his course, thereby interfering with those immediately in
+the rear.</p>
+
+<p>Even the companion at his side was thrown somewhat out of "plumb," and
+lost a few paces, much to the delight of Tim, who gleefully told Warren
+of what had taken place.</p>
+
+<p>The advantage to the fugitives will be understood when it is remembered
+that they were rapidly drawing near the ridge, now at no great distance
+in front.</p>
+
+<p>True, there was no certainty that it would prove a refuge to them, if
+attained; but it would be more of a shelter than the open prairie,
+where, if driven to bay, there was not the slightest protection against
+the bullets of the Sioux, unless the body of Jack should be used as a
+breastwork.</p>
+
+<p>The confusion of the bucks was only temporary. They needed no one to
+tell them what the aim of the youths was when they changed the line of
+their flight, nor could they fail to see that the ridge would be
+attained quite soon, unless they were checked.</p>
+
+<p>Tim Brophy suspected that such thoughts were passing through their
+minds, and despite the hopelessness of the effort, he discharged his
+rifle toward them; and when it is stated that it was discharged "toward
+them," no more can be said. There is no reason to believe that he came
+within twenty feet of hitting any one of the Sioux.</p>
+
+<p>It may be doubted, therefore, whether this essay on his part was
+beneficial to himself and companion, inasmuch as it must have lowered
+their opinion of his marksmanship and convinced the red men that they
+were altogether mistaken in giving heed to any more shots fired by him
+from the back of the pony, which was not only going at full speed, but
+was carrying a double burden.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>ON FOOT.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The fugitives were now so close to the ridge that Warren Starr, from his
+position on his pony, turned his attention to their immediate front. He
+saw that the race must end, so far as his steed was concerned, within
+the next second. The trees stood close together, the ascent was steep,
+and the bowlders and rocks, plainly discernible, since all leafage was
+gone, showed that the horse must halt of necessity at the moment of
+striking the base of the elevation.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux had ceased firing. They were so certain of capturing the
+youths that they saved their ammunition. The struggle could not last
+much longer.</p>
+
+<p>"Be ready to jump off!" said Warren to his companion; "I am going to
+stop!"</p>
+
+<p>Even as he spoke, he threw Jack on his haunches with a suddenness that
+would have pitched the couple over his head, had they not braced
+themselves. Both took a flying leap from his back and dashed for the
+cover now directly before them.</p>
+
+<p>The purpose was still to keep together, but circumstances beyond their
+control prevented. They had no time to form any plan. Young Starr darted
+to the right, aiming for some rocks which he fancied might afford
+partial shelter. Tim had his eye on a somewhat similar refuge to the
+left, and made for that. He would have joined his friend had he known
+his intention, but the seconds were too precious to allow it, after a
+few steps were taken. So he kept on without once glancing behind him.</p>
+
+<p>Still there was no firing. The Indians must have felt more certain than
+ever of their prey, thus to hold their shots. They emitted several
+whoops of exultation, and the foremost bounded from their ponies and
+sped after the fugitives like so many bloodhounds.</p>
+
+<p>But the separation of the latter compelled a division of the former,
+who, it will be remembered, were scattered at varying distances, only a
+couple being at the heels of the young ranchers. Thus it came about that
+each was pursued by a single warrior, and through a whim which cannot be
+fully understood, the Sioux next to the leaders turned to the left on
+the trail of the young Irishman, who had thus the honor, if it may be so
+considered, of attracting the greater attention.</p>
+
+<p>For a few moments Warren devoted his energies to running. He bounded
+like a hare over the first bowlder that interposed, swerved slightly to
+the right, to pass an obstructing rock, and went up the slope with the
+same headlong speed with which he had dashed from the level ground to
+the bottom of the slope.</p>
+
+<p>It was not until he had sped fully a hundred yards in this furious
+fashion that he ventured to throw a glance over his shoulder. Then he
+learned that there was but a single Sioux in sight.</p>
+
+<p>The fugitive had held his own so well against this miscreant, that the
+latter must have felt a quick fear of his escaping him altogether. Young
+Starr was an unusually swift sprinter, and it may be doubted whether
+the fleet-footed Indian could have run him down in a fair contest.</p>
+
+<p>The fear of losing the young man caused the Sioux to check himself
+abruptly, bring his gun to a level, and let fly.</p>
+
+<p>An extraordinary accident, or rather providence, saved the fugitive. At
+the very instant of his enemy firing, Warren's foot slipped in the snow,
+and he stumbled on his hands and knees. Certain that his fall was due to
+the bullet just sent after him, the Sioux, with a whoop of triumph,
+bounded forward over the bowlders and around the rocks to finish him.</p>
+
+<p>Warren saw, with lightning-like quickness, that his fall might be his
+salvation. It had deceived his foe into the belief that he was either
+killed or mortally hurt, and he was, therefore, unprepared for that
+which followed.</p>
+
+<p>The youth did not attempt to rise. He had slipped down in such a
+position that he was hidden from the sight of his pursuer. He quickly
+shifted around so as to face him, and, rising on one knee, held his
+Winchester pointed and ready for use.</p>
+
+<p>He had not long to wait. The Sioux was so close that the next minute his
+head and shoulders appeared above the rock, as he took his tremendous
+strides toward the lad, whom he expected to see stretched helpless on
+the snowy earth.</p>
+
+<p>The sight of him kneeling on one knee, with his rifle aimed, his eye
+ranging along the barrel, and his finger on the trigger, was the first
+startling apprisal of the real state of affairs.</p>
+
+<p>The warrior instantly perceived his fearful mistake, and made a
+desperate attempt to dodge to one side, but though the loon may elude
+the bullet of the hunter's rifle, no man has ever yet been equal to the
+task. No screeching Indian was ever hit more fairly, surprised more
+suddenly, or extinguished more utterly.</p>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<div class="figcenter">
+<a name="illus3" id="illus3"></a>
+<img src="images/illus3.jpg" alt=""/>
+</div>
+
+<h3><span class="smcap">The death of the Indian.</span></h3>
+
+<hr style="width: 45%;" />
+
+<p>And so it came about that in the twinkling of an eye Warren Starr was
+left without a pursuer. Not a solitary Sioux was in sight.</p>
+
+<p>But he was too wise to think he was safe. He was simply relieved for
+the time being of his harassing foes. They must have heard the discharge
+of his rifle, and some of them would soon investigate when their comrade
+failed to return to them. This would be after a few minutes. Naturally
+they would suppose that the fugitive had been brought down, and not
+until a brief period had elapsed would they suspect the truth.</p>
+
+<p>It was this interval which must be utilized to the utmost, if the youth
+hoped to escape. While the snow would reveal his trail so plainly that
+it could be followed without the least difficulty, yet his own fleetness
+ought to enable him to keep so far in advance of the Sioux that they
+could not gain another shot at him. True, he was deprived of his
+matchless pony, but the red men were also on foot, and therefore they
+stood on equal terms, with the opening in favor of the fugitive.</p>
+
+<p>Warren would have been full of hope and resolution, but for Tim Brophy.
+His concern for his devoted friend forbade him turning the situation
+solely to his own account. He made a hasty examination of his rifle, and
+found nothing the matter with it. It was ready for use whenever needed.</p>
+
+<p>Not a solitary warrior was in sight, and the profound stillness which
+reigned caused the incidents of the last few minutes to seem like some
+wild dream.</p>
+
+<p>With that peculiar doubt that sometimes comes over one in such crises,
+Warren gently pinched one hand with the other. The result convinced him
+that everything was real&mdash;imagination had nothing to do with it.</p>
+
+<p>The reports of his own Winchester and the Sioux's rifle were all that
+had broken the stillness since the headlong leap of the young ranchers
+from the back of the pony. There could have been no other report without
+its being heard by Warren, who was sorely perplexed over the fact.</p>
+
+<p>Could it be that equally good fortune had befallen Tim Brophy? Had he
+been able to throw his pursuers off the track for the time? It seemed
+impossible that two such providences should come simultaneously to the
+fugitives. The Irishman was by no means as fleet of foot as Warren, and
+with the majority of the pursuers dashing after him, only the worst
+result was to be feared.</p>
+
+<p>"Some of them will soon be here," was the conclusion of the youth, as he
+stood sorely perplexed as to what he should do; "if I remain, I shall
+have half a dozen of them around me, and then it will be all up; but
+what about Tim?"</p>
+
+<p>In his chivalrous devotion to his comrade, he now began withdrawing from
+his dangerous position, but trended to the right as he faced his
+enemies, with the object of getting near Tim, and with the hope that he
+might be of help to him in his desperate strait.</p>
+
+<p>He shuddered as he glanced down at the ground and observed the prints he
+made in the snow. There could be no delay in tracing him, no matter what
+direction he might take. It must be the same with his friend, who,
+despite any advantage gained at the beginning of his last flight, could
+be readily run down, if the Sioux preferred that to "winging" him while
+in full flight.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>DOWN!</h3>
+
+
+<p>Meanwhile Tim Brophy found himself in the hottest quarters of his life.</p>
+
+<p>Inspired by the same desperate thought of his friend, he strove, with
+all the energy he possessed, to widen the space between himself and his
+pursuers. Less fleet of foot than they, it took but a few seconds to
+show him the hopelessness of the task.</p>
+
+<p>None of the trees was large enough to give protection to his body, but
+seeing no rocks that could serve him, he dodged behind the first trunk
+that presented itself. This was barely six inches in diameter, and was
+no better than nothing at all.</p>
+
+<p>Pausing but a moment, he leaped away again, with that wild, aimless
+impulse which comes over one when panic-stricken. The halt, brief though
+it was, proved fatal. His pursuer was on his heels, and the brave youth
+turned at bay. As if fate was against him, when he attempted to bring
+his rifle to a level, he made a slip and it dropped from his grasp. He
+had no time to pick it up.</p>
+
+<p>"S'render! s'render!" called his foe in good English, waving his right
+hand aloft with his gun grasped in it.</p>
+
+<p>"I'll surrender, ye spalpeen!"</p>
+
+<p>Resorting like a flash to nature's weapons, the Irishman delivered a
+blow straight from the shoulder, which sent the Sioux spinning backward
+with his feet pointing toward the sky.</p>
+
+<p>Had he been the only foe to contend with, Tim might have saved himself,
+for the savage was utterly "knocked out," and the opportunity to finish
+him could not have been better.</p>
+
+<p>Tim had his revolver, but in his excitement he forgot the important
+fact. He was about to leap upon his prostrate enemy, with the intention
+of snatching his gun from him and using it, when the other two Sioux
+burst to view.</p>
+
+<p>Without waiting for them to assail him, the youth dashed forward like a
+panther at bay.</p>
+
+<p>Before the foremost could elude the assault, he struck him as fairly as
+he had hit the other, and he sprawled on his back, with the breath
+driven from his body.</p>
+
+<p>But the impetus of his blow carried Tim forward, and, half tripping in
+his headlong rush, he fell on his hands and knees. He strove frantically
+to save himself, but, before he could struggle to his feet, the other
+Sioux dealt him a stroke with the butt of his gun which laid the fellow
+helpless on his face.</p>
+
+<p>The skull of the Irishman, however, was tough, and he quickly recovered,
+but not before several other warriors appeared on the scene.</p>
+
+<p>For one moment the young rancher meditated a rush upon them, and had
+actually doubled his fists for that purpose, but even in his fury he
+perceived the folly of such a course. If he assailed the Sioux, they
+would quickly finish him then and there, while the fact of their having
+spared his life thus far proved that they did not intend to put him to
+instant death.</p>
+
+<p>It was with singular emotions that he recognized among the last arrivals
+the Carlisle student Starcus, who had saved his life the preceding
+morning by his timely shot when the grizzly bear was upon him. The
+presence of the "civilized" youth among the hostiles told its own story.</p>
+
+<p>"Ye've got me foul," said Tim, looking straight at Starcus as he spoke;
+"and now ye may do wid me what ye loikes."</p>
+
+<p>Starcus, knowing the words and look were meant for him, made no answer,
+but kept in the background.</p>
+
+<p>He was grim and silent. Who shall say what thoughts were stirring his
+heart at that trying moment! He had sat with this youth at the table of
+George Starr and his family.</p>
+
+<p>He had partaken of their hospitality, and had claimed to possess the
+civilization which he was anxious his own race should adopt, but here he
+was, taking part in the pursuit and attack of two youths who not only
+had never done him harm, but had always acted the part of friends toward
+him.</p>
+
+<p>There was one curious fact (and yet, perhaps it was not so curious after
+all) which was evident to the captured youth. The Sioux admired the
+brave fight he had made for himself. Trained for ages to regard physical
+prowess as above all virtues, the American race cannot fail to revere
+it, even when they are the sufferers therefrom.</p>
+
+<p>The warrior who had first felt the weight of Tim's fist now began
+clambering to his feet. He was dazed and bewildered, for the blow was a
+terrific one. Landing squarely in his face, it had brought considerable
+crimson, which, mingling with the daubs of paint already there, gave him
+a frightful appearance.</p>
+
+<p>He assumed the upright posture, and standing uncertainly for a few
+seconds, fixed his eyes on the prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>Then grasping the situation, and recognizing him as the individual that
+had treated him so harshly, he suddenly emitted a shout, whipped out his
+hunting-knife, and rushed at him like a fury. Tim instantly threw
+himself into a pugilistic attitude, and no doubt would have given a good
+account of himself had he been permitted, for he was skilled in the art
+of self-defence, and such a person always has the advantage over a foe,
+no matter what his weapon, provided it is not a firearm.</p>
+
+<p>But the collision did not take place. Three Indians interposed,
+restraining the fierce red man; among the foremost being Starcus, who
+roughly seized the upraised arm and forced the warrior back several
+steps, using some strong words in his own language. The savage strove to
+free himself that he might attack the youth, but he was not permitted,
+and finally gave up the effort and withdrew sullenly into the
+background.</p>
+
+<p>This incident was hardly over, when the second warrior that had gone
+down before the young Irishman's prowess also gained his feet. He looked
+as if he would very much like to try conclusions again, with the aid of
+one of his weapons, but he seemed to think he could bide his time, and
+have it out on a more fitting occasion.</p>
+
+<p>The captive was too wise to place a favorable construction on the
+interference of Starcus, despite the additional fact of his kindly
+offices of the morning. The rest of the Sioux had shown a wish to take
+him prisoner, for certainly the chance to bring him down had been theirs
+more than once. Actuated by their intense hatred of the white race, they
+looked upon sudden death as too merciful to a foe that had done them so
+much ill. He had slain one of their best men, and knocked prostrate two
+others; no punishment, therefore, was too cruel to be visited upon him.</p>
+
+<p>While the group stood about the helpless captive they talked in their
+own language, without Tim being able to guess the meaning of a word
+uttered. He watched the countenances closely, and was surprised a minute
+or two later by the appearance of the last member of the party. He came
+straggling up as though he felt no concern in the proceedings. That
+which interested Tim the most was the sight of his valued Winchester in
+the fellow's hand. For one moment the youth thought he meant to hand it
+over to him, but that would have been a stretch of hospitality of which
+none of his race could ever be guilty. He did a rare thing for an
+Indian&mdash;indulged in a grin of pleasure at the prize which his
+companions had passed by to allow it to fall into his possession.</p>
+
+<p>In his trying situation, Tim Brophy could not avoid a feeling of
+curiosity concerning Starcus. To him the fellow's conduct was
+inexplicable. While his presence among the Sioux was proof that he was
+"with them" in thought, intention, and feeling, yet there was the
+friendly act of the morning during the struggle with the grizzly, and
+his late interference to prevent the warrior from injuring him, which
+united to puzzle the captive.</p>
+
+<p>As has been said, he was too wise to build much hope on these facts, but
+nevertheless they raised doubts and questions relating wholly to the
+future.</p>
+
+<p>Would Starcus continue to hold his present enmity to the people that had
+been friendly to him?</p>
+
+<p>While he had been carried away by the frenzy that had driven so many of
+his people out of their senses, was not an awakening likely to take
+place, when his better nature would resume control? Could he forget
+that he had eaten salt with this hapless fellow, and stand by, without
+raising hand or voice, when his extremity should come, as come it must,
+in a very brief while?</p>
+
+<p>But these were questions that Tim Brophy could not answer; they must be
+left for the immediate future.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE FRIEND IN NEED.</h3>
+
+
+<p>While these lively scenes were taking place, Warren Starr was not idle.
+The report of his gun was plainly heard by the other Sioux and the
+captive, but the former took it for granted that it was fired by their
+comrade, and calmly awaited his return with the news of the death of the
+fugitive.</p>
+
+<p>But as the reader has learned the boot was on the other leg. The youth
+was unharmed, and his enemy was of no further account.</p>
+
+<p>Actuated by the chivalrous wish to help Tim, he began cautiously picking
+his way along the slope, at a considerable distance from the base,
+peering forward and listening intently for sights and sounds that could
+tell him how his companion had fared.</p>
+
+<p>He had better fortune than he dared expect. The flickering of something
+among the trees warned him that he was in a delicate position, and his
+farther advance was with the utmost care, accompanied by glances on
+every hand, to guard against walking into a trap.</p>
+
+<p>Very soon he reached a point from which he saw all that was going on.
+Tim was standing defiantly among the Sioux, who appeared to be
+discussing the question of what to do with him. He identified Starcus,
+and recognized also the hapless state of affairs.</p>
+
+<p>Much as he regretted the conclusion, Warren Starr was forced, in spite
+of himself, to see that it was out of his power to raise a finger to
+help his friend. For one moment he meditated bringing his Winchester to
+his shoulder and opening fire, but at the best he could not hope to
+bring down more than two or three before the others would be upon him.
+With no possible way of escape open, the situation of Tim would be worse
+than before, for one of the first things done by the Sioux would be to
+slay him on the spot, whereas they were now likely to spare him for a
+time, and so long as he had life, so long did hope remain.</p>
+
+<p>Warren would have been as eager to befriend the brave fellow as the
+latter would have been to aid him; but, as we have said, there was no
+dodging the fact that it was out of his power. What, therefore, should
+he do for himself and the other loved ones for whom all this danger had
+been incurred?</p>
+
+<p>Where were that father, mother, and little sister? They might be in
+equally sore distress, and longer delay on his part perhaps would decide
+the question of life or death.</p>
+
+<p>Stealthily withdrawing again, until well beyond sight of the group, he
+began carefully descending the side of the ridge toward the open
+prairie. In doing so, he avoided doubling on his own trail, for at any
+moment some of the Sioux were liable to start out on a tour of
+investigation, which would bring them face to face with him.</p>
+
+<p>With all his senses on the alert, he threaded his way among the trees
+and around the rocks and bowlders, until he stood on the base of the
+elevation, with the broad plain, across which he and his friend had fled
+in such desperate haste, stretching out before him for many miles.</p>
+
+<p>But another sight interested him. Along the foot of the ridge were
+scattered nearly a dozen Indian ponies, cropping as best they could the
+grass, whose tops faintly showed above the thin coating of snow. Their
+owners had abandoned them in their haste, without thought of securing
+them to any of the limbs, confident that they would be found within
+reach when wanted.</p>
+
+<p>They were tough little animals, without saddle or bridle. The majority
+had a blanket roughly secured over the back, with a thong about the
+upper part of the neck, which was all that was needed to guide them
+wherever their masters willed.</p>
+
+<p>But there was one animal worth all the rest for whom the eyes of the
+youth eagerly searched among the group, scattered at varying distances.
+He would have given anything for a sight of his own Jack at that moment.</p>
+
+<p>To his astonishment, he saw nothing of him. Through some unaccountable
+cause, he had vanished as utterly as if he had never existed.</p>
+
+<p>In the vain hope of discovering him, Warren glanced from one to the
+other, until he had surveyed each one several times over. But there was
+no mistake; Jack was invisible.</p>
+
+<p>The fact caused him keen regret, but it would not do to tarry, with the
+certainty that the Sioux would soon learn the truth and be after him
+like a whirlwind. One or two of their ponies were almost as fleet as
+Jack, and Warren was a good enough horseman to ride them as well as
+their masters could without saddle.</p>
+
+<p>Fixing his attention on the best looking animal, which happened also to
+be the nearest, he moved briskly toward him, with the purpose of
+bounding upon his back and dashing away; but his abruptness defeated his
+intention. It frightened the pony, who with a snort threw up his head,
+trotted several rods out on the prairie, and then turned and looked at
+him.</p>
+
+<p>The alarm of this animal communicated itself to the others, who also
+hurriedly trotted beyond his reach.</p>
+
+<p>The situation was critical. The action of the ponies was almost certain
+to be heard by their owners a short distance off, and they would be
+quickly on the spot. If they caught sight of the youth on foot trying to
+steal one, his position would be far more hopeless than when among the
+rocks and trees.</p>
+
+<p>Seeing his mistake, Warren tried to right matters by a less abrupt
+approach. He dropped to a slow walk, holding out his hand and uttering
+soothing words. Had he done this at the beginning, he would have had no
+trouble in capturing any horse he desired, but the animals identified
+him as a stranger, and continued shy.</p>
+
+<p>The finest, which he had sought first to catch, closely watched him as
+he slowly approached, but at the very moment the heart of the youth was
+beating high with hope, he swung his head around and trotted beyond
+reach. Warren turned his attention to the one that was nearest, and by a
+sudden dash aimed to catch his halter, one end of which was dangling in
+the snow.</p>
+
+<p>As he stooped to grasp the thong, it was whisked from under his hand,
+and the pony galloped beyond his reach.</p>
+
+<p>The bitter disappointment made Warren desperate. He had undertaken an
+impossible task. He might succeed had more time been at his command, but
+the Sioux were liable to appear any minute. It would not do for him to
+be caught in this situation. He must abandon the attempt and get back
+among the trees and rocks, where there remained the bare possibility of
+eluding the red men.</p>
+
+<p>"What the mischief has become of Jack?" he muttered, facing about and
+breaking into a lope for the ridge. "If he were only in sight, he would
+come to me at once. Hello! just what I feared!"</p>
+
+<p>At that juncture he detected something moving among the trees. It was
+not clearly seen, but not doubting that the Sioux were coming, he broke
+into a run for cover, not daring to risk a shot until partial shelter
+was secured.</p>
+
+<p>In his affright he did not dare glance to the left even, and held his
+breath in thrilling expectancy, certain that with every leap he took he
+would be greeted by a volley, or that the Sioux would throw themselves
+across his track to shut off all chance of escape.</p>
+
+<p>That they did not do so was not only unaccountable to him, but gave him
+the hope that possibly he might still elude them. Bending his head, he
+ran with might and main. The distance was not great, but it seemed
+tenfold greater than it was, and a slip of the foot, which came near
+bringing him to his knees, filled his heart with despair and made him
+certain that he would soon join Tim Brophy.</p>
+
+<p>He heard his pursuers at his heels. Despite his own fleetness, they were
+outspeeding him. Nothing could save him from being overtaken before
+reaching the ridge.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly a peculiarity in the sound made by those at his rear caused him
+abruptly to halt and look around.</p>
+
+<p>Then, to his unbounded delight and amazement, he recognized his own
+pony, Jack, striving hard to keep him company.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE PRAIRIE DUEL.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Warren Starr could have hugged his pony in his transport of delight.
+Until a moment before he was sure several of the Sioux were upon him;
+when, wheeling about, he was confronted by Jack, whom he had been
+desirous of meeting above every other person or animal in the world.</p>
+
+<p>The action of the horse he understood. On the sudden flight of his
+master he had attempted to follow him among the rocks and trees of the
+ridge; the Indians, in the flurry of the occasion, paying no attention
+to him. Failing, he was making his way back to the open prairie, when
+the sight of his master sent him galloping after him; Warren being too
+panic-stricken to suspect the truth until he was well-nigh run down by
+the faithful animal.</p>
+
+<p>"Heaven bless you, Jack!" he exclaimed, with glowing face and joyous
+heart; "you are in the nick of time."</p>
+
+<p>Saddle and trappings were unharmed, though the tapering limbs of the
+creature had been scratched and cut by his attempt to follow his master.
+The youth was in the saddle in a twinkling, and, but for the sad
+situation of Tim Brophy, he would have uttered a shout of triumph.</p>
+
+<p>For in truth he felt safe, even though the hostiles were dangerously
+near. Remembering this, he rode farther out from the ridge, and whooped
+and swung his arms at the Indian ponies, who dashed still farther out on
+the plain.</p>
+
+<p>It was inevitable that this tumult should become known to the captors of
+Tim Brophy. Young Starr expected it, and therefore was not surprised
+when he saw the figures of several warriors at the base of the ridge. He
+could not forbear swinging his Winchester over his head and taunting
+them. They replied with several shots, but the distance was too great
+for Warren to feel any alarm. He, too, discharged his gun at the group,
+and acted as if he meant to challenge them to come out and attack him.</p>
+
+<p>If such were his intentions, the challenge was accepted. Several
+warriors ran out on the prairie, calling to their ponies, in order that
+they might mount and take up the pursuit. Their action caused the youth
+no alarm, for the test of speed had already been made, and he feared
+none of the Indian animals.</p>
+
+<p>The latter may have been under good discipline when their masters were
+astride of them, but they showed anything but obedience now that they
+were free from their control. They kept trotting about in circles, and
+avoided the warriors with a persistency that must have been exasperating
+to them.</p>
+
+<p>Only one displayed consideration for his master. He was among the
+fleetest, and after some coy dallying he stood still until the athletic
+Sioux came beside him. He vaulted upon his back, and then accepted the
+seeming challenge of the youth.</p>
+
+<p>The latter had checked his steed at a safe distance on the snowy plain,
+and confronted the Indian party. Looking beyond the warrior nearest him,
+he strove to catch sight of Tim Brophy; but he was too far off, and the
+trees interfered with his vision. Before he could continue the scrutiny
+long, the mounted Sioux demanded his attention.</p>
+
+<p>Prudence would have suggested that now, since young Starr was well
+mounted, he should take no chances, but scurry away at the top of his
+speed, leaving the discomfited warrior to nurse his chagrin over the
+clever trick played upon him.</p>
+
+<p>But the young rancher saw no reason why he should flee from a single
+buck, no better mounted or armed than himself. He had had enough
+experience in the Northwest to understand those people well, and thought
+he knew how to take care of himself. No, he would fight him; and now
+opened a most extraordinary prairie duel between Warren Starr and his
+dusky enemy.</p>
+
+<p>The youth glanced at his Winchester, and saw that it was all right, as
+was the case with his revolver. His saddle was firmly cinched in place,
+Jack was at his best, and what cared he for a single Indian, even though
+he was a warrior that had taken the scalp of more than one unoffending
+pioneer!</p>
+
+<p>Jack stood as motionless as a statue, with his nose toward his enemy. A
+gentle wind blowing across the prairie lifted his luxuriant mane
+slightly from his neck and swung his heavy tail to one side. His head
+was high, and the nostrils seemed to breathe defiance to the dusky foe,
+who approached at a swinging gallop, as though he meant to ride down the
+animal and rider.</p>
+
+<p>But he held no such intention. The Sioux required no one to tell him
+that that stationary figure, sitting so firmly in his saddle, meant to
+fight.</p>
+
+<p>While more than a hundred yards still separated the combatants the Sioux
+horseman wheeled to the right, and, without checking his speed, started
+to describe a long circle around the youth. The latter spoke softly to
+Jack, who slowly turned, so as to keep his head continually pointed
+toward the enemy. Evidently the animal understood the situation, and was
+competent to do his part.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux at the base of the ridge had given over their effort for the
+time to capture their ponies. All their attention was centred on the two
+horsemen out on the prairie.</p>
+
+<p>As yet the Indian made no move to fire. Warren was looking for him to
+throw himself over the side of his animal, and aim from under his neck,
+screening his own body meanwhile from the bullet of the young rancher.
+Instead of doing so, however, he described a complete circle about
+Warren, coming back to his starting point, while Jack continued to move
+around, as if on a pivot, keeping his head always facing his foe.</p>
+
+<p>The warrior was starting on his second round, when, without any
+perceptible movement, he discharged his gun. Warren saw the blue puff of
+smoke, the report sounding dull and far away in the wintry air.</p>
+
+<p>The bullet did not pass nigh enough for him to be aware how close it
+was. It would seem that the Indian ought to have done better, for it was
+noticeable from where Warren sat that in completing his circle he had
+shortened it, and was now several rods nearer than when he set out to
+circumnavigate him.</p>
+
+<p>"It is no more than fair to return the compliment," thought Warren,
+raising his Winchester, taking careful aim, and pulling the trigger.
+Truth compels us to say, however, that his shot went as wide of the mark
+as the one aimed at him. Thus far honors were equal between them.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux continued his trip around the central object, though what he
+expected or hoped to accomplish by this curious proceeding was more than
+his antagonist could conjecture.</p>
+
+<p>The advantage during the performance possibly was with young Starr; for,
+by keeping the nose of Jack pointed toward the other he offered the
+least possible target to the foe, while the course of the Indian
+compelled him to hold his pony broadside, himself remaining a
+conspicuous object on his back.</p>
+
+<p>"I think I can shorten this business," reflected Starr, "by another shot
+or two. I am standing still, and if I can't bring that fellow off his
+horse I'm of little account."</p>
+
+<p>But the Sioux was more watchful than he suspected. Hardly was the
+Winchester raised when, presto! the warrior disappeared. He had flung
+himself far on the other side of his pony, and was capable of
+maintaining that situation while making the circuit of the youth.</p>
+
+<p>The latter held his fire. He was confident of being able to hit the
+other animal, but to his mind that would be taking a dishonorable
+advantage, though none knew better than he that he was dealing with an
+enemy to whom treachery was a cardinal virtue.</p>
+
+<p>The horse showed no decrease of his speed, but continued galloping
+forward with the easy swing shown by the trained circus animal when an
+equestrian is giving an exhibition. That the rider, from his position on
+the other side of his body, with his moccason extended over the spine of
+the animal, was keeping close watch of the youth the latter did not need
+to be told.</p>
+
+<p>He must have seen Warren, after holding his weapon levelled for a
+moment, lower it again, disappointed at the vanishing target. The next
+moment the Sioux discharged his weapon.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2>
+
+<h3>ON THE GROUND.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The aim of the warrior was better than before, and though it was not
+fatal, it came startlingly near being so. The bullet nipped the ear of
+the pony, and cut through the coat of Warren Starr; grazing his shoulder
+in the passage.</p>
+
+<p>There could be no question that the red man was in dead earnest, and
+that when he discharged his rifle he meant to kill.</p>
+
+<p>It must not be supposed there was any holding back on the part of the
+youth; he was equally resolved that, if the chance were given, he would
+do his best to bring his antagonist from the back of his horse.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux resumed his circling course, gradually drawing nearer the
+young man, who continued as alert as at the first; ready to take
+advantage of any opening that presented itself.</p>
+
+<p>Suddenly the red man wheeled his pony in the opposite direction,
+doubling on his own course. This compelled him to swing over to the
+other side in order to continue his use of the animal as a shield. He
+executed the movement with wonderful deftness, but a singular condition
+was against him.</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr had just formed the decision that the best, if indeed not
+the only thing he could do, was to shoot the steed of his foe. This was
+easy, and with the Indian dismounted he would be at a great
+disadvantage, though likely still to use the body of his animal as a
+guard against the marksmanship of his enemy; but the latter counted on
+the flurry giving him his opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>Thus it happened that at the moment the Winchester was at Warren's
+shoulder, and his eye was ranging along the barrel, he caught a glimpse
+of the dusky body in the act of whisking over that of the pony. The
+glimpse was only momentary, but under the peculiar conditions it was
+just what was needed. The youth fired, and with such accuracy that the
+warrior lunged over his steed, and sprawled in the snow on the other
+side.</p>
+
+<p>The released animal threw up his head with a snort, and trotted toward
+the ridge as if he, too, had felt the sting of the bullet and was
+hastening away from a possible repetition.</p>
+
+<p>The sight of the Indian on the ground told the youth of the success of
+his shot, but it did not lead him to do anything rash, as would have
+been natural in the flush of triumph. The Sioux was not yet killed, and
+was still capable of mischief.</p>
+
+<p>Warren rode rapidly a few yards toward him, and then brought Jack to an
+abrupt halt. He had seen something suspicious in the actions of his
+enemy.</p>
+
+<p>"Is he shamming?" was the question he asked himself, as he leaned
+forward, carefully keeping the head and neck of Jack in front of his
+body, and on the alert against a treacherous shot.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux seemed to have fallen on his side, with his face turned partly
+away from the youth. With surprising quickness he shifted his position
+so as to confront the horseman, and still lay prostrate in the snow, as
+if unable to rise.</p>
+
+<p>There might be a sinister meaning to this. The pretence of being
+mortally disabled was an old one with his people, as many a white man
+has learned when too late. If he were trying the artifice in the present
+instance, he did it skilfully.</p>
+
+<p>Under the belief that he was powerless to inflict further harm, nothing
+was more natural than that the youth should ride forward with the
+purpose of giving him his quietus, disregarding his own safety until a
+bullet through the body should apprise him of his fatal oversight. It
+was this fear that checked Warren in the very nick of time.</p>
+
+<p>The one great obstacle in the way of the Sioux successfully playing this
+ruse was that he was in open view, where no movement on his part could
+be concealed. Were it in the wood, with rocks and trees at his command,
+the chances would have been far better for him.</p>
+
+<p>Warren Starr kept his eye fixed on him. It would have been easy, while
+seated on his own pony, to drive a ball through the miscreant, who was
+fully exposed to his fire, but it might be after all that he was badly
+wounded and unable to defend himself. If such were the case he could not
+commit the cruelty of firing at him again, even though the Sioux would
+have eagerly seized such a chance against a foe.</p>
+
+<p>It was for the purpose of learning the truth in the matter that Warren
+watched him with the utmost closeness, holding his own weapon ready to
+use the instant the other made a hostile demonstration.</p>
+
+<p>The action or rather inaction of the other Sioux at the base of the
+ridge was suggestive, and increased the suspicion of the young rancher.
+They were in a direct line with the one on the ground, so that Warren
+readily saw them without withdrawing his attention from his immediate
+antagonist.</p>
+
+<p>Instead of rushing out to the help of the latter they remained where
+they were, and continued the role of spectators. This looked as if they
+did not believe the fellow was in need of assistance, and they were
+simply waiting with confidence in the result of the piece of treacherous
+cunning.</p>
+
+<p>The warrior with his left hand drew his rifle round to the front. The
+weapon was a magazine one like Warren's, and it was one, therefore, of
+which it would not do to lose sight.</p>
+
+<p>The gun being in position for use, the owner, apparently with
+difficulty, raised the upper part of his body, so that it was supported
+on the left elbow. Then he essayed to call the right hand into play, but
+appeared to find a difficulty in doing so.</p>
+
+<p>Up to this moment Warren Starr had been trying to learn in what manner
+the fellow was wounded. The motion of his lower limbs showed no
+weakness, though it might have been there without appearing, so long as
+he held his prone position and did not call them into use.</p>
+
+<p>The action now indicated that his right arm was the one that had
+suffered, since it fumbled awkwardly and refused to give the needed help
+when called upon.</p>
+
+<p>Still all this might be pretence, intended to deceive the youth into
+uncovering himself. Warren did not lose sight of that probability.</p>
+
+<p>The action of the Sioux was precisely what it would have been had he,
+knowing that he was confronted by a merciless enemy, done his utmost,
+while badly wounded in the right arm, to bring his weapon to bear upon
+him. There was no hesitation or trouble with the left arm, but it was
+the other which, from appearances, refused to answer the call upon it.</p>
+
+<p>It was seen to move aimlessly about, but still was unable to help in
+aiming, and the hand could not manipulate the trigger&mdash;an impotence
+which, if actual, was fatal.</p>
+
+<p>But who can trust an Indian? Knowing that his slightest action could not
+escape the keen eyes of the youthful horseman a short distance away, was
+he not likely to direct every movement with the purpose of deceiving
+him?</p>
+
+<p>The truth must show itself soon; but be it what it might, Warren Starr
+had the comforting belief that he was master of the situation. He was
+unharmed, with his ready Winchester in such position that he could use
+it like a flash. As yet the Sioux had not brought himself to the point
+of aiming, and Warren was watching him so closely that he could
+anticipate his firing. He was resolved that the instant he attempted to
+shoot he would let fly, and end the singular prairie duel.</p>
+
+<p>It has taken considerable time to make all this clear, but the incidents
+from the fall of the Sioux to the close occupied but a few minutes.</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr spoke in a low voice to his pony, who began moving slowly
+toward the prostrate Indian, the rider holding his weapon ready as
+before. Jack took short and very deliberate steps, for he did not like
+the appearance of things. A man lying on the ground is always a
+disquieting object to a horse, and this one had already felt the sting
+of the Indian's anger when the bullet clipped a tiny speck out of his
+ear. Warren Starr was resolved to learn the truth, and he did so before
+Jack had advanced a dozen steps.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2>
+
+<h3>A GOOD SAMARITAN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The young rancher was yet some distance from the prostrate foe, when his
+quick eye discovered something. It was a crimson stain on the snow near
+the stock of the Indian's rifle.</p>
+
+<p>The miscreant was wounded; he was not shamming.</p>
+
+<p>It was remarkable that with this discovery came an utter revulsion of
+feeling on the part of the youth. While he had been ready up to that
+moment to drive his bullet through the bronzed skull, an emotion of pity
+now took possession of him. He forgot that the fellow had tried with
+desperate endeavor to take his life, and he knew he expected no mercy at
+his hands. Nevertheless, as a Christian, he could not withhold his
+sympathy, nor could he forget that simple but sublime role of the good
+Samaritan.</p>
+
+<p>Touching his heels against the ribs of Jack, the pony increased his
+pace, but had not yet reached the prostrate figure when Warren
+experienced the greatest surprise of all.</p>
+
+<p>The Indian on the ground was Starcus!</p>
+
+<p>The next moment young Starr dropped from his saddle, and was bending
+over him.</p>
+
+<p>"I hardly expected this, Starcus," he said, with a gentle reproof in his
+voice. "You seem to have changed your mind since this morning, when you
+shot the grizzly."</p>
+
+<p>Indian though he was the fellow's painted face was darkened by an
+expression of deep pain, whether the result of his hurt or of his mental
+disquietude no one can say.</p>
+
+<p>"I am not your friend; I am the enemy of all white men."</p>
+
+<p>"You have proven that since you turned against those who would do you no
+harm. But I have no wish to reproach you; your arm is badly hurt; let me
+give you what help I can."</p>
+
+<p>"I want no help," replied the Sioux, resolutely compressing his thin
+lips; "go away and leave me alone."</p>
+
+<p>"I shall not; I am your master, and shall do as I please with you."</p>
+
+<p>"I tell you to leave me alone; I do not want your help," added Starcus
+fiercely.</p>
+
+<p>"You shan't hinder me, old fellow; this is for old times."</p>
+
+<p>And paying no heed to the sufferer, who struggled with pitiful
+awkwardness to keep him off, Starr ripped a piece from the lining of his
+coat, and began bandaging the bleeding arm. The Sioux still resisted,
+but while doing so showed a weakness rare in one of his race by fainting
+dead away.</p>
+
+<p>The youth made no effort to revive him until he had completed his hasty
+but rude swathing of the arm, which was badly shattered by a bullet.
+Then he flung some snow in the face of the fellow, who had already shown
+signs of coming to.</p>
+
+<p>Starcus looked around for a moment in a bewildered way, and then fixed
+his gaze on the wounded member, now bound so that the flow of blood was
+stopped. Then he turned his dark eyes on the face of the youth bending
+over him, with an indescribable expression, and said in a low voice:</p>
+
+<p>"I tried my best to kill you, Warren."</p>
+
+<p>"But you didn't; and I am unharmed, and am your friend."</p>
+
+<p>"And why are you my friend? I do not deserve it," continued the Sioux,
+with his black eyes still centred on the face of the athletic youth.</p>
+
+<p>"If you and I had what we deserved where would we be? Give it no further
+thought."</p>
+
+<p>Starcus now held his peace for a full minute, during which he never once
+removed his gaze from the countenance of the good Samaritan. Strange
+thoughts must have passed through his brain. When he spoke it was in a
+voice as gentle as a girl's.</p>
+
+<p>"Can you forgive me for what I have done?"</p>
+
+<p>"With my whole heart."</p>
+
+<p>"But I tried my best to kill you."</p>
+
+<p>"Are you sorry?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes, sorry as I can be."</p>
+
+<p>"Then I repeat, I forgive you; but are you able to rise to your feet?"</p>
+
+<p>"Yes; I pretended I was not, so as to bring you closer to me. Had not my
+arm been hurt I would have shot you."</p>
+
+<p>"I am not sure of that," replied Warren, with a curious smile; "I
+suspected it, and was on my guard. At the first move on your part I
+would have fired. I was not sure even that you were hurt at all until I
+saw blood on the snow. But it will not do for you to stay here. Let me
+help you to your feet."</p>
+
+<p>Starcus proved that the rest of his limbs were uninjured by coming as
+nimbly as an acrobat to an upright posture.</p>
+
+<p>"You have done all you can for me, and I thank you; now do not wait any
+longer."</p>
+
+<p>"Why not?" asked Warren, suspecting his meaning, but desirous of testing
+him a little further.</p>
+
+<p>"Look toward the ridge," was the significant reply.</p>
+
+<p>The inaction of the other Sioux, as has been intimated, was due to their
+belief that Starcus was master of the situation. Even when they saw him
+pitch from the back of his pony they must have thought it a part of the
+strategy designed to lure the young man to his death.</p>
+
+<p>But the sight of the youth bending over the prostrate figure of their
+comrade told the truth. Starcus had been wounded, and was at the mercy
+of his conqueror.</p>
+
+<p>Much as the warriors were disappointed, they were not the ones to allow
+the brave fellow to be killed without an effort on their part to save
+him.</p>
+
+<p>Warren had suspected the truth, and, while seeming to be unaware of it,
+he observed several of the warriors running at full speed from the ridge
+out on the snowy prairie. They were still a goodly distance away, and he
+calculated just how far it was prudent to allow them to approach before
+appealing to Jack, standing within a few paces and awaiting his
+pleasure.</p>
+
+<p>He was hoping for just such a warning from Starcus as he had received.
+He wanted it as a "guarantee of good faith," and when it came all doubts
+of the sincerity of his repentance were gone.</p>
+
+<p>Still, although this particular Sioux might feel gratitude for the
+undeserved mercy shown to him, there was no hope of anything of that
+nature from his companions. Had Warren counted upon that, he would have
+made the mistake of his life. He and his friend had done the bucks too
+much ill to be forgiven for an act of kindness to one of their number,
+even though it was actuated by a motive whose nobility they could not
+fail to understand.</p>
+
+<p>"That is kind of you, to warn me of my danger," remarked the youth. "I
+shall not forget it. But they are so far off that I need not hurry to
+mount my horse."</p>
+
+<p>"Do not wait too long; they will soon be here."</p>
+
+<p>"I have my pony, and they are on foot."</p>
+
+<p>"But they can run fast."</p>
+
+<p>"I will leave in time; but, Starcus, if you are really a friend of mine,
+you have the chance to prove it by being a friend of Tim; he is a
+prisoner with your people, and in need of your good offices."</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot help him," was the reply, accompanied by a shake of the head.</p>
+
+<p>"I only ask that you shall do what you can; I am sure you will, whether
+it results in good to him or not."</p>
+
+<p>"Give yourself no hope of that; it will be hard for me to explain why I
+was spared by you."</p>
+
+<p>"But that was my own affair; surely they cannot suspect us of any
+collusion."</p>
+
+<p>"You do not know my people as I do."</p>
+
+<p>"But I am not the first white man that has shown mercy to a helpless
+foe; they know that as well as you and I."</p>
+
+<p>"You are waiting too long, Warren; they will soon be here," added the
+warrior, with an apprehensive glance toward the ridge, from which his
+people were approaching with alarming swiftness.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, good-by, Starcus."</p>
+
+<p>He grasped the left hand of the Sioux, who warmly returned the pressure
+with the words, "Good-by, Warren."</p>
+
+<p>Then Warren Starr, not a moment too soon, sprang into the saddle and
+galloped away.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII"></a>CHAPTER XXVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE LONE HORSEMAN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The young rancher had calculated matters closely, for hardly was he in
+the saddle when the foremost of the running Sioux halted, raised his
+gun, and fired. He was nigh enough to make his shot dangerous, though
+providentially it did no ill.</p>
+
+<p>It was an inviting chance for Warren to return the fire with the best
+prospect of doing so effectively. But he had no disposition to slay any
+one of the hostiles. His singular experience with Starcus had a
+softening effect, and he was resolved to attempt no injury against the
+men unless compelled to do it in actual self-defence.</p>
+
+<p>Jack, being put to his best paces, quickly carried him beyond any
+further peril, and when far enough to feel safe he checked the pony and
+looked back.</p>
+
+<p>He saw half a dozen Sioux gathered around the wounded Starcus,
+evidently in conversation. Being strong in his lower limbs, and with his
+wounded arm bandaged as well as it could be, he required no attention or
+help from them. After all, knowing the buck had been a close friend of
+the young rancher, they must have seen nothing remarkable in the mercy
+that had been shown to him. White men are as capable of meanness and
+cruelty as the Indians, but few of them disregard the laws of honorable
+warfare, and still fewer are deaf to the cry of a hapless foe.</p>
+
+<p>A few minutes later the group moved slowly back in the direction of the
+ridge. A couple, however, drew off, and began a more systematic hunt of
+the ponies that had shown such a fondness for their freedom. They
+managed matters with such skill that they soon coaxed a couple of the
+fleetest back to captivity. With the aid of these they soon corralled
+the others, and the party gathered with their animals at the base of the
+ridge.</p>
+
+<p>Warren Starr remained at a safe distance for the greater part of an
+hour, in the hope of learning something of the intentions of the Sioux.
+But they gave no sign that he could understand. The ponies were in plain
+sight near the trees, and he caught glimpses of their owners moving back
+and forth, but nothing could be learned as to what it all meant.</p>
+
+<p>He now debated what he should next do. He was free, well mounted, and at
+liberty to follow his own judgment.</p>
+
+<p>His immediate anxiety was concerning Tim Brophy. He knew he was in the
+most perilous strait of his life; Warren's parents might be as badly
+situated, but he had no knowledge of the fact. He therefore hoped for
+the best concerning them. But if there was any way of helping his friend
+it was beyond his power to discover it. He was a prisoner in the hands
+of a dozen watchful and treacherous Sioux, who were not likely to give
+him the least chance of escape, and any attempt on the part of Warren to
+befriend him would not only be utterly useless, but would imperil his
+own life.</p>
+
+<p>He had appealed to Starcus to make the effort, but Warren saw the force
+of the Indian's declaration that it was beyond his power. He was
+wounded himself, and at the first move to interfere in behalf of the
+captive, who had killed one of their best warriors and badly bruised a
+couple, would be likely to bring down their vengeance upon his own head.
+Distressing as was the conclusion, there was no escaping it&mdash;he must
+turn his back on his devoted comrade. Warren accepted the situation like
+a martyr, and had decided to continue his search for his folks, of whose
+whereabouts he had only the vaguest idea.</p>
+
+<p>Two lines of action presented themselves, and there was much to be said
+in favor of and against both. By sharp riding he could reach Fort Meade
+before sunset, and there whatever help he might need would be cheerfully
+given by the commandant. Under the guidance of the friendly Indian
+scouts, they could search for the rancher and his family; and their
+knowledge of the people, as well as the country, would render such
+search far more effective than any by the youth, without taking into
+account the force that would insure safety instantly on such discovery.</p>
+
+<p>But this plan involved considerable time, with the certainty that his
+folks must spend another night in imminent peril&mdash;a night that he could
+not help believing was to prove the decisive one.</p>
+
+<p>Knowing nothing of the death of Jared Plummer, Warren hoped that he was
+with his father, despite the gloomy prophecy of Tim Brophy. If the young
+rancher could join them, the party would be considerable, and ought to
+hold its own against any band of Indians such as were roaming through
+the country. Besides, all would be well mounted and prepared for flight
+whenever advisable.</p>
+
+<p>These and other considerations, which it is not necessary to name,
+decided the youth to make further search for his folks before riding to
+Fort Meade.</p>
+
+<p>One fact caused him no little speculation. It will be remembered that
+the approach of himself and Tim to the ridge was caused by the discovery
+of a thin column of smoke climbing into the sky from a more elevated
+portion than that attained by themselves or the Sioux with whom they had
+had the stirring encounter.</p>
+
+<p>He did not forget, either, that the red men with whom they had exchanged
+shots, and from whom he had escaped by the narrowest chance conceivable,
+appeared from the opposite direction. Neither then, nor at any time
+since, had anything occurred to explain the meaning of the vapor that
+had arrested their attention when miles away.</p>
+
+<p>If it had been kindled by Sioux or brother hostiles, why had they not
+appeared and taken a hand in the lively proceedings? Abundant time was
+given, and if they were there they ought to have met the fugitives at
+the close of their desperate chase, when they sprang from the back of
+Jack and dashed among the trees on foot.</p>
+
+<p>It was these questions which caused the youth to suspect that the fire
+might have been started by his father. True, he had expressed a
+disbelief in this view when given by Tim, but that was before the later
+phase had dawned upon him.</p>
+
+<p>It looked like a rash act on the part of the rancher, if he had
+performed it, but there might be excuse for his appealing to the signal
+that he had employed in a former instance to apprise his son of his
+location.</p>
+
+<p>Speculation and guessing, however, could go on forever without result.
+There was but one way of learning the truth, and that was to investigate
+for himself.</p>
+
+<p>Prudence demanded that the Sioux at the base of the ridge should be
+given no inkling of his intention; and, in order to prevent it, a long
+detour was necessary to take him out of their field of vision.</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly he turned so as to follow a course parallel to the ridge,
+and breaking into a swift canter kept it up until, when he turned in the
+saddle and looked back, not the first sign of the hostiles was visible.</p>
+
+<p>He was now miles distant, too far to return on foot, even had he felt
+inclined to abandon Jack and try it alone. He rode close to the base of
+the ridge, whose curving course was favorable, and facing about started
+back toward the point he had left after his survey of the party that
+held Tim Brophy a prisoner.</p>
+
+<p>He did not believe there was any special danger in this, for he had only
+to maintain a sharp lookout to detect the Sioux, if they happened to be
+journeying in that direction. The broad stretch of open plain gave him
+every chance he could ask to turn the fleetness of Jack to the best
+account: and he feared no pursuit that could be made, where he was
+granted anything like a chance.</p>
+
+<p>His purpose was to approach as near the spot as was prudent, provided
+they remained where he last saw them, and then, dismounting, penetrate
+nigh enough to learn the meaning of the smoke which was such an
+interesting fact to him. The task was a difficult one, for it was more
+than probable that by the time he reached the neighborhood of the signal
+fire it would be extinguished; for certainly his father would not
+continue the display after it had failed in its purpose, and the
+appearance of the hostiles showed him that it was liable to do more harm
+than good.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX"></a>CHAPTER XXIX.</h2>
+
+<h3>A BREAK FOR FREEDOM.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Accustomed as are the Sioux to scenes of violence, it is not probable
+that any members of the party to whom we have been referring ever looked
+upon a sight so remarkable as the prairie duel between Starcus and the
+young rancher.</p>
+
+<p>This Indian, who had come among his native people in the hope of staying
+the tide of frenzy sweeping through the tribe, was himself carried away
+by the craze, and from a peaceable, well-educated youth became among the
+most violent of those that arrayed themselves against the white man.</p>
+
+<p>It was one of the better impulses of his nature that led him to fire the
+shot when Tim Brophy was in such danger from the grizzly bear; but, as
+he afterward confessed, it was no sooner done than he reproached himself
+for not having turned his weapon against the two youths for whom he had
+once entertained a strong friendship.</p>
+
+<p>When the headlong Irishman started toward him, Starcus hurried away, and
+not only joined a band of prowling hostiles, but told them of the lads,
+and joined in a scheme to capture and hold them as hostages for several
+turbulent Sioux then in the hands of the Government authorities. Knowing
+them as well as he did, he formed the plan of stealing up behind them,
+while they were riding across the snowy prairie, and the partial success
+of the plan has been shown.</p>
+
+<p>His comrades watched the opening and progress of the strange duel with
+no misgiving as to the results. They saw how a run of wonderful fortune
+had helped the young rancher, but now, when something like equality
+existed between the combatants, the superiority of the American over the
+Caucasian race must manifest itself.</p>
+
+<p>As events progressed the interest of the spectators deepened. They
+descended to the edge of the plain, where the view was unobstructed,
+leaving but a solitary warrior guarding the prisoner. The solicitude of
+the latter for his friend was as intense as it could be, for he could
+not be sure of the result until the end. He feared that Warren Starr was
+committing the same rashness for which he had often chided him.</p>
+
+<p>The view from the rocks through the intervening trees was so imperfect
+that it grew to be exasperating, but there seemed to be no help for it.</p>
+
+<p>The warrior in charge of Tim Brophy was expected to give his full
+attention to him, but as events progressed there was danger of his
+forgetting this duty. He began to look more to the singular contest than
+to his captive.</p>
+
+<p>This Indian was standing on his feet, leaning forward, and peering as
+best he could between the trees and the obstructing limbs. Tim was
+seated on a bowlder at his side, and until this moment was the target of
+a pair of eyes that would have detected the slightest movement on his
+part.</p>
+
+<p>The Irishman was quick to observe that by the strange trend of events a
+golden opportunity had or was about to come to him. The warrior seemed
+to forget him entirely, though, like all his people, he would be
+recalled with lightning quickness on hearing or seeing anything amiss.</p>
+
+<p>Surely no such chance could come again. Convinced of this, Tim seized it
+with the rush of a hurricane.</p>
+
+<p>Rising quickly and noiselessly to his feet he delivered a blow as quick
+as a flash under the ear of the Sioux, which stretched him like a dead
+man on his face.</p>
+
+<p>There had been no noise, and in the excitement of the occasion the
+Indians at the base of the ridge were not likely to learn what had taken
+place until the revival of the senseless warrior, who was not likely to
+become of any account for several minutes.</p>
+
+<p>Tim needed no urging to improve his opportunity. Facing the top of the
+ridge, he started off with a single desire of getting over the rough
+ground as fast as possible.</p>
+
+<p>He had taken but a few steps, however, when he abruptly stopped.</p>
+
+<p>"Begorra!" he muttered, "but what a forgitful spalpeen is Tim Brophy!"</p>
+
+<p>He had no rifle. That would never do, when pursuit was inevitable in a
+short time. Accordingly, he turned about, ran to the prostrate figure,
+and took the gun from his grasp. It was not as good as his own, but
+inasmuch as that was in the possession of one of the others it was
+beyond recovery.</p>
+
+<p>It seemed cruel, but to make matters safe the Irishman gave the
+prostrate fellow a second vigorous blow, from which he was certain not
+to recover for a considerable while.</p>
+
+<p>"I hate to hit a man whin he is down," he reflected. "If I meets him
+ag'in I'll ax his pardon."</p>
+
+<p>It was no time to indulge in sentiment, and he was off once more.</p>
+
+<p>Some strange fate directed his steps, without his noticing the fact,
+along the trail made by Warren Starr in his first hurried flight. Thus
+it was that he came upon the other warrior that had been outwitted by
+the youth whom he was so confident of capturing.</p>
+
+<p>Urgent as was his hurry, the fugitive paused a moment to contemplate the
+sight. Then with a sigh he hurried forward, for not a moment was to be
+lost.</p>
+
+<p>It was remarkable that, after having captured the young man with so much
+difficulty, they should have invited him to escape, as they virtually
+did by their action, but the circumstances themselves were exceptional.
+The like could not happen again.</p>
+
+<p>It was the same curious turn of events that extended his opportunity. It
+is rare, indeed, that, after a captive does make a break for freedom, he
+is allowed such a period in which to secure it; but here again the
+unparalleled series of incidents favored him.</p>
+
+<p>There had been no outcry on the part of the third victim to Tim Brophy's
+good right arm. But for the forgetfulness of the youth in starting off
+without his gun, the fellow would have recovered speedily and made an
+outcry that must have brought several of his confederates to the spot.</p>
+
+<p>But events were interesting beyond compare out on the prairie. All the
+Sioux but the one named were watching them, and when they saw the plight
+of Starcus there was a general rush to his assistance. The return was
+slow, being retarded by the efforts of several to capture their
+wandering ponies. When they succeeded in doing this and coming back to
+the edge of the plains, the better part of half an hour had passed.</p>
+
+<p>The first startling recollection that came to the party after this
+return was the fact that the warrior who had pursued the young rancher
+up the side of the ridge had not put in an appearance. They would have
+awakened to this fact long before but for the affair between Warren
+Starr and Starcus. Now that it was impressed upon them, and they
+recalled the report of the gun that reached them long ago, together with
+the reappearance of the young rancher on the back of his pony, they
+could not fail to see the suspicious aspect of things.</p>
+
+<p>There was a hasty consultation at the base of the ridge, and then the
+man who was really the leader ordered a couple of his warriors to lose
+no time in learning the truth. As eager as he to investigate, they set
+out without delay, but had not gone far when one of them uttered a cry
+which brought the whole party to the spot.</p>
+
+<p>A striking scene greeted them. The white prisoner was gone, and the
+Indian left in charge lay on his face like one dead. His gun was
+missing. Strange proceedings had taken place during the absence of the
+party.</p>
+
+<p>It took but a few minutes to learn the truth. It was easy to see that
+the interest of the guard in the incidents on the plain had caused him
+to forget his duty for the time. The Irishman had suddenly assailed him
+with that terrible right arm of his, and felled him senseless to the
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>The recipient of this attention was not dead, but he felt as though he
+wished he was, when he was helped to a sitting position, and was
+compelled not only to suffer the pain of the terrific blows received,
+but had to face the jeering looks of his companions, who could forgive
+anything sooner than the outwitting of a full-grown warrior by a trick
+which ought not to have deceived a child.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX"></a>CHAPTER XXX.</h2>
+
+<h3>COMRADES AGAIN.</h3>
+
+
+<p>Actuated by his resolution to learn the real meaning of the signal fire
+seen on the crest of the ridge, Warren Starr pushed on in the face of
+the fact that every rod in the way of advance increased his own peril.
+Studying the contour of the country, and carefully making his
+calculations, he was able to tell when he drew near the scene of his
+stirring encounter with the war party of Sioux. Deeming it unsafe to
+ride farther, he drew his pony aside, and, dismounting, led him among
+the rocks and trees, until he was beyond sight of anyone passing over
+the open country. He did not forget that a plain trail was left, which
+would serve as an unerring guide to those hostiles who might come upon
+it, but that was one of the risks of the undertaking which could not be
+avoided.</p>
+
+<p>"Now, Jack, my boy, I want you to stay right here till I come back
+again," he said, in parting from the animal. "You have been faithful and
+have served me well, and I can depend upon you, for you are sure to do
+the best you can."</p>
+
+<p>There could be no doubt on that point, and without any more delay he
+left the creature and began toiling up the ascent, his Winchester firmly
+in his grasp, and as alert as ever for the sudden appearance of his
+enemies.</p>
+
+<p>An astounding surprise was at hand.</p>
+
+<p>He had penetrated but a short distance from his starting point when he
+became aware that someone else was in the vicinity. He caught only a
+flitting glimpse of a person, who, descrying him at the same instant,
+whisked behind a bowlder for protection. Warren was equally prompt, and
+the two dodged out of each other's sight in a twinkling.</p>
+
+<p>"If there is only one Indian," reflected the young rancher, "I ought to
+be able to take care of myself&mdash;great Heavens!"</p>
+
+<p>The exclamation was caused by the sight of Tim Brophy, who stepped from
+behind the shelter and walked toward him.</p>
+
+<p>Young Starr was astounded, and believed for a minute that his friend had
+been put forward as a decoy, and that his captors were immediately
+behind him. But that dread was removed the next moment by the appearance
+of the young Irishman, who, advancing jauntily, called out in his cheery
+voice:</p>
+
+<p>"It's all roight, me boy! None of the spalpeens are here, and it's
+mesilf that would like to shake ye by the hand."</p>
+
+<p>That the two warmly grasped hands and greeted each other need not be
+stated. Even then Warren could only murmur:</p>
+
+<p>"Why, Tim, this is the greatest surprise of my life! Where in the name
+of the seven wonders did you come from? and how came you to give them
+the slip?"</p>
+
+<p>"It was that which helped me out," replied the other, holding up his
+clenched fist; "it b'ats all other wippons whin ye git into a tight
+corner."</p>
+
+<p>Not until the fellow had told his story could the other comprehend the
+amazing truth. Then he saw how a marvellous combination of
+circumstances had helped him, and how cleverly the quick-witted youth
+had turned them to account.</p>
+
+<p>"I must shake hands with you again," responded the delighted Warren. "I
+never knew of anything more remarkable."</p>
+
+<p>"Ye didn't think ye could give me any hilp," chuckled Tim, "but ye did
+it all the same."</p>
+
+<p>"How?"</p>
+
+<p>"Haven't I told ye that the little circus ye opened out on the plain
+drew away all the spalpeens but the single one lift to look after me?
+And don't ye understand that ye made things so interesting that he
+forgot me until I reminded him I was there by giving him a welt under
+the ear that he won't forgit in a dog's age?"</p>
+
+<p>"I see; but I never dreamed of any such result as that."</p>
+
+<p>"Nor did I, but it came all the same, and sarved me as will as if ye had
+fixed up the whole business."</p>
+
+<p>Noticing the strange weapon in his hand Warren referred to it, and then
+received the whole story.</p>
+
+<p>"Well, it beats anything I ever heard of. Jack isn't far off, and we can
+use him as we did before."</p>
+
+<p>"And may I ask what ye are doing here so close to the spalpeens, whin ye
+ought to be miles away?"</p>
+
+<p>"I set out to learn whether that fire whose smoke we saw was started by
+father or not. I didn't think so when you and I were talking it over,
+but can't rid myself of the suspicion till I find out for myself."</p>
+
+<p>Tim nodded his head, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Yis; it was Mr. Starr that did it."</p>
+
+<p>"How can you know that?"</p>
+
+<p>"I've been there, and found out," was the surprising reply.</p>
+
+<p>"Where are he and mother now?"</p>
+
+<p>"Can't say; I'm looking for them. Whin I give the spalpeens the slip I
+did the best travelling I knew how, and without thinking of anything but
+getting away as quick as I could I coom right onto the spot where the
+fire had been burning. It hadn't gone out yit, but it was so nearly so
+that it give no smoke. Looking around it did not take me long to l'arn
+that two horses had been there&mdash;&mdash;"</p>
+
+<p>"They had three with them, as you told me."</p>
+
+<p>"But they have only two now. I wouldn't have been sartin of the matter
+if I hadn't seen the print of yer mother's small shoe in the snow, and
+while I was looking I obsarved that of Dot, no bigger than Cinderella
+hersilf might have made."</p>
+
+<p>Warren was profoundly interested, and tears dimmed his eyes.</p>
+
+<p>"Was there no man with father?"</p>
+
+<p>"I couldn't see any footprints except his."</p>
+
+<p>"Then it has been as you said: Plummer was killed by the Sioux. But
+surely you noticed the direction they took?"</p>
+
+<p>"I did that same, and was following their trail whin I cotched sight of
+yersilf among the trees, and coom nigh shooting ye before asking for an
+inthrodooction."</p>
+
+<p>"Then they have passed nigh this spot?" asked the startled son.</p>
+
+<p>Tim partly turned and pointed behind him.</p>
+
+<p>"Right beyant is the thracks made by thimsilves and their animals, for
+the ground won't admit of their riding."</p>
+
+<p>"I wish it were otherwise," remarked Warren thoughtfully, "for I have
+had the hope that they might be so near the fort as to be safe. They are
+not, but we ought to join them quite soon. But, Tim," added his friend,
+as if alarmed by a new fear, "the Sioux must have learned of your flight
+long ago, and are now on your trail."</p>
+
+<p>"I must say that I'm forced to agree wid ye," was the reply of the
+Irishman, spoken as though the question was of trifling import.</p>
+
+<p>"It won't do for us to stay here. They are liable to appear at any
+moment," and the alarmed youth glanced apprehensively around, as if he
+expected to see the whole party of hostiles burst through upon them.</p>
+
+<p>"Jack is strong enough to carry us a long way," he added, "and since he
+is close at hand I can lead him out on the open plain, where we shall
+gain such a good start that there will be little chance of their
+overtaking us."</p>
+
+<p>"No doubt ye are corrict."</p>
+
+<p>"Then let's do it without throwing away another moment."</p>
+
+<p>He turned hurriedly to carry out his own purpose, when his comrade laid
+his hand on his arm and detained him.</p>
+
+<p>"I think, Warry," he said, in a low voice, "that ye've forgot one
+matter&mdash;yer fayther, mither, and Dot."</p>
+
+<p>"Gracious! how came I to do that? Here I set out to hunt for them, and
+when they were as good as found I turn my back upon them, and think only
+of my own safety."</p>
+
+<p>"Ye are excoosable, since ye have been upsit by the thrifling
+occurrences that have been going on this day."</p>
+
+<p>"Take me to the spot where you left their trail," added Warren, with
+unusual excitement, "and we'll never leave it until we join them; we
+shall escape or die together."</p>
+
+<p>The youths moved like those who knew that the question of life and death
+must be settled within a few minutes.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXI" id="CHAPTER_XXXI"></a>CHAPTER XXXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE LAST HOPE.</h3>
+
+
+<p>The young ranchers had to go but a short distance, when they struck the
+trail left by their friends. The snow rendered it so distinct that the
+first glance told the story. Warren saw the track made by the feet of
+his father, mother, and little Dot. The consciousness that he was so
+near them profoundly affected the son.</p>
+
+<p>"There are several strange things about this," he remarked to Tim,
+halting for a minute before taking up the search in earnest; "we found
+it almost impossible for a horse to clamber up the ridge, and yet their
+two ponies have been to the very crest."</p>
+
+<p>"That's because they found an easy way to do it from the ither side,"
+was the sensible comment of Tim Brophy.</p>
+
+<p>"Of course, but father is away off the track. More than half a day has
+passed since he left home, and he is hardly a quarter of the way to
+Fort Meade."</p>
+
+<p>"He is just as near as we are, and he didn't start any sooner," was the
+significant remark of Tim Brophy.</p>
+
+<p>"But that was his destination when he set out, while our business has
+been to find him."</p>
+
+<p>"With no moon or stars to guide him last night, what means had he of
+keeping to the right coorse?"</p>
+
+<p>The question gave its own answer. The cause of this wandering was so
+self-evident that Warren Starr would not have asked it had he not been
+in such a state of mental agitation as a person feels when certain he is
+on the eve of some critical event.</p>
+
+<p>Reasoning with something like his usual coolness, the young rancher
+thought he saw the explanation of other matters which had puzzled him,
+but he bestowed little thought upon them, for his whole ambition for the
+time was to reach his parents.</p>
+
+<p>The trail which they were following led toward the open prairie, left by
+Warren but a short time before. It was evident that Mr. Starr was
+making for that, for their animals could not serve them so long as they
+continued in this rough section.</p>
+
+<p>"If I had been a little later," reflected the son, "I would have met
+them. That I did not proves that they cannot be far off."</p>
+
+<p>He was tempted to call or whistle, but that would have been rash, for if
+there was any one point on which he was certain, it was that the
+hostiles were hot on the trail of Tim Brophy. The real peril was from
+that direction, and several times he reminded the Irishman of the fact,
+though he needed not the warnings.</p>
+
+<p>A short distance farther and both stopped with an exclamation of dismay.
+The report of a weapon sounded from a point only a little way ahead.</p>
+
+<p>"That was not a rifle," said Warren, turning his white face on his
+companion; "it was a pistol."</p>
+
+<p>"Ye are corrict."</p>
+
+<p>"And it was fired by father."</p>
+
+<p>"I'm sure ye are right."</p>
+
+<p>"They have been attacked! come on! They need our help!"</p>
+
+<p>The youth dashed ahead, clambering over bowlders, darting around rocks,
+ducking his head to avoid the limbs, stumbling, but instantly regaining
+his feet, only intent on getting forward with the utmost possible speed.</p>
+
+<p>His companion found it hard work to keep up with him, but fortunately
+they had not far to run. Without the least warning of what was coming
+Warren Starr burst upon his astonished parents and little Dot, the rush
+being so impetuous that the rancher had his Winchester half raised to
+fire before he understood.</p>
+
+<p>At the feet of Mr. Starr lay the mare dead, killed by her master. While
+struggling over the rugged places she had slipped and broken her leg.
+The rancher mercifully put her out of her misery by placing the muzzle
+of his revolver to her forehead and sending a bullet through her brain.</p>
+
+<p>Mrs. Starr and Dot had turned away that they might not witness the
+painful sight, for they loved the creature. The arrival of the youths
+caused the mother to face quickly about, and the next moment she and
+her son were clasped in each other's arms, with Dot tugging at the coat
+of her big brother.</p>
+
+<p>"Warren, Warren, I guess you forgot me," she pleaded, when she thought
+the embrace had lasted long enough.</p>
+
+<p>"Forget you, my darling!" he repeated, catching her up and hugging the
+breath from her body; "never! we are together again, and only death
+shall separate us."</p>
+
+<p>The rancher had shaken the hand of Tim Brophy during this little
+by-play, and they exchanged a few words before father and son closed
+palms.</p>
+
+<p>Then the questions and answers came fast. Tim Brophy drew a little aside
+to where mother and child stood, and holding the tiny hand of Dot
+explained matters, while Warren did the same with his father.</p>
+
+<p>"Did you see us approaching when you started the fire?" asked Warren,
+after hurriedly telling his own story.</p>
+
+<p>"No, but I was quite sure, when your mother and I came to talk it over,
+that you would disregard my wishes about hurrying to the fort. We went
+astray in the darkness, and after a number of narrow escapes, as I have
+just related, found ourselves at the base of this ridge on the other
+side."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you recognize where you were?"</p>
+
+<p>"No; the points of the compass were all askew, and to save my life I
+couldn't get my bearings. But I was convinced that you were at no great
+distance, and decided to try the signal which Plummer and I had used
+before. Poor Plummer!"</p>
+
+<p>"Do you know anything about him?"</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Starr related what he had discovered, adding that the body was
+shockingly mutilated and stripped of its belongings.</p>
+
+<p>"The ascent of the ridge on the other side was quite easy, and we found
+no difficulty in leading the horses to the crest. There the fire was
+kindled. Knowing of the long stretch of level ground on this side, we
+set out without waiting to learn the result of the signal smoke. I knew
+that if you made your way to the spot where it was burning you would
+understand the situation, and the snow would show you how to follow us
+as fast as you desired."</p>
+
+<p>"Did you hear or see nothing of the Indians?"</p>
+
+<p>"We saw nothing of them, and were confident that the party with whom we
+had repeated encounters were thrown so far behind that we had good
+reason to believe they need be feared no longer. But all our hopes were
+scattered when we heard firing from the direction of the open plain.
+While fleeing from one party of hostiles we had almost run into another.
+I confess," added the father, "that for a minute I was in despair. Your
+mother, however, retained her courage, as she has from the first. She
+urged me to make for the level country, aiming for a point so far
+removed from the sounds of the guns that we would not be seen, unless
+some ill fortune overtook us. My haste in striving to do so caused the
+mare to fall and break her leg. I could not bear the sight of her
+suffering, and though I knew the danger of the act, I put her out of her
+misery with a pistol-ball through her brain."</p>
+
+<p>"You little dreamed that Tim and I had a part in the firing of those
+guns which so alarmed you."</p>
+
+<p>"No; it did not occur to me; but we must not make the mistake of
+supposing we are yet out of danger."</p>
+
+<p>The experiences that had been hastily exchanged awakened the ranchers to
+the fact that they were still in imminent peril, for the Sioux were
+certain to follow Tim Brophy vigorously, and at that moment could not be
+far off.</p>
+
+<p>Mr. Starr beckoned to his wife and Tim to approach.</p>
+
+<p>"You understand matters," he said, "and the question is, what is best to
+do?"</p>
+
+<p>"Why not continue our flight?" asked the wife.</p>
+
+<p>"I would not hesitate a second were we not so fearfully handicapped.
+There are four of us, not counting Dot, and we have but two animals,
+provided Warren's pony can be found, which I very much doubt. True, we
+men can walk or take turns in riding, but if we continue our flight,
+speed is indispensable, and we would make a sorry show in our crippled
+condition. We would be absolutely helpless on the open prairie against
+the Sioux, all of whom, Warren tells me, have excellent horses."</p>
+
+<p>The rancher had a scheme in his mind, but before making it known he
+wished the views of the others.</p>
+
+<p>"It's mesilf that thinks this," said Tim Brophy; "let us go wid yees to
+the ridge of the prairie, and there mount Mr. Starr on Jack, while Mrs.
+Starr and Dot can take the ither. Thin, what is to hinder yees from
+going like a house afire for the foort?"</p>
+
+<p>"But what of you and Warren?" was the natural question of the rancher.</p>
+
+<p>"We'll cover yer retr'at."</p>
+
+<p>"The proposal does more credit to your heart than your head, but I
+cannot entertain it."</p>
+
+<p>"Nor will I listen to anything which compels us to separate again,"
+added the son decisively. "I do not believe you can reach Fort Meade
+without another fight, and the absence of Tim and me would destroy hope
+from the first."</p>
+
+<p>"But my idea," persisted the Irishman, "was to keep the fight away from
+the folks and have all the fun oursilves."</p>
+
+<p>"That would do if it were possible to arrange the business that way,"
+said Warren, "but the Sioux are the ones who have the decision in their
+hands, and while we were doing our best others would slip off and attack
+father and mother. If we remain together it must be otherwise. If there
+ever was a situation where union is strength this is one of them."</p>
+
+<p>"I've exhausted me resoorces," said Tim, withdrawing a step, as though
+he had nothing more to say. Leaving the others to decide, he took
+Warren's Winchester from his unresisting hand, and began watching for
+the approach of the Sioux, who he was certain were following the trail
+through the snow.</p>
+
+<p>One fact was apparent to him, and he considered it no unimportant
+advantage. The pursuers would advance at a speed that must bring them
+into sight before they could surprise the fugitives.</p>
+
+<p>A glance around showed that the rancher could not have selected a
+better place for defence. The bowlders were on all sides, there being a
+natural amphitheatre several rods in extent. Kneeling behind these the
+whites had a secure protection against their enemies, unless they should
+make an overwhelming rush&mdash;a course of action which is never popular
+with the American Indian, inasmuch as it involves much personal risk to
+the assailants.</p>
+
+<p>It was at his suggestion that the others seated themselves on the ground
+while holding their conference. When the Sioux should appear it would be
+on the trail made by the party, so that the Irishman knew where to look
+for them. He, too, crouched down, with the muzzle of the Winchester
+pointed between two of the bowlders, ready to fire on the first glimpse
+of a target.</p>
+
+<p>Even the pony was forced to lie down near the lifeless body of his
+comrade. So it was that anyone might have passed near the irregular
+circle of bowlders without a suspicion of who were within it.</p>
+
+<p>"I have but the one proposition to make," said Warren, seeing that his
+father was waiting for him to speak, "and that is to stay here and fight
+it out. We are strong enough to hold the Sioux at bay for a good while,
+perhaps long enough to discourage them."</p>
+
+<p>"And what have you to say, Molly?"</p>
+
+<p>"I cannot feel as hopeful as Warren, but it really seems to me that that
+is the only recourse left to us."</p>
+
+<p>"I do not agree with either of you," remarked the rancher, feeling that
+the time had come to announce his decision. "I formed my plan some
+minutes ago. It is the only one that offers the slightest hope, and I
+shall insist on its fulfilment to the letter. It is that Warren shall
+leave at once, find his pony if he can, mount him, and ride with all
+haste to the fort for assistance. Tim will stay behind with us to help
+fight. The time for discussion is past; we must act. Warren, make ready
+to leave this minute."</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXII" id="CHAPTER_XXXII"></a>CHAPTER XXXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AWAY! AWAY!</h3>
+
+
+<p>When George Starr announced his decision to any member of his family no
+one presumed to question it. Had the son been disposed to do so in this
+instance he would have refrained, for he believed, with his parent, that
+he had made known their last and only hope.</p>
+
+<p>"I will go, father!"</p>
+
+<p>He was in the act of rising to his feet, when Tim Brophy discharged his
+rifle.</p>
+
+<p>"I plugged him," was his comment, as he peered through between the
+bowlders; "the spalpeen wasn't ixpicting the same, but that one won't
+bother us any more."</p>
+
+<p>Being in the act of rising at this moment, Warren shrank back again,
+undecided for the moment what to do, but hesitation was fatal, as his
+father saw.</p>
+
+<p>"Go," he said; "don't lose an instant; they are not on that side; you
+can slip off without being seen."</p>
+
+<p>The youth saw the force of the words. Crouching as low as possible, with
+the Sioux rifle in his hand, he passed between the bowlders opposite to
+the point at which Tim had fired, and which, therefore, was in the
+direction of the open prairie.</p>
+
+<p>The move was one of those in which success depends wholly upon
+promptness. The Sioux would speedily dispose themselves so as to prevent
+anyone leaving, as soon as they found that the parties whom they were
+seeking were at bay among the bowlders. Fortunate, therefore, was it
+that no delay took place in the flight of young Starr, even though, when
+he started, the enemy was at the gate.</p>
+
+<p>It required no very skilful woodcraft for him to get away, since it was
+not anticipated by the Sioux, and he had the best means for concealing
+himself.</p>
+
+<p>There had been one idea in the mind of the rancher, which he would have
+carried out but for the sudden appearance of the Indians; that was for
+his son to take the remaining pony with him. The fugitives could make no
+use of him, and should it prove that Jack was gone, his owner would not
+be without the means of pushing to Fort Meade for help. Circumstances,
+however, prevented that precaution. It never would have done to attempt
+to take the remaining pony. Warren quickly vanished among the trees and
+bowlders, and the Rubicon was crossed.</p>
+
+<p>But Jack was found just where he had been left, patiently awaiting the
+return of his master. The pursuit of Tim Brophy by the Sioux had led
+them in a different direction, though, had the flight of Warren been
+postponed for a short time, the steed must have fallen into the hands of
+the enemy.</p>
+
+<p>The heart of the youth gave a bound of delight when he came upon the
+animal.</p>
+
+<p>"Follow me, Jack," he said cheerily; "if you ever did your best, now is
+the time. The lives of us all depend upon you. Have a care, my boy, or
+you will slip."</p>
+
+<p>In his eagerness the youth descended the slope faster than was prudent.
+Jack did slip, but quickly recovered himself, and no harm seemed to
+have been done.</p>
+
+<p>It was but a short way to the edge of the prairie, where the pause was
+long enough to see that the trappings were right, when the young rancher
+swung himself into the saddle, twitched the rein, and said:</p>
+
+<p>"Come!"</p>
+
+<p>The gallant fellow, with a sniff of delight, sprang away, and sped with
+a swiftness which few of his kind could surpass. The snowy plain
+stretched in front, and he darted over it as though his hoofs scorned
+the earth. The still air became a gale, which whistled about the ears of
+the youth, who felt the thrill that comes to one when coursing on the
+back of a noble horse to whom the rapid flight is as pleasant as to the
+rider.</p>
+
+<p>It was now near meridian. A long distance remained to be passed, and
+since a goodly portion of it was rough and precipitous, the young
+rancher felt little hope of reaching Fort Meade before nightfall.</p>
+
+<p>"If we could have such travelling as this," he reflected, "we would be
+there in a few hours, but there are places where you will have to walk,
+and others where it will be hard work to travel at all."</p>
+
+<p>It was a discomforting thought, but it was the fact; since the youth was
+not following the regular trail leading from the ranch to the fort at
+the foot of the Black Hills. But his familiarity with the country and
+the daylight ensured him against going astray; he was certain to do the
+best possible thing under the circumstances.</p>
+
+<p>Two miles had been passed at this brilliant pace, and Warren was as
+hopeful as ever, when he became aware of an alarming truth, and one
+which caused a feeling of consternation&mdash;Jack was falling lame. That
+slip made in descending the lower part of the ridge, just before his
+owner mounted him, was more serious than he had suspected. It had
+injured the ankle of the horse so that, despite the gallantry with which
+he struggled, it not only troubled him, but with every leap he made over
+the plain it grew worse.</p>
+
+<p>It was a condition of things enough to cause consternation on the part
+of the rider, for it put an end to his hope of reaching the fort that
+day. True, he could continue the advance on foot, but, doing his utmost,
+he could not arrive before late at night&mdash;so late, indeed, that no help
+would be sent out before the morning, and they could not reach the
+beleaguered fugitives until late on the following day.</p>
+
+<p>"Can they hold out until then?"</p>
+
+<p>That was the question which was ever in the young rancher's mind and
+which he dare not answer as he believed the probabilities required.</p>
+
+<p>There was no getting away from the fearful truth. The vigilance of his
+father and Tim might enable them to stand off the Sioux as long as
+daylight lasted. Each had an excellent magazine rifle, for it will be
+remembered that he had exchanged weapons with his young friend, but
+there was not only a formidable party of bucks surrounding them,
+shutting off all possibility of their slipping off during the darkness,
+but other Sioux were in the neighborhood who could be readily summoned
+to the spot.</p>
+
+<p>Darkness is the favorite time with the red men when moving against an
+enemy, and they would probably make no determined demonstration until
+the night was well advanced. Then, when they should rush over the
+bowlders, nothing could save the fugitives. Should this emergency arise,
+Warren Starr felt that everything was lost, and he was right.</p>
+
+<p>He weakly hoped that Jack would recover from his lameness, but all know
+how vain is such an expectation. The injury rapidly grew worse, so that
+when the animal dropped his gait to a trot and then to a walk, Warren
+had not the heart to urge him farther.</p>
+
+<p>Slipping from the saddle he examined the hurt. It was near the fetlock
+of the left hind leg. The skin was abraded; the ankle evidently had been
+wrenched. It was swollen, and when the youth passed his hand gently over
+it, the start and shrinking of the creature showed that it was
+excessively painful to him.</p>
+
+<p>"It's no use, Jack," said the lad; "I know you would give your life for
+me, but you can't travel on three legs, and I'm not going to make you
+suffer when it can do us no good."</p>
+
+<p>Manifestly there was but one course open&mdash;that was to abandon the pony
+and press on as fast as he could on foot. Jack could get along for a day
+or two, and his master would not forget to look after him on the first
+opportunity.</p>
+
+<p>There was no call to burden himself with the saddle and bridle, but they
+would prove an incumbrance to the animal if left upon him, and his owner
+was too considerate to commit the oversight.</p>
+
+<p>In riding so fast the young rancher had followed the general course of
+the ridge, so that on halting he was quite near it. He now turned to his
+right, calling upon Jack to follow.</p>
+
+<p>The action of the pony was pitiful. When he bore a part of his weight on
+the limb, after the brief halt, it had become so painful as to be almost
+useless. Nevertheless he hobbled forward until the foot of the slope was
+reached.</p>
+
+<p>Here Warren removed the trappings. His blanket being rolled behind the
+saddle, he spread it over the back of the horse and secured it in
+place.</p>
+
+<p>"It is all I can do for you, Jack," he said tenderly, "and it will give
+you protection against the cold. You will be able to find a few blades
+of grass here and there where the snow has not covered them, and the
+buds of the trees will give some help. The snow will prevent your
+suffering much from want of water. Perhaps a good long rest will improve
+your ankle so that you can use it. If it does," and here the young
+rancher spoke impressively, as though he expected his steed to
+understand his words, "I want you to start for the fort; don't forget
+that!"</p>
+
+<p>He touched his lips to the forehead of his faithful ally, who looked
+after his young master, as he walked away, with an expression almost
+human in its affection. But there was no help for it, and with a sad
+heart, but the determination to do his utmost, Warren Starr resumed his
+journey toward Fort Meade.</p>
+
+<p>Not long after parting with his pony he came upon something which caused
+him surprise. In the snow directly in front appeared the footprints of a
+single horse that had passed over the ground on a run, taking the same
+direction that the youth was following.</p>
+
+<p>His experience with horses told the youth at a first glance that the
+animal was travelling at his utmost speed. The trail swerved inward from
+the open plain, as though the rider had sought the base of the ridge for
+his protection.</p>
+
+<p>Had there been several ponies coursing ahead of him, he would not have
+found it so hard to understand matters, for he would have concluded that
+they were an independent party, making all haste to reach some point,
+but he could not read the meaning of a single warrior speeding in this
+fashion.</p>
+
+<p>"Whoever he was he lost no time," mused Warren, breaking into a loping
+trot, for his own haste was great.</p>
+
+<p>Had he not known that poor Jared Plummer was no longer among the living,
+he would have thought it possible that he was making for Fort Meade. He
+wondered whether it could not be a white man engaged on a similar
+errand.</p>
+
+<p>The probabilities were against this supposition. He knew of no rancher
+in the neighborhood of his old home, and it would seem that no white man
+would ride with such desperation unless pursued by a relentless enemy,
+and he saw no evidence of such a contest of speed.</p>
+
+<p>True, the pursuers might have been farther out on the prairie, but their
+trail would have joined that of the fugitive ere long, so as to make the
+line more direct; but though the young rancher trotted a full half mile
+before checking himself and looking around, he discovered no signs of
+others.</p>
+
+<p>The last advance of Warren brought him close to the precipitous section
+which, knowing well, he had feared would prove too difficult for his
+pony. Raising his eyes to survey it and fix upon the best line to
+follow, he caught sight of the horseman he had been following.</p>
+
+<p>His animal was on a deliberate walk, and coming directly toward him. The
+youth stopped short. As he did so he perceived that he was an Indian
+warrior. Warren brought his rifle round in front, with no intention of
+running from him or taking advantage of the cover near at hand.</p>
+
+<p>The Indian raised his hand, and oscillated it as a signal of comity. As
+he did so the two were so near that the youth perceived that the arm was
+bandaged. Something familiar in the appearance of the horseman struck
+him at the same moment, and the young rancher lowered his weapon with
+the exclamation:</p>
+
+<p>"Starcus!"</p>
+
+<p>It was he, and as he rode forward he had a strange story to tell Warren
+Starr.</p>
+
+
+
+<hr style="width: 65%;" />
+<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXXIII"></a>CHAPTER XXXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>BREAD CAST UPON THE WATERS.</h3>
+
+
+<p>When the Sioux who had rushed out on the open plain to the help of the
+wounded Starcus gathered around him they were quick to perceive that his
+life was due to the mercy of his conqueror, but their hostility toward
+the latter was not diminished one whit by the discovery; they were as
+eager for his life as ever, and proved it by firing several shots after
+him as he rode away.</p>
+
+<p>The wounded arm was bandaged in a piece of the lining of Warren Starr's
+coat. The crimson stain showed through the cloth, though the flow of
+blood was checked. Sound and unhurt as was Starcus in all other
+respects, he was unable to use the injured limb, and was therefore as
+useless in any impending hostilities as if out of existence.</p>
+
+<p>As the party moved back toward the base of the ridge there was a
+consultation among them as to what was best to do. Starcus expressed a
+more venomous rancor than ever against the white people, and especially
+against the one that had brought him low. He regretted that he was to be
+helpless for weeks to come, with a permanent injury for life.</p>
+
+<p>When the leader of the band suggested that he should return to the
+nearest village and remain until able to take the warpath again, he
+vehemently opposed it. He was not willing to retire in such a
+humiliating manner, but the leader insisted, and after sulking a while
+the "civilized" Indian consented.</p>
+
+<p>Being a capital horseman, he leaped unassisted upon his pony, and
+unwilling in his anger so much as to bid the warriors good-by, he struck
+the animal into a swift gallop, heading toward the village, where he was
+expected to stay until fully recovered.</p>
+
+<p>The action of the warrior was singular. After riding some distance he
+glanced behind him at the ridge he had left. He seemed to be in an
+irritable mood, for he uttered an impatient exclamation and urged his
+beast to a faster gait. His wound pained him, but the agitation of his
+mind and his own stoical nature caused him to pay no heed to it. Indeed
+nothing more could be done for the hurt.</p>
+
+<p>When he looked back the second time he had reached a point for which he
+had been making since his departure. He was out of sight of any of his
+people who might be watching him.</p>
+
+<p>An abrupt change in the course of his pony was instantly made, and he
+sent him flying at the height of his speed. Strange as it may seem, he
+was aiming for the same point toward which Warren Starr started some
+time later.</p>
+
+<p>He did not spare his animal. He went like a whirlwind, and as though his
+life depended upon reaching his destination without delay. Warren Starr
+read the trail aright when he interpreted it as meaning that the pony
+before him was going as fast as he could.</p>
+
+<p>Starcus was picking his way, still mounted, over the rough section where
+the youth had expected to meet great difficulty with his animal, when
+he suddenly discovered that white people were immediately in his front.
+He drew up, and was in doubt for a minute whether to flee or hold his
+ground.</p>
+
+<p>A squad of cavalry from Fort Meade confronted him. They numbered nearly
+twenty, under the command of a young lieutenant, a recent graduate of
+West Point. They were accompanied by a couple of Indian scouts familiar
+with the country.</p>
+
+<p>Starcus was quick to make a signal of friendship, and then rode forward
+to meet the soldiers, who had halted upon seeing him.</p>
+
+<p>The Sioux was well known to the two Indians, the officer, and several of
+the cavalry. They knew he had joined the hostiles, and were therefore
+suspicious of him. This fact rendered his self-imposed task one of
+considerable difficulty. But after a while he convinced them of his
+honesty.</p>
+
+<p>The lieutenant had been sent out by the commandant at Fort Meade to
+bring in the rancher and his family, their scouts having reported them
+in imminent danger. Starcus explained that the parties for whom they
+were looking were at no great distance, having left the ranch the night
+before to hasten to the fort. One of the ranchmen had been killed, and
+the rest were in great peril. Starcus said he had started to ride to the
+fort for help, and it was most fortunate that he encountered it so near,
+when the passing moments were beyond importance.</p>
+
+<p>The young officer was sagacious. He could have asked some very
+embarrassing questions relating to the wound of the messenger, but he
+wisely forbore. It is not best at all times to let a person know how
+much is plain to you and how much you suspect. Evidently Starcus was
+earnest in his desire to befriend the imperilled ones; the fact that he
+was journeying alone in the direction of the fort constituting the
+strongest evidence.</p>
+
+<p>He explained that the ridge where he believed the whites were doing
+their best to escape the Sioux was much more approachable from the other
+side. He described the ground minutely, and the two scouts present
+confirmed the accuracy of his statements.</p>
+
+<p>When the lieutenant proposed that Starcus should act as their guide the
+truth could no longer be kept back. He made a clean breast of
+everything.</p>
+
+<p>He had been with the hostiles. He was among the fiercest. He had tried
+to shoot young Starr, who, more fortunate than he, brought him wounded
+from his horse. When he lay on the ground, at his mercy, the young man
+rode up, spoke words of kindness, and bandaged his wound.</p>
+
+<p>And in doing this the youth proved more of a conqueror than he had done
+by his excellent marksmanship. He won the heart of the Indian, who was
+now eager to prove his gratitude by any act in his power. He
+unhesitatingly answered that he would serve as the guide to the cavalry.</p>
+
+<p>But once again the officer displayed rare tact. If Starcus was sincere
+in his newly awakened friendship for the whites, it might be in his
+power to accomplish a great deal of good by going among his people and
+using persuasion and argument; but if he should appear as an active ally
+of the whites such power would be gone, and it would be unsafe at any
+time in the future to trust himself among them.</p>
+
+<p>"No," replied the lieutenant; "return to your own people; do what you
+can to show them the mistake they are making in taking the warpath; you
+may effect much good. My guides will do as well as you to direct us to
+the spot where the whites are in urgent need of our help. You say it is
+not far, and I am hopeful that we shall be in time to save them."</p>
+
+<p>Accordingly Starcus parted from the cavalry, and was on his return to
+join his people and to attempt to carry out the wise suggestion of the
+officer, when he encountered the young rancher making all haste on foot
+to secure the help which was much nearer than he had dared to hope.</p>
+
+<p>After exchanging friendly greetings, Starcus told the story which the
+reader has just learned.</p>
+
+<p>Warren listened with amazement and delight. He had, indeed, heaped coals
+of fire upon his enemy's head by his forbearance, and the bread cast
+upon the waters had returned before many days.</p>
+
+<p>"You have acted nobly," was the comment of the youth.</p>
+
+<p>"Can it undo the harm of the last few days?" asked the Indian, with a
+troubled expression.</p>
+
+<p>"Far more, for I am sure the timely news given to the lieutenant will
+save my people."</p>
+
+<p>"And yet I was their enemy."</p>
+
+<p>"And are now their friend. You lost your head in the frenzy that is
+spreading like a prairie fire among your people; your footsteps were
+guided by Providence, otherwise you would have missed the cavalry; they
+would have ridden to the ranch, and my folks would have been left as
+much without their help as though the soldiers had stayed at the fort.
+Besides," added the young rancher, "you can do as the officer
+suggested&mdash;show your own people the right course for them to follow."</p>
+
+<p>"I will try," replied Starcus firmly; "I cannot understand how it was my
+senses forsook me, but they have come back, and," he said, with a
+meaning smile, "I think they will stay."</p>
+
+<p>"I am sure of that, and you will do much good."</p>
+
+<p>"Well, good-by," said Starcus, reaching down his unwounded arm. "I hope
+we shall meet again under pleasanter conditions."</p>
+
+<p>Warren warmly pressed the hand and stood for a minute gazing after the
+strange fellow, who rode toward the nearest Indian village with the
+determination to carry out his new intentions.</p>
+
+<p>It may as well be said that he honestly did so, and there is little
+doubt that his work was effective in more than one respect, and did much
+to ameliorate many phases of the sad incidents that speedily followed.</p>
+
+<p>Left alone once more, the young rancher stood for some minutes in doubt
+as to his right course. It was idle to push on to the fort on foot, and
+he was at much disadvantage, now that he had no animal at command. He
+decided to follow the cavalry.</p>
+
+<p>He had forgotten to ask Starcus how far off they were, but judged the
+distance was not great. The trail of the Indian's horse gave him the
+necessary guidance, and he broke once more into his loping trot,
+despite the rough nature of the ground.</p>
+
+<p>A half-hour sufficed to take him to the scene of meeting, when he turned
+and began following the footprints of the horses at a faster gait than
+before.</p>
+
+<p>Inasmuch as he was now a goodly number of miles from the bowlders where
+his friends were at bay before the attacking Sioux, he hardly expected
+to reach the place in time to take a hand in the decisive scenes or even
+to witness them. Starcus had left such accurate directions, and the
+Indian guides were so familiar with everything, that little delay was
+probable.</p>
+
+<p>The distant sound of firing spurred him to still greater speed, and he
+ran so fast and hard that ere long he was compelled to drop to a walk to
+regain his breath.</p>
+
+<p>Great as was his hope, he felt much misgiving. The cavalry might arrive
+in time, but in the flurry sad mishaps were probable. It might be that
+his father or mother or Dot or Tim had fallen before the vigilance of
+the assailants. He could not feel any real happiness until he learned
+beyond peradventure that all was well.</p>
+
+<p>The shot fired by Tim Brophy the instant he caught sight of the warrior
+hurrying along the trail, with no thought that he was so close to the
+whites, was the best thing in every way that could have happened, for it
+not only wiped out the rash miscreant, but told those immediately behind
+him that the fugitives were at bay and ready to fight to the bitter end.</p>
+
+<p>There was an instant withdrawal beyond reach of the rifles, of whose
+effectiveness they had received more than one striking example that
+night.</p>
+
+<p>It took a considerable while for the Sioux to learn the whole truth. The
+fugitives had intrenched themselves in what was undoubtedly the most
+secure position near, and were on the watch. Gradually working round so
+as to enclose them against flight, the trail of the young rancher was
+discovered. A little investigation made known that he had mounted his
+pony and started off for assistance.</p>
+
+<p>But help was no nearer than Fort Meade, and, as the Indians naturally
+thought, it could not possibly arrive before the morrow. If this were
+so, abundant time remained in which to encompass the destruction of the
+defenders. The Sioux decided to maintain watch, but to defer the
+decisive assault until late at night.</p>
+
+<p>And it was this decision that saved the little party. Within the
+following two hours the friendly scouts reported the situation to the
+lieutenant of cavalry, who began his arrangements for an immediate
+attack upon the hostiles.</p>
+
+<p>The latter, however, were as watchful as their enemies, and were quick
+to learn their new danger. They withdrew and disappeared after the
+exchange of a few shots, fired under such circumstances that no harm was
+done on either side.</p>
+
+<p>The rescued whites were conducted to the foot of the ridge on the other
+side, where they were so disposed among their friends that all were
+furnished with transportation, and the journey to Fort Meade was begun,
+or rather resumed so far as they were concerned.</p>
+
+<p>Not far away they met the young rancher, breathless and in an agony of
+distress. His joy may be imagined upon learning the happy truth. All
+were saved without so much as a hair of their heads being harmed.</p>
+
+<p>The next day Warren returned for his pony, and found him so much better
+that he was able to walk with little trouble. The youth was too
+considerate to ask him to carry any load, and the two made the journey
+with the rider on foot.</p>
+
+<p>And so it came about that Providence mercifully extricated our friends
+from the danger which threatened more than once the ruin of all.</p>
+
+
+<h3>THE END.</h3>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
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@@ -0,0 +1,6476 @@
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Young Ranchers
+       or Fighting the Sioux
+
+Author: Edward S. Ellis
+
+Release Date: March 15, 2009 [EBook #28331]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE YOUNG RANCHERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by David Edwards, Mary Meehan and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net (This
+file was produced from images generously made available
+by The Internet Archive)
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+                          THE YOUNG RANCHERS
+
+                        OR _FIGHTING THE SIOUX_
+
+                  "FOREST AND PRAIRIE SERIES," No. 3.
+
+                          BY EDWARD S. ELLIS
+
+          AUTHOR OF "BOY PIONEER SERIES," "DEERFOOT SERIES,"
+                        "WILDWOOD SERIES," ETC.
+
+
+PHILADELPHIA
+HENRY T. COATES & CO.
+
+COPYRIGHT, 1895,
+BY PORTER & COATES.
+
+
+
+
+[Illustration: THE DEATH OF THE FAITHFUL MESSENGER.]
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+I. DANGER AHEAD
+
+II. THE VOICELESS FRIEND
+
+III. COMPANIONS IN PERIL
+
+IV. TIM BROPHY'S DISCOVERY
+
+V. LEAVING THE RANCH
+
+VI. "TIMOTHY BROPHY, ESQ., AT YOUR SERVICE"
+
+VII. STIRRING TIMES
+
+VIII. STARCUS
+
+IX. ON THE BANK OF A STREAM
+
+X. BENT ARM AND HIS BAND
+
+XI. AT BAY
+
+XII. FACING WESTWARD
+
+XIII. IN THE FRINGE OF THE WOODS
+
+XIV. TURNED BACK
+
+XV. MISSING
+
+XVI. A THIEF OF THE NIGHT
+
+XVII. THROUGH THE WOOD
+
+XVIII. NIGHT AND MORNING
+
+XIX. A STARTLING SURPRISE
+
+XX. A RUN FOR LIFE
+
+XXI. AWAY WE GO!
+
+XXII. ON FOOT
+
+XXIII. DOWN!
+
+XXIV. THE FRIEND IN NEED
+
+XXV. THE PRAIRIE DUEL
+
+XXVI. ON THE GROUND
+
+XXVII. A GOOD SAMARITAN
+
+XXVIII. THE LONE HORSEMAN
+
+XXIX. A BREAK FOR FREEDOM
+
+XXX. COMRADES AGAIN
+
+XXXI. THE LAST HOPE
+
+XXXII. AWAY! AWAY!
+
+XXXIII. BREAD CAST UPON THE WATERS
+
+
+
+
+LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
+
+
+THE DEATH OF THE FAITHFUL MESSENGER.
+
+A HOT PURSUIT.
+
+TIM'S FORTUNATE SHOT.
+
+THE DEATH OF THE INDIAN.
+
+
+
+
+THE YOUNG RANCHERS;
+
+OR,
+
+FIGHTING THE SIOUX.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+DANGER AHEAD.
+
+
+There was snow in the air. Warren Starr had felt it ever since meridian,
+though not a flake had fallen, and the storm might be delayed for hours
+yet to come. There was no mistaking the dull leaden sky, the chill in
+the atmosphere, and that dark, increasing gloom which overspreads the
+heavens at such times.
+
+Young Warren was a fine specimen of the young hunter, though he had not
+yet passed his nineteenth year. His home was in South Dakota, and he was
+now on his return from Fort Meade, at the eastern foot of the Black
+Hills, and had fully twenty miles to travel, though the sun was low in
+the horizon, as he well knew, even if it was veiled by the snow vapor.
+
+His father's ranch lay to the north of the Big Cheyenne, and the son was
+familiar with every foot of the ground, having traversed it many a time,
+not only on his visits to the fort, but in the numerous hunting
+excursions of which he was so fond. He could have made the journey by
+night, when no moon was in the sky, had there been need of doing so, but
+he decided that it was better to give his pony the rest he required, and
+to push on at an early hour the next morning. He had eaten nothing since
+the noon halt, and his youth and vigor gave him a powerful appetite, but
+he had learned long before that one of the first requisites of the
+hunter is to learn to endure cold, heat, hunger, and hardship
+unmurmuringly.
+
+But the youth was in so uneasy a mental state that he rode slowly for
+nearly an hour, debating with himself whether to draw rein or push on.
+The rumors of trouble among the Sioux were confirmed by his visit to
+Fort Meade. A spirit of unrest had prevailed for a long time, caused by
+the machinations of that marplot, Sitting Bull, the harangues of
+medicine men who proclaimed the coming Messiah, the ghost dances, the
+eagerness of the young bucks to take the warpath, and the universal
+belief that the last opportunity for the red men to turn back the
+advance of the Caucasian race was to be made soon or never.
+
+The fact that our Government had its military posts scattered through
+the disaffected country, that the Indian reservations were comparatively
+well governed, that the officers were men whose valor and skill had been
+proven times without number, and that these authorities were keeping
+close watch on the growing disaffection produced a quieting effect in
+many quarters, though the best informed men foresaw the impending storm.
+That which troubled Warren Starr on his lonely ride northward was the
+fact that on that ranch, twenty miles away, dwelt his father, mother,
+and little sister, known by the pet name of Dot. His father had two
+assistants in the care of the ranch, Jared Plummer, a man in middle
+life, and Tim Brophy, a lusty young Irishman, about the same age as
+Warren. But the ranch was not fitted to withstand an attack from any of
+the bands through the country. Those turbulent bucks were the very ones
+to assail his home with the fury of a cyclone, and if they did, Heaven
+help the loved ones there, even though the three men were well provided
+with arms and ammunition.
+
+The commandant of Fort Meade suggested to Warren that he urge his people
+to come into the fort without delay. Such a suggestion, coming from the
+officer, meant a good deal.
+
+That which caused the youth to decide to wait until morning was the
+fatigue of his animal, and the more important fact that it was best not
+only to arrive at the ranch in the daytime, but to ride through several
+miles of the surrounding country when the chance to use his eyes was at
+the best. If hostiles were in the section, he might pass within a
+hundred yards of them in the darkness without discovering it, but it was
+impossible to do so when the sun was in the sky.
+
+He was now riding across an open plain directly toward a small branch of
+the Big Cheyenne, beyond which lay his home. He could already detect the
+fringe of timber that lined both sides of the winding stream, while to
+the right rose a rocky ridge several hundred feet in height, and a mile
+or two distant appeared a similar range on the left.
+
+The well-marked trail which the lad was following passed between these
+elevations; that on the right first presenting itself and diverging so
+far to the east, just before the other ridge was reached, that it may be
+said it disappeared, leaving the other to succeed it.
+
+Despite the long ride and the fatigue of himself as well as his animal,
+young Starr was on the alert. He was in a dangerous country, and a
+little negligence on his part was liable to prove fatal.
+
+"If there is a lot of Sioux watching this trail for parties going either
+way, this is the spot," he reflected, grasping his Winchester, lying
+across his saddle, a little more firmly. "I have met them here more than
+once, and, though they claimed to be friendly, I was always uneasy, for
+it is hard for an Indian to resist the temptation to hurt a white man
+when it looks safe to do so."
+
+Nothing could have exceeded the caution of the youth. The trail showed
+so plainly that his pony kept to it without any guidance on his part,
+and the reins lay loose on his neck. Every minute or two the rider
+glanced furtively behind him to make sure no treacherous enemy was
+stealing upon him unawares; and then, after a hasty look to the right
+and left, he scanned the rocky ridge on his right, peering forward the
+next moment at the one farther off on his left.
+
+He was searching for that which he did not want to find--signs of red
+men. He knew a good deal of their system of telegraphy, and half
+suspected that some keen-eyed Sioux was crouching behind the rocks of
+the ridge, awaiting the moment to signal his approach to his confederate
+farther away.
+
+It might have seemed possible to some to flank the danger by turning far
+to the right or left, but that would have involved a long detour and
+delay in arriving home. At the same time, if any warriors were on the
+watch, they could easily checkmate him by accommodating their movements
+to his, and continually heading him off, whichever direction he took. He
+had considered all these contingencies, and felt no hesitation in
+pressing straight forward, despite the apparent peril involved in doing
+so.
+
+Suddenly Jack pricked his ears and raised his head, emitting at the same
+time a slight whiff through his nostrils.
+
+No words could have said more plainly: "Beware, master! I have
+discovered something."
+
+The rider's natural supposition was that the danger, whatever it might
+be, was on the crest of the ridge he was approaching; but, when he
+shaded his eyes and peered forward, he was unable to detect anything at
+all. Enough light remained in the sky for him to use his excellent eyes
+to the best advantage, but nothing rewarded the scrutiny.
+
+Jack continued advancing, though his gait was now a slow walk, as if he
+expected his master to halt altogether; but the latter acted like the
+skilful railway engineer, who, seeing the danger signal ahead, continues
+creeping slowly toward it, ready to check his train on the instant it
+becomes necessary to do so. He allowed the pony to step tardily forward,
+while he strove to locate the point whence peril threatened.
+
+"What the mischief do you see, Jack?" he asked, in a half-impatient
+tone; "if I didn't know you never joked, I would believe you were trying
+some trick on me to get me to camp for the night."
+
+Once the horseman fancied he caught the faint outlines of a thin column
+of smoke climbing into the sky from the crest of the ridge, but closer
+study convinced him that he was wrong. If such a signal were kindled, it
+must be clear enough to be recognized from the farther elevation, which
+was more distant than the horseman.
+
+"I shall observe the vapor as soon as they," he thought, "for my eyes
+are as sharp--helloa! that beats the mischief!"
+
+At last Warren Starr learned what it was that had alarmed his pony.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+THE VOICELESS FRIEND.
+
+
+The keen eyes, instead of looking at the crest of the rocky ridge on his
+right, were now centred on the ground, where they detected a small dark
+speck swiftly approaching the horseman. At the first glance, the object
+suggested a cannon-ball rolling with great speed toward the pony, that
+was now standing still, with head erect, ears thrown forward, and the
+appearance of perplexed interest in the thing, whatever it might be.
+
+For a minute Warren Starr was unable to guess the meaning of the
+singular sight. Whatever its nature, it was evident that it was aiming
+to reach the rider with the least possible delay. The latter drew his
+Winchester around in front, so as to be ready to receive it, his first
+thought being that it was some Sioux stratagem designed to do him ill.
+
+But while he gazed, he discovered its identity; it was a dog, running as
+if its very life were at stake. The next instant young Starr perceived
+something protruding from the front part of its body, resembling the
+ornamental feather in an Indian's head-dress.
+
+"It is an arrow!" he exclaimed. "The poor creature is badly wounded, and
+is striving to reach me before he dies. By gracious, it's Bruno!" he
+added, as a closer approach enabled him to identify the creature. "He
+brings me some message."
+
+Bruno was his favorite hound, that had accompanied him on many a hunting
+excursion, and whom he loved scarcely less than Jack, his pony.
+
+It was indeed a race with death on the part of the faithful animal.
+While yet a number of rods distant, he staggered, faltered, then
+gathering his energies pressed on with the last strength he could
+summon, and with a low moan rolled languidly on his side, and looking
+upward with a human expression to his young master, said by his action:
+"I have done the best I could for you, and I am content."
+
+Young Starr was out of the saddle like a flash, and ran forward to him.
+Stooping down, he placed one arm under the head of the noble dog, and,
+leaning over, touched his lips to the velvety forehead.
+
+"My poor Bruno, they have killed you!" he murmured, with tears in his
+eyes. "I would give an arm to save you, but it is too late."
+
+He saw that the head of the arrow was sunken deep into the neck, and the
+dark coat was splashed with crimson. To attempt to withdraw the missile
+was useless. It could only deepen the agony of the animal without
+relieving him in the least. He was doomed and dying before he sank to
+the ground.
+
+Bruno turned his beautiful eyes upward to his master, emitted a low
+moan, gave a slight quiver and gasp, and was dead. No martyr ever did
+his duty more heroically.
+
+For a few moments Warren Starr yielded to his grief. He remained with
+the exquisitely formed head resting on his arm, while the tears fell
+from his eyes on the form that could never respond again to his
+caresses. Then he gently withdrew his arm and suffered the head to rest
+on the ground.
+
+"Your last act was for those you love," he murmured; "you gave your life
+for us, and no man could do more. No one shall take from me the faith
+that we shall be happy together beyond the grave. Good-by, my true and
+faithful friend."
+
+Young Starr was too experienced a scout, despite his youth, to forget in
+his grief the full significance of the sad incident. The hound had
+travelled the long distance from the ranch to this point for the purpose
+of bringing him a message. He had been discovered while on the road, and
+fired upon by the Indians, who were so near that they used bows and
+arrows to prevent the young master taking the alarm. Many missiles were
+doubtless sent after the animal, and one was fated to bring him down,
+though not until he had accomplished his errand.
+
+Warren knew where to look for the message. He unstrapped the collar,
+with its silver plate--which he would have done under any circumstance
+to keep as a remembrance of his voiceless friend--and there, carefully
+folded and secure under the band, was a piece of paper, containing
+considerable writing in lead-pencil:
+
+     DEAR WARREN:
+
+     Don't come to the ranch. It is sure death to undertake it. A party
+     of twenty and more bucks are near us. They have killed or stampeded
+     our cattle, and will attack us this evening if we remain, which we
+     shall not do. Tim discovered them this afternoon, and learned
+     enough to make sure of their intention. We shall mount our horses
+     and start for Fort Meade. We dare not use the regular trail, along
+     which I suppose you are making your way, but must be guided by
+     circumstances. I think we shall move to the westward, taking the
+     most direct route to the post, but are likely to be forced into a
+     long detour, which renders it impossible for me to give you any
+     direction by which we can meet each other.
+
+     I know that your impulse will be to try to join us before we reach
+     the fort, but it is my earnest wish that you shall not attempt it.
+     Turn about at once, while you have time, and retrace your steps. If
+     a day or two shall pass without our coming in, perhaps it may be
+     well to ask the colonel to send out a squad of cavalry to help us,
+     for it is idle to fancy we are not in great peril. It is my prayer
+     that Bruno shall intercept you in time to prevent any mishap. I
+     have instructed him precisely what he is expected to do, and he not
+     only fully understands, but, as you well know, will do it if it be
+     possible.
+
+     YOUR FATHER.
+
+"You were right," said the youth gently, looking down once more on the
+inanimate form. "Bruno did his duty, and he deserves a monument for
+having done it so well."
+
+All this time the pony stood some feet away, motionless, and apparently
+a deeply interested witness of the singular scene.
+
+He was too well trained to leave his master, who never resorted to the
+precaution of securing him by his halter.
+
+Meanwhile night was closing in. The gloom was overspreading the prairie
+so that the ridge, which had been such a cause for solicitude to the
+youth, was now dimly discernible. In a few minutes it would be swallowed
+up in the coming darkness.
+
+Resolutely forcing his sadness aside, Warren knelt down and pressed his
+ear to the ground. If horsemen were approaching he could detect it
+through the sense of hearing.
+
+Then he climbed once more into the saddle and faced the ridge, debating
+with himself what was the right course to pursue. His father had said in
+unmistakable language that he wished him to return to Fort Meade.
+Warren was a dutiful son, but he could not persuade himself that that
+was the best thing to do. To follow his parent's wishes would require
+him to look after his own safety, and to forget those whose lives were
+dearer to him than his own. To return to the fort, and secure the aid
+that he knew would be cheerfully given, would take a day or two, during
+which the crisis must come and pass with his people. Two days at the
+most would settle the question whether they were to escape or fall
+victims to the ferocity of the Sioux.
+
+"I can't do it," he said, compressing his lips and shaking his head. "I
+have never played the coward, and I'm not going to begin when my folks
+are concerned. My first duty is to find out where father, mother, and
+Dot are, and then do all I can for their safety."
+
+It was not difficult to reach this conclusion, for which no one will
+deny him credit; but it was altogether a difficult and formidable task
+for him to decide what next to do.
+
+Had his friends been following the regular trail to the fort his course
+would have been simple, since he had only to continue on until he met
+them; but his father had notified him that not only would he not take
+that route, but he could not say which one he would adopt. He inclined
+to think he would turn to the westward, leaving the path on his left,
+but the question, as he said, must be settled by circumstances.
+
+Something cold touched his hand. It was a snowflake, and he knew that in
+a short time the ground would be wrapped in a mantle of white. Once more
+he glanced in the direction of the elevation, now invisible in the
+gathering darkness. On the utmost height a point of light appeared,
+shining for a moment with the steady radiance of a fixed star.
+
+"The bucks are there," concluded Warren; "they saw me from a long way,
+and must wonder why I am delayed--ah, sure enough!"
+
+All at once the gleaming light began circling about, faster and faster,
+until it looked like a wheel of fire. Then it reversed, whirling as
+swiftly in the opposite direction, then up and down, then from side to
+side, and finally, whiff! it vanished.
+
+A grim smile lit the face of the youth, who turned his gaze toward the
+more distant ridge on his left for the answer, but if it was made, the
+state of the atmosphere prevented his seeing it. Once he fancied he
+caught the glimpse of something resembling a fire-fly, but it was only
+for an instant, and was not observed again.
+
+It was easy to read the meaning of that which first showed itself. A
+party of Indians that had evidently been watching his coming, while yet
+a long way off, now telegraphed his arrival to their confederates on the
+more distant elevation, together with the fact that the white man had
+ceased his approach and might not come any nearer.
+
+It was reasonable to believe that these same red men would not remain
+idle while the object of their wrath turned quietly about and retraced
+his steps.
+
+Only a few minutes were used in considering the question, but the time
+had not yet expired, when, to Warren's astonishment, he heard the sound
+of firing ahead. Probably eight or ten shots were discharged at quick
+but irregular intervals, and then all once more became still.
+
+A pang of apprehension passed through him at the fear that his friends,
+after all, might have attempted to reach the fort by the trail, and had
+become involved in a fight with the Sioux. Be that as it may, the fact
+was impressed on him that he was doing an imprudent thing by remaining
+in the path along which the warriors were liable to burst at any moment.
+He turned Jack to the left and rode fully a hundred yards before again
+drawing rein. It was not necessary to go this far to place himself
+beyond sight of the path, but he wished to take no unnecessary chances.
+
+By this time the snowflakes were falling fast, and it was impossible to
+see objects more than twenty feet distant. Warren checked his pony,
+holding him with his nose toward the trail, and listened.
+
+Again the intelligent animal elevated his head, pricked his ears, and
+emitted an almost noiseless neigh, as was his habit when he discovered
+the approach of strangers. His rider could discern nothing through the
+gloom, and resorted to the resource tried before, which is a common one
+among hunters and warriors. Descending from the saddle, he brushed aside
+the snow from a small spot on the ground and pressed his ear against the
+earth.
+
+This time he _did_ hear something. A horse was approaching over the
+trail on a swift gallop, and it took but a brief while for the youth to
+learn that he was coming from the direction of the ridge. Furthermore,
+there was but the single horseman; or, if there were others, they were
+so far off that no thought need be given to them.
+
+Remounting his pony, Warren held him facing the path, and prepared for
+any emergency likely to arise. He was well aware that if the stranger
+kept to the trail he would be invisible in the gloom, but he was now so
+near that from his seat young Starr plainly caught the sound of his
+horse's hoofs, growing more distinct every moment.
+
+Whoever it was that was advancing, it was evident he was doing so at
+what might be called a leisurely pace, though it was quite rapid. The
+horse was on an easy canter, such as his species can maintain for hours
+without fatigue.
+
+The youth was sitting in this posture, with never a thought of what was
+coming, when to his amazement he caught the outlines of the man and his
+steed passing at right angles to the course he had been following
+himself.
+
+"He is off the trail!" was the alarming fact which caused Warren to make
+ready to fire, for the truth was apparent that if he saw the stranger,
+the latter had the same opportunity of seeing him.
+
+To his surprise Jack uttered a neigh at the critical moment when the
+other was directly opposite. A collision now seemed certain, but the
+other kept straight on, and quickly passed from sight.
+
+Not until he had been several minutes beyond hearing did the startling
+thought come to Warren Starr:
+
+"That was a white man, and not an Indian."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+COMPANIONS IN PERIL.
+
+
+Warren Starr was impatient with himself that he had not thought of the
+stranger being a white man until it was too late to make use of the
+important fact. The sounds of firing ahead ought to have raised the
+suspicion in his mind, and the act of his pony should have confirmed it,
+for he never would have betrayed himself to one of his own species had
+he not known that he belonged to a friend.
+
+But it was a waste of time to bewail what could not be helped, and
+nothing was to be gained by staying where he was. There was no longer
+any call to push onward toward the ranch, for that was not his
+destination. He was seeking his folks.
+
+Once more the nose of Jack was turned about, and this time he was headed
+toward the northwest, his course being such that it would take him
+considerably to the west of the second rocky ridge to which allusion has
+been made. In short, Warren had now set out to do that which he would
+not have attempted but for the receipt of the message from his father.
+He was about to flank both elevations by swerving far from the direct
+course to his home.
+
+The small tributary of the Big Cheyenne, which it was necessary to ford
+in order to reach the ranch, made a sweeping curve southward, so that
+the marked change in the course he was following would take him to it,
+though at a point far removed from the regular ford.
+
+The youth was not riding blindly forward. It has been stated that he was
+familiar with the country for many miles around his home, and he was
+making for a definite point. It was on the bank of the small stream, and
+was not only deeply wooded, but abounded with rocks, bowlders,
+depressions, ravines, and wild, dangerous places, where it was certain
+death for a person to try to make his way in the darkness, unless he
+knew every foot of the locality.
+
+This was the locality for which young Starr was aiming. Here he was
+confident of finding security against the Sioux, though they might be
+near at hand. He knew just where to go, for he had hunted through it
+many times with his friend Tim Brophy, for whose company he longed more
+than ever before.
+
+Jack wanted food, but it could not be had. He did not need it, however,
+to the extent of suffering. At the noon halt, when his master sat on the
+ground by a spring of cold water to eat his lunch, the pony had cropped
+the succulent grass that grew around, and he could stand it quite well
+until the morrow. The animal needed rest and shelter more than anything
+else, and it was that which his young master meant he should have.
+
+As if he understood it all, the horse of his own accord struck into a
+brisk gallop, which rendered unnecessary any other protection from the
+cold. The snow was still falling, but the temperature was not low, and
+there was not enough on the ground to interfere with the travelling of
+the animal, who maintained his pace until the abrupt appearance of the
+rocky section, with its trees and bowlders, compelled him to drop to a
+slow walk, with his nose thrust forward, as if to scent every step of
+the way, like an elephant crossing a doubtful bridge.
+
+"Here we are, my boy!" called out Warren, "and you couldn't have come
+more truly if the sun had been shining."
+
+It certainly was a marvellous piece of woodcraft, if such it may be
+called, on the part of the pony, that he should have struck the spot so
+accurately, and yet it is scarcely less marvellous that, had he needed
+direction, his master was competent to give it, despite the darkness and
+the snow.
+
+Warren left the saddle for the last time. With no stars or moon in the
+sky, and with the snow falling faster than ever, it would seem that
+one's eyes were of little use, but they served their purpose well in the
+present instance. Paying no heed to the animal, he bent over, groping
+his way among the rocks, which began abruptly on the edge of the
+prairie, and had not spent five minutes thus when he came upon that for
+which he was looking--an opening between a mass of bowlders, along which
+a person or animal could make his way with little difficulty.
+
+"Here we are, Jack, my boy! Come on; we'll soon reach our house."
+
+With more thrusting forward of the head, and sniffing of the air, the
+pony obeyed, though it is hardly to be supposed that he understood all
+that was said to him.
+
+On the previous winter, when Warren Starr and Tim Brophy were hunting in
+this section, they found game so abundant that they decided to spend two
+or three days in the neighborhood. Accordingly they put up a shelter
+which afforded good protection at night, and would do the same against
+any storm not too violent. A rock a dozen feet in length formed a
+half-circle, the upper edge projecting over to the extent of a yard or
+more. All that was required was to lean a number of branches against
+this, the upper parts supported by the ledge, while the lower rested on
+the ground, some eight or ten feet away from the base.
+
+These branches being numerous and thickly placed, constituted what might
+be considered a tepee, with only the broad opening in front.
+
+It was in this rude shelter that Warren Starr and Tim Brophy had spent a
+couple of nights in comparative comfort. The second one was bitterly
+cold, and they kindled a fire near the entrance. The smoke caused some
+trouble, but wrapped in their thick blankets, and stretched out back to
+back, they slept as soundly as if in their beds at home.
+
+This was the structure which the youth had in mind when he turned his
+back on the regular trail and made for the wild solitude through which
+he now began threading his way, and it was a striking tribute to his
+woodcraft and knowledge that within fifteen minutes he reached the very
+spot, with his pony at his heels.
+
+"This is the place," he remarked to his animal, "but there don't seem to
+be any lamps lighted, and it's best to look around a little before
+retiring for the night."
+
+Drawing a rubber match-safe from his pocket, he ignited one of the tiny
+bits of wood, shading the twist of flame from the snowflakes, though
+there was no wind stirring.
+
+It was months since he had visited the place, and the elements were
+likely to have played havoc with the structure during that period, for
+in that part of our Union the blizzard and tempest raise the mischief at
+certain seasons.
+
+He was gratified, however, to note the slight change effected. One or
+two of the long branches had fallen to the ground and several others
+were askew. He was obliged to fling aside the match while he devoted
+some minutes to straightening them. This was effected so well that when
+he stepped inside and struck another match he saw not a flake of snow
+filtering through the crevices, though there was likely to be
+considerable before morning.
+
+"Come in!" was the astonishing command the youth gave to his pony, who
+stood looking at him, as if wondering what the next move was to be. The
+situation was amusing, and not without its ludicrous side, with Warren
+holding a match in one hand, his rifle in the other, and his heavy
+blanket wrapped about his shoulders, beckoning and addressing the pony,
+which hesitated for a minute at this unexpected invitation to share the
+couch of his master.
+
+But he was an obedient animal, and with some more sniffing and poking
+forward of his nose, he stepped slowly forward until he was entirely
+within the rude structure.
+
+"Now lie down," added Warren, lighting another match, and Jack obeyed
+with more promptness than before. Then the youth flung the broad, heavy
+blanket over the pony so as to envelop as much of him as possible, lay
+down close to the front of his body, adjusting the hoofs as best he
+could, drew the rest of the covering over himself, and was excusable for
+chuckling:
+
+"Now, Jack, old fellow, what's to prevent us from sleeping as snug as a
+bug in a rug! Hey, my boy?"
+
+Everything promised well, but before either could fall asleep, they were
+startled beyond measure by hearing someone moving outside. Whispering
+to the horse to keep still, Warren slipped out from under the blanket
+and moved softly to the opening, revolver in hand. As he did so, he ran
+squarely against another person who was in the act of entering the place
+of shelter.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+TIM BROPHY'S DISCOVERY.
+
+
+The letter which was delivered to Warren Starr by his mortally wounded
+hound not only gave that young man definite news of the alarming events
+in the neighborhood of his home, but has conveyed to the reader the
+cause of the abrupt change in his plans and of the stirring incidents
+which led to the hasty flight of the Starr family from their ranch on
+the north of the Big Cheyenne River.
+
+As stated in the note, it was Tim Brophy, the young Irishman, who made
+the discovery in time to prevent the family being overwhelmed and
+massacred. While Jared Plummer, the lank New Englander, rode to the
+westward to look after some strays, Tim galloped north to attend to the
+main herd, which was supposed to be cropping the abundant grass in the
+neighborhood of several small streams and tributaries of the main
+river.
+
+Tim had been in the employ of Mr. Starr for three years, and had spent
+most of his life in the West, so that he had fully learned the lesson
+which such an experience should teach everyone. He knew of the impending
+trouble among the Indian tribes, and was always on the alert. It was not
+long, therefore, before he came upon signs which told him something was
+amiss.
+
+In the corner of a natural clearing, near one of the small streams, he
+discovered a dozen of the cattle lying dead. It was not necessary for
+him to dismount and examine the ground to learn the cause of such
+slaughter. The footprints of ponies near by, the bullet wounds, and
+other indications answered the question that came to his lips at the
+first glimpse of the cruel butchery.
+
+"The spalpeens!" he exclaimed wrath-fully. "They niver had a better
+friend than Mr. Starr, and that's the shtyle in which they pays him for
+the same. Worrah, worrah, but it's too bad!"
+
+Riding cautiously to the top of the next elevation, the young rancher
+saw other sights which filled him with greater indignation and
+resentment. A half mile to the northward the entire herd of cattle,
+numbering several hundreds, were scurrying over the plain in a wild
+panic. The figures of several Sioux bucks galloping at their heels,
+swinging their arms and shouting, so as to keep up and add to the
+affright, left no doubt that Mr. Starr's fine drove of cattle was gone
+beyond recovery. The result of months of toil, expense, and trouble were
+vanishing as they sometimes do before the resistless sweep of the
+cyclone.
+
+The blue eyes of the Celt flashed, as he sat in the saddle and
+contemplated the exasperating raid. Nothing would have pleased him
+better than to dash with several companions after the marauders and
+force them to a reckoning for the outrage. But eager as he was for such
+an affray, he was too wise to try it alone. There were five or six of
+the horsemen, and he was no match for them.
+
+Besides this, a more alarming discovery broke upon him within a minute
+after observing the stampede. From the clump of wood on his right, along
+the edge of the stream, only a few hundred yards away, he detected the
+faint smoke of a camp-fire. The Sioux were there.
+
+The sight so startled Tim that he wheeled his pony short around and
+withdrew behind the elevation he had just ascended, fearing he had
+already been observed by the red men.
+
+Such undoubtedly would have been the fact had any of the turbulent Sioux
+been on guard, but the occasion was one of those rare ones in which the
+warriors acted upon the theory that no such precaution was needed, since
+no possible danger could threaten them.
+
+Suspecting the truth, Tim dropped hastily from his pony and stole along
+the edge of the stream, until he reached a point which gave him a sight
+of the miscreants, and at the same time afforded him tolerably fair
+protection.
+
+The scene was calculated to inspire anything but pleasant feelings in a
+spectator. Fully a score of young warriors were squatted in a circle,
+listening to the harangue of one of their number, who had wrought
+himself into a furious passion. He was swinging his arms, shouting and
+leaping about like a lunatic, and rising to a pitch which not only
+threatened to throw him into a paroxysm, but was imparting itself to his
+listeners. Some of them were smoking, but showing at the same time an
+excitement which is generally believed to be foreign to the American
+race. They were all bucks, and eager to be led upon the warpath. There
+was not an old or middle-aged man among them.
+
+The eavesdropper was not able to understand their words, but the
+gestures left no doubt of their fearful meaning. The speaker pointed in
+the direction of the home of the Starrs so often, and indulged in so
+much action to which the others signified full assent, that it was
+beyond dispute that they meant to attack the house and slay the inmates.
+Knowing all about these, and the resistance they were likely to meet,
+they would wait until night before bursting upon them.
+
+Tim Brophy was sagacious enough to grasp almost on the instant the full
+nature of the awful peril. He saw that accident, or rather Providence,
+had given to him the secret which revealed that only by prompt action
+could the lives of his friends be saved. There was no saying how long
+the council, if such it may be called, would last, and he did not care
+to know.
+
+Nothing could show the intense absorption of the fierce Sioux in the
+outrage they had determined to commit more than the fact that a white
+man rose up in full view only a few hundred yards away, without his
+presence being detected. Such being the case, it was easy for Tim to
+withdraw from the immediate vicinity of the gathering, steal round to
+where his pony was cropping the grass, and mount again.
+
+He rode carefully forward, keeping the elevation between him and the
+camp of the hostiles, until convinced it was safe, when he struck his
+horse into a run and sped away as if for life.
+
+A few minutes sufficed to take him to the house, where the unsuspicious
+folk looked up in wonder at his haste and agitation. Mr. Starr was
+sitting near the window reading a newspaper, his little girl Dot was
+playing with her doll on the floor, and the wife was busy with her
+household duties.
+
+It took but a few minutes for Tim to tell the news. Jared Plummer had
+not yet come in, and there could be no guessing as to what additional
+facts he would give them.
+
+Like his employe, the rancher was quick to grasp the situation. The only
+possible safety was in flight, and no time was to be lost.
+
+The building, with its broad, flat roof, its many windows and insecure
+portions, was in no condition for successful defence, where the small
+garrison could not guard one-half the weak points. The assailants could
+readily fire it, and it would burn like so much touchwood. Flight,
+therefore, was the one and only thing to be thought of.
+
+It was yet comparatively early in the afternoon, and those on the ranch
+had noted the signs of the approaching snowstorm. The husband directed
+his wife to make her preparations few and simple, and to waste no time.
+It was idle to bewail the necessity which compelled them to leave so
+many precious articles behind. Life was dearer than all, and the
+courageous helpmate proved herself equal to the occasion. She gathered
+the articles of clothing they were likely to need, filled several bags
+with the provisions in the house, and announced that she was ready.
+
+There was a horse each for the father, mother, and Tim Brophy, while a
+fourth, a small, tough pony, was laden with the bag of provisions, extra
+clothing, and a few articles deemed indispensable. These were brought
+round to the front, and in much less time than would be supposed the
+little cavalcade was ready to move.
+
+Despite the belief of Brophy that no attack would be made until after
+darkness had closed,--a belief shared by Mr. Starr,--the rancher was
+fearful that his home would be placed under surveillance while daylight
+lasted, and that the intended flight would be discovered before it
+began. In such an event, the family could only fight it out to the
+desperate end, and that they would do so admits of no doubt.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+LEAVING THE RANCH.
+
+
+Now that everything was ready, Mr. Starr felt anxious about the absent
+Jared Plummer. He ought to have learned of the danger before this, and
+should have been almost, if not quite, as prompt as Tim Brophy in
+hastening to the house. His continued absence gave ground for fear that
+harm had befallen him, but his friends were powerless to give him help.
+
+"It won't do to wait," remarked the rancher gravely, "and he will be as
+able to do without as with us."
+
+"Why not lave a missage for him?" asked Tim.
+
+"The idea is a good one," replied Mr. Starr, who, sitting down,
+hurriedly penned the following upon a slip of paper, and pinned it on
+the front door of the dwelling, where it was sure to catch the eye of
+the absent one in the event of his return:
+
+     TO JARED PLUMMER:
+
+     The presence of the Sioux, and the certainty that they will attack
+     the ranch before long, leave no choice for us but to flee at once.
+     I have waited as long as I dare. We shall take a south-west course
+     and will aim to reach Fort Meade. Follow as soon as you can, and we
+     will look out for each other; but give your thoughts and energies
+     to taking care of yourself. More than likely we shall not see each
+     other until we meet at the post, if it be God's will that we shall
+     safely arrive there.
+
+     GEORGE STARR.
+
+Little Dot watched her father with great interest while he was fastening
+this piece of paper to the door of their home.
+
+"What's that for, papa?" she asked.
+
+"It is something for Mr. Plummer to read when he comes back."
+
+"Don't you want anyone else to read it?"
+
+"Of course not," replied the parent with a smile, lovingly patting the
+chubby cheek.
+
+"But if the bad Indians you and mamma have been talking about come here,
+they will read it too."
+
+The father started. He had not thought of that. The next moment,
+however, he laughed.
+
+"The Indians don't know how to read writing or print, so it won't do
+them any good."
+
+"But Starcus can read as well as anybody."
+
+"He has been to school and learned, and then he is a good Indian, too,
+and I wouldn't care if he did read it."
+
+"But maybe he will become bad like the other Indians," persisted the
+child.
+
+The husband looked significantly at his wife, who was also watching his
+actions and listening to the conversation. She replied with a motion of
+the head, which said there might be something in the words of the little
+one.
+
+Starcus was a young Indian that had been attending the Carlisle school
+for a couple of years, and had acquired a fair English education, being
+able to read, write, and talk intelligently. He had called at the house
+several times, and interested the family by his pleasing ways and kind
+words.
+
+He remarked on his last visit, some weeks before, that he was likely to
+remain some time with his people, and possibly would not return again
+to the East. Many things were more unlikely than that he would be
+carried away by the craze that was affecting his tribe, and become one
+of the most ferocious foes of the Caucasian race.
+
+"Tim," said Mr. Starr, turning to the Irishman, "did you notice whether
+he was among the group you saw?"
+
+"I didn't observe him, but they were fixed out in war-paint and toggery
+so that I wouldn't have knowed the gintleman onless I was inthrodooced
+to the same. Thin, too, he might have been one of the spalpeens who were
+stampeding the cattle."
+
+"Well, there's no use in thinking of that; we must take the chances; the
+Sioux will find out what course we follow without asking anyone to
+translate this message for them."
+
+Mrs. Starr caught the arm of her husband, and as he turned he noticed
+that her face was pale with emotion.
+
+"What is it, wife?" he asked in alarm.
+
+"Warren," she replied in a whisper.
+
+"What about him?"
+
+"This is the day he said he would leave the fort for home; he must be on
+the way now; unless he is warned he will ride to his death without
+suspecting it."
+
+The father forgot their own danger for the moment in his alarm for his
+son. It took but a few minutes to act upon the plan of which the reader
+has learned long since. Another letter was pencilled and secured to the
+collar of Bruno, whose instructions were so minute that they would have
+been ludicrous, but for their warrant in the wonderful intelligence of
+the animal. The hound sped away like an arrow from the bow, and the
+faithfulness with which he did his work need not be retold.
+
+There was no call for further delay. Mr. Starr mounted his fine animal,
+armed with Winchester and revolver, after he had assisted his wife upon
+another horse and placed Dot in front of her. The mother was a superior
+horsewoman, and this arrangement was intended to leave the husband free
+to act without hinderance, in the event of an emergency. Tim Brophy was
+equally at liberty, and with the pack animal well laden the party left
+the home, each oppressed by a great fear that they would not only never
+look upon it again, but would probably be struck down before reaching
+the nearest point of safety, many miles away, at the base of the Black
+Hills.
+
+More than one eye anxiously turned toward the elevation, beyond which
+Tim Brophy had seen the bucks listening to the impassioned harangue of
+their leader, and the relief was not great when they rode over another
+swell in the plain, which shut them out from the sight of any of the
+serpent-eyed Sioux concealed there; for there could be no certainty that
+the fugitives had not been observed by them. It was not the custom of
+their people to attack openly; more likely they would set some ambush
+into which the whites might ride with no thought of danger.
+
+But in one sense the Rubicon was crossed. They had turned their backs on
+the ranch, and it was to be dismissed from their thoughts until they
+should reach some place of safety.
+
+There was little said by any member of the party, for the occasion was
+not one to induce conversation. Even little Dot was oppressed by the
+general gloom, and nestled close to her mother, whose arm lovingly
+encircled and held her close to her breast, which would gladly receive
+any blow intended for that precious one.
+
+Tim Brophy remained a brief distance at the rear, with the pack animal,
+on the alert for the first sign of danger, while Mr. Starr gave his
+attention to the front, selecting the course, and doing all in his power
+to avoid leading his companions into danger.
+
+When, however, a half mile had been passed, during which several ridges
+were crossed, a feeling of hope arose that after all they might elude
+their vengeful enemies. With the coming of night, it would be impossible
+for the Sioux to trail them. They must wait until the following morning,
+and before that time the fugitives ought to be so near Fort Meade that
+the pursuit would be in vain.
+
+It was a striking proof of parental affection that now, when the cloud
+was partly lifted from the father and mother, their anxiety should be
+transferred to the absent son on his way to join them. He was in the
+minds of both, and despite his exceptional skill in woodcraft, the
+conviction grew upon the parents that he was in greater peril than they.
+Finally, the mother uttered the thoughts in her mind.
+
+"I agree with you, Molly," the husband replied. "Bruno will do his best,
+but I believe the chances are a hundred to one that he will fail, and
+Warren will ride straight to his death."
+
+"Can't we do something, George?"
+
+The husband turned his head, and beckoned to his employe to ride up
+between them.
+
+"Tim, you know the regular trail to the fort as well as the way to your
+own bedroom. I want you to set out to meet Warren, and prevent his
+running into the hands of the Sioux."
+
+"Whin would ye like me to start?"
+
+"Now."
+
+"I'm riddy and waiting to ride to me death for the boy, if nade be."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+"TIMOTHY BROPHY, ESQ., AT YOUR SERVICE."
+
+
+At first thought, the abrupt departure of Tim Brophy may seem an
+imprudent thing, since it left only one man to look after the safety of
+Mrs. Starr and their little one; but it will be remembered that the hope
+of safety lay not in fighting, but in flight; and the presence or
+absence of the young Irishman could not affect that one way or the
+other.
+
+Accordingly, with a pause only long enough to draw a substantial lunch
+from the provision bag and to bid his friends good-by, Tim wheeled his
+horse and was off like a shot. He took good care to avoid the
+neighborhood of the bucks, and soon left the ranch far behind, speeding
+along the trail over which Warren Starr was at that moment galloping
+toward him.
+
+The youth drove his task through with all the impetuosity of his nature.
+He was devotedly attached to the son of his employer, and was ready at
+any time, as he had always been, to risk his life for him. Believing as
+he did that he was in more imminent peril than anyone else, he bent
+every energy toward reaching and turning him aside before it was too
+late.
+
+In this essay, Tim committed a mistake which Warren Starr narrowly
+avoided. He acted on the theory that the only real danger was in the
+immediate neighborhood of the ranch, and that none existed near the
+ridges between which the trail led. The consequence was that, when he
+was not dreaming of any such thing, he suddenly became the target for a
+fusillade from Sioux rifles that were waiting to receive young Starr,
+and therefore were not fully prepared for him. By desperate work and
+good fortune he and his pony ran the gauntlet unscathed, and continued
+their flight southward. The whinny of his friend's pony, he supposed,
+came from one of the horses of his enemies, and therefore he galloped on
+without paying any heed to it.
+
+Meanwhile, as will be remembered, young Starr had pushed through the
+falling snow and gathering darkness until he and his horse reached the
+primitive shelter among the rocks, bowlders, and trees which he had used
+when on previous hunting expeditions. After he and Jack had disposed
+themselves for the night they were disturbed by the approach of someone.
+Rising to his feet, Warren hurried stealthily to the door, where he ran
+directly against the intruder, whom he was unable to recognize in the
+gloom.
+
+"Who are you?" he asked, holding his revolver ready for instant use, but
+unwilling to fire until sure he was facing an enemy.
+
+"Timothy Brophy, Esq., at your service," replied his friend, identifying
+the other by his voice.
+
+"Why, Tim, I can't tell you how glad I am to see you," exclaimed the
+delighted Warren: "I have thought a score of times, when on the way, how
+pleasant it would be to meet you. What brought you here?"
+
+"My horse, and I presume that yours did the same for yersilf."
+
+"Where is he?"
+
+"Outside, near by, wid the bist shelter I could give him: I didn't saa
+your own."
+
+"He's inside, sharing my couch with me, or, rather, was doing so when
+you disturbed us."
+
+Tim broke into laughter.
+
+"That's a good idaa; I niver heerd of anything like it before. Is there
+room for Billy, too?"
+
+"I'm afraid we would be crowded; but come inside till I strike a match
+and show you how things are fixed."
+
+The two entered, and Warren ignited another lucifer. Jack was evidently
+puzzled, raising his head and looking at them in a way which suggested
+that he would like to come to his feet.
+
+"Lie down, old fellow!" commanded his master; "there's nothing to be
+disturbed about; you couldn't have better quarters, and you will be wise
+to stay where you are; you're better off than Billy."
+
+Now that Tim had arrived with his blanket, it was decided that the pony
+should be left where he was, while the youths lay down on the other
+covering, which was wrapped about them.
+
+Then they curled up and made themselves as comfortable as on their
+previous stay in the rude shelter.
+
+Lying thus, they naturally talked over what had taken place since their
+last meeting. Warren's voice trembled when he told the story of Bruno,
+who gave his life for him and his friends, and Tim related what had
+befallen the others during the day.
+
+Young Starr was filled with alarm for his parents and little sister, but
+Tim was hopeful that everything would come out right, and that, by the
+time the sun rose, they would be so far advanced on their way to Fort
+Meade that the danger would be virtually over.
+
+"Ye knows," he continued, "that yer fayther is acquainted wid the way as
+well as yerself; the horses are frish and strong, and he'll not spare
+thim; the road, too, is not as long as by the rig'lar route that we've
+follyed so often."
+
+"That is true, but it must be all of thirty miles, and is really much
+greater because of the ridges, hills, streams, and difficult places in
+the path, which will compel many detours."
+
+"And the same will have to be observed by the spalpeens that may be
+thrying to overtake thim."
+
+"But they understand the business better."
+
+"I'm not so sartin of that," sturdily replied Tim; "yer fayther is no
+green hand."
+
+"That isn't what I mean; I'm thinking of mother and Dot; he will have to
+accommodate himself to them, and in case the Indians do come up with
+them----"
+
+"Arrah, now, what are ye thinking of?" demanded Tim impatiently; "if ye
+want to go to specylatin' and 'ifing,' ye may refar to oursilves and say
+that if the spalpeens come down here wid Sitting Bull laading the same,
+and they sit fire to this ilegant risidence, what will become of us?"
+
+"That is very well, Tim, and you mean right, but I shall not rest a
+minute until I know they have reached the fort. It's strange, too, about
+Plummer."
+
+"It's my opinion," remarked the Irishman, lowering his voice, as though
+afraid of being overheard, "that he's in throuble."
+
+"Why do you think so?"
+
+"Because he did not show up before we lift; he hadn't any farther to go
+than mesilf, and it was nearly an hour after I got back before we come
+away, but there was no sign of him."
+
+"Did you hear no firing?"
+
+"Not that I remimber; which reminds me that it was also quaar that the
+Sioux could have shot down the cattle as they did, so near the house,
+widout any of us noting the noise of their guns."
+
+"It was singular, but perhaps you were all inside at the time, busy at
+something. At any rate, instead of our hurrying back to the fort, we
+will do our best to find father and mother, and stick by them to the
+end."
+
+"I'm wid ye there," was the hearty response of Tim; "I'd like to give
+Plummer a helping hand, but see no way to do the same, and it is likely
+that he can get along better widout us than wid us."
+
+The two talked a long time, for their hearts were full. It was not until
+midnight that a feeling of drowsiness began creeping over them. Tim's
+remarks began to grow slower and more disconnected, until finally he
+failed to answer at all. Finding that he was asleep, Warren composed
+himself as comfortably as he could, and soon joined him in the land of
+dreams.
+
+The snow continued sifting softly downward, and rattled against the
+branches and leaves which composed a portion of their house. The
+temperature sank as the night progressed, and the situation of the
+couple, no less than that of their friends, became anything but hopeful.
+
+They were still a long way from the post, where they could feel secure,
+and the Indians were certain to press them hard. They were so much more
+numerous than the little band of fugitives that the advantage lay wholly
+with them.
+
+But the night passed without disturbance. Then the pony and the two
+youths awoke simultaneously, for they were aroused by one of the most
+startling causes that can be conceived: It was the screaming whinny of
+Tim Brophy's horse--a cry rarely heard from the animal, and only when in
+the very extremity of mortal terror.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+STIRRING TIMES.
+
+
+Warren Starr and Tim Brophy sprang up at the same instant. The gray
+light of the early wintry morning was stealing through the rocky
+solitude, the snow had ceased falling, and the weather was colder than
+on the preceding evening. The pony also began struggling to his feet,
+but the youths in their excitement paid no heed to him.
+
+"It's Billy," whispered Tim.
+
+"Yes; let's see what is the matter."
+
+The young Irishman had formed the decision a moment before, for he was
+as ready to defend his horse as a friend. He bounded out from the rude
+shelter, with his companion at his heels.
+
+It was but a short distance to the spot where he had left the animal to
+spend the night. The boys dropped their blankets, but each grasped his
+Winchester, confident that there was call for its use.
+
+It was on a small natural clearing, where, after grazing a few minutes
+in the dark, the pony had lain down to sleep, his instinct leading him
+to select the side of a towering rock, where he was well protected from
+the falling snow. This bare place was less than a quarter of an acre in
+extent, and narrowed to what might be called a point, where the horse
+had found refuge from the storm. Surrounded by bowlders, varying in
+height from eight or more feet to twice that extent, his only means of
+entering or leaving was through the opening at the extreme end, which
+was not less than a rod in width.
+
+The pony had probably risen to his feet with the first coming of
+daylight, when he was confronted by the most terrifying sight
+conceivable; a colossal grizzly bear stood in the middle of the "door,"
+calmly surveying him, and evidently of the belief that he had come upon
+the most palatable kind of breakfast, which was already secured to him
+beyond possibility of loss.
+
+When it is borne in mind that the pony was caught in a trap as secure as
+an iron cage, it will be understood why the intelligent animal, in the
+agony of helplessness, emitted that astounding cry which rang like the
+wail of doom through the snowy solitude. Thousands of his species live
+for years and die without giving expression to that horrible outcry, for
+it requires the agony of fear to call it forth.
+
+The horse has five times the intelligence of the bear, but the latter
+was not stupid enough to fail to see his advantage, or to allow it to
+slip from him. The enormous trail which he had made in the snow was
+noticed by Tim Brophy before seeing the brute, and he identified it at a
+glance, his only fear being that he might arrive too late to save his
+pony.
+
+The latter cowered against the rock, his fright so pitiable that, in the
+stirring moments, both youths were touched with sympathy for him.
+
+"Begorra, but isn't he a bouncer?" whispered Tim, coming to a halt. "I
+niver looked upon as big a one."
+
+"Has he hurt Billy?" asked Warren, who, as will be remembered, was a
+few paces behind him while making the brief run.
+
+"He has scared him out of ten years' growth, and it's mesilf that's
+going to pay the same compliment to the spalpeen."
+
+"Be careful, Tim! You know how hard it is to kill one of those
+creatures, and when they are roused----"
+
+Further utterance was cut short by the report of Tim's gun. The young
+Irishman's failing was his impetuosity. When he saw his services needed,
+he was so eager to give them that he frequently threw caution to the
+winds, and plunged into the fray like a diver going off the rocks.
+
+Halting less than fifty feet away, he brought his rifle to a level and
+let fly. It was as impossible for him to miss as it was to inflict a
+mortal wound, and the ball meant for the skull of the brute found
+lodgment elsewhere.
+
+The bear appeared to be in the act of rising partly on his haunches,
+when the report, and probably a sharp twinge in his shoulder, apprised
+him of what was going on at the rear. The contemplated feast was not to
+be without its unpleasant interruption.
+
+He uttered a low growl and came straight for the two youths. Their
+rifles being of the magazine kind, they were prepared to open a
+bombardment, which they did without delay; but after a number of shots
+had been fired, and the mountainous animal continued to sweep down upon
+them, Warren called out:
+
+"Let's run, Tim! we need a cannon to stop him; we must find some place
+to shelter us."
+
+Not doubting that his comrade would instantly follow, Warren wheeled
+about and dashed off without paying heed to the direction; he had no
+time to make any calculations.
+
+Despite the fall of snow, there were only two or three inches on the
+ground, just enough to interfere with rapid travelling. Young Starr had
+not taken a dozen steps, when his foot turned on a smooth stone and he
+pitched headlong, with his gun flying from his grasp. He was not hurt,
+and he bounded up again as if made of rubber. He supposed the animal,
+which can lumber along at a speedy gait despite its awkwardness, was on
+his heels, but the furtive glance over his shoulder showed nothing of
+him, and the youth plunged forward and caught up his weapon as may be
+said on the fly.
+
+With its recovery came something like confidence again, and he turned
+about to learn how Tim Brophy was making out.
+
+It was just like the plucky fellow not to dash after his comrade, but to
+stand his ground, when the most experienced and the bravest hunter in
+the world would have lost no time in increasing the distance between him
+and the brute. The latter had scared Billy half to death, and his master
+meant to punish him therefor, so he held his ground, and managed to send
+in another shot while the grizzly was approaching, but which did no more
+to check his charge than a wad from a pop-gun.
+
+This reckless daring on the part of Tim would have brought disaster, but
+for an unexpected interference.
+
+Billy, the pony, no sooner saw the terrible brute turn his back upon him
+and lumber off, than he understood that the way of escape for him had
+opened. His panic departed like a flash, and he plunged through the
+opening with a snort of triumph; but his line of flight took him of
+necessity along that followed by the grizzly himself, who was advancing
+to the assault of the brave young Irishman.
+
+There may have been a feeling of wrathful resentment thrilling the
+nerves of the gallant pony, or it is not beyond belief that he
+understood the danger of his master. Be that as it may, he was no sooner
+beside the huge brute, who slightly turned his head on hearing the
+clatter of the hoofs, than he let drive with both hind feet, landing
+them with such terrific force against the iron ribs of the monster that
+he fell half upon his side, after being driven several feet beyond the
+path.
+
+"Good for you!" called the delighted Tim, "let him have another
+broadside, Billy, and we'll finish him----"
+
+The assault of the pony diverted the attention of the grizzly for a
+moment from the youth to the assailant. He was thoroughly roused, and
+made for the horse, who showed more sense than his master by dashing
+off at full speed. This being beyond the attainment of the bear, it may
+be said that Billy's escape was absolute.
+
+The sudden check in Tim's words was caused by bruin, who had passed but
+a few paces beyond the youth, when, seeing how useless it was to pursue
+the pony, he wheeled and once more charged upon the master.
+
+The moment had arrived for the young rancher to call his legs into
+service. He was willing to run when the necessity was apparent, and none
+could excel him as a sprinter--that is, none of his kind.
+
+He assuredly would have been overtaken before he could climb any of the
+bowlders or rocks, or get out of the path, had not a bullet bored its
+way directly through the brain of the grizzly, and brought him to earth
+at the moment when the life of the fugitive hung on a thread.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+STARCUS.
+
+
+Warren Starr was terrified for the moment by the peril of his companion.
+While running toward him he saw the grizzly rise partly on his haunches
+to seize Tim, who was within his grasp, but at that instant the brute
+toppled over, and with one or two struggles was dead.
+
+It was an exciting moment, but a singular discovery came to young
+Starr--the shot that slew the bear was fired neither by himself nor Tim!
+
+Without waiting to investigate, he dashed to where his panting friend
+was looking down at the fallen monster, as if uncertain what to do.
+
+"Gracious, Tim!" called Warren, as he came up, "that was the closest
+call you ever had."
+
+"It's qu'ar," replied the other, "that after we had pumped about a ton
+of lead into him without hurting the spalpeen, he should dhrop down from
+a single shot."
+
+"That's because it was aimed right."
+
+"But ye had no bitter chance than meself, nor what ye also was given a
+few minutes ago."
+
+"But it was not I, Tim, who fired the last shot."
+
+"What are ye talking about?" demanded the other. "I had no chance to
+shoot me rifle, and who ilse could have done the same?"
+
+"But I tell you I did not fire; I was about to do so, when someone else
+saved me the trouble; I am sure I couldn't have done any better than I
+did before."
+
+"Thin who was the mon?"
+
+The question naturally caused the couple to look around in quest of the
+unknown friend.
+
+They saw him at the first glance.
+
+"There he is! Look at him!" whispered Tim Brophy.
+
+Less than a hundred yards away stood an Indian warrior, calmly watching
+them. He had mounted a bowlder, so that his figure was brought out in
+clear relief. He was in Indian costume, most of it being hidden by a
+heavy blanket gathered around the shoulders, but the leggings and
+moccasons showed beneath, and the head was ornamented with stained
+eagle-feathers. The noticeable fact about him, however, was that his
+black hair was short, and the feathers were fixed in a sort of band,
+which clasped the forehead. The rather pleasing face was fantastically
+daubed with paint, and he held a fine rifle in his right hand, the other
+being concealed under his blanket.
+
+His action, or rather want of action, was striking. The bowlder which
+supported him was no more stationary than he. He gazed fixedly at the
+youths, but made no signs and uttered no word.
+
+"Begorra, but he's a shtrange gintleman," muttered Tim. "I wonder if
+he's posin' for his picter."
+
+"His firing of the gun proves that he is a friend," said Warren; "so we
+have nothing to fear from him."
+
+"If that's the case why doesn't he come forward and interdooce himself?
+whisht now!"
+
+What did the Irishman do but pucker up his mouth, whistle, and beckon to
+the Indian to approach. The latter, however, did not move a muscle.
+
+"Helloa!" called Warren; "we thank you for your kindness; won't you come
+forward and join us?"
+
+This appeal was as fruitless as the other.
+
+"If the copper gintleman won't come to us I'm going to him."
+
+It was just like Tim to start forward to carry out his intention, though
+a sense of delicacy restrained his companion from joining him. The
+Indian, however, nipped the little scheme in the bud.
+
+The Irishman had taken only two or three steps, when the Sioux, as he
+evidently was, turned about, leaped lightly down from the bowlder, and
+vanished.
+
+"Well, I'll be hanged!" exclaimed the disappointed Tim, stopping short;
+"ye may be a good rifle shot, but be the same token ye are not fond of
+selict company," and with a laugh he walked back to his friend, whose
+face was so grave as to attract the notice of the Irishman.
+
+"What's the matter, Warren?"
+
+"Do you know who that Indian is?"
+
+"I niver have saan him before."
+
+"Yes, you have, many a time; he's been at our house within the past few
+weeks."
+
+"Who is he?"
+
+"Starcus."
+
+"Git out!"
+
+"I'm not mistaken," insisted young Starr, compressing his lips and
+shaking his head. "He's painted and dressed like his people, but his
+short hair made me suspicious, and when he turned to jump down from the
+bowlder, he made a movement that fixed his identity beyond all doubt."
+
+"Wal, ye're so sartin about it that I can't help belaving ye; but if it
+was Starcus, why did he act that way? Why didn't he spake, and why
+didn't he coom forward and shake hands wid us?"
+
+"That's what troubles me; it wasn't like him. It makes me believe he has
+joined the hostiles."
+
+"But if that is the case why did he interfere whin the grizzly was about
+to chaw me up?"
+
+"His whole action was strange, but I explain it this way: He was
+prowling through this place, probably to help the bucks that are now on
+the warpath, when he heard our guns, made his way forward, and seeing
+the bear about to pounce upon you, he fired with the wish to save you.
+Your danger caused him to feel friendly toward us; for otherwise,
+instead of killing the bear he would have shot you and me."
+
+"Maybe he fired at me instead of the bear," suggested Tim, "and it was a
+chance shot that saved meself."
+
+"That cannot be, for he is too good a marksman to make such a miss. I
+have fired at a target with him and never saw a better shot than he.
+Then, too, when he found he missed, he could have turned his Winchester
+on us in turn and brought us both down."
+
+"And ye think after his doing us that kindness, he became an inimy
+agin?"
+
+"He has caught the craze that is setting his people wild, and though you
+didn't recognize him yesterday among that party of bucks near the house,
+I believe he was either there or was one of the horsemen that stampeded
+the cattle. He is with them body and soul. His last shot was given
+through impulse. Of course he knew us both, and acted from a generous
+motive. He may have stood there debating with himself whether to
+continue that friendship, when your advance scattered all his good
+resolutions to the winds. He has gone off to join the others, and when
+we meet again he will be our bitter foe, eager to serve us both as he
+served the grizzly. Let us not deceive ourselves about that."
+
+"There's one thing that looks well," remarked Tim a moment later; "if
+Starcus is wid the ither spalpeens, they haven't found your fayther and
+mither, for they're not in this part of the counthry."
+
+"That gives me relief," said Warren, with a glowing face; "the folks
+must be many miles away, and these people are off their track
+altogether. Father will waste no time, but push on. This snow is not
+deep enough to bother them, and they ought to be safely within Fort
+Meade by nightfall."
+
+"But what about us?" asked Tim significantly.
+
+"This isn't our right latitude. We must pull out as quickly as we can.
+Our ponies are fresh, and can travel as fast as any of the Indian ones.
+We haven't far to go to reach the open country, and then we'll head for
+the fort, unless we conclude to hunt for the folks before reaching
+there. In the meantime, Tim, I'm hungry enough to eat my shoes."
+
+"I'm wid ye there."
+
+"We shall have to wait here long enough to cook a steak from that bear.
+He seems to be in fine condition, and will give us a good meal."
+
+"There!" laughed the Irishman; "I knowed I had forgot something. Your
+mither give me a good, big lunch for us both whin I was laving
+yesterday, and it is in the residence beyant, onless yer pony ate up the
+same whin we warn't watching him."
+
+"Little fear of that," replied the pleased Warren. "It is hardly the
+sort of food that he fancies. Come on; let's have a good meal, and then
+we'll be off."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+ON THE BANK OF A STREAM.
+
+
+It need not be said that George Starr wasted no time. Halting only long
+enough to say a few words to Tim Brophy before he set out to warn the
+son of his danger, he resumed his journey toward Fort Meade, some thirty
+miles away, at the base of the Black Hills.
+
+He drew up beside the pony on which his wife sat with Dot in front. The
+pack-horse did not require leading, but as his load was lighter than
+either of the others, he kept his head at the haunch of the others, and
+plodded along as contentedly as they.
+
+Though the route to the post by means of the regular trail was longer,
+it was always used when safe, because it was easy travelling throughout
+its whole extent. The country before the husband and wife was varied.
+There were miles of open plain, over which they could ride at a gallop,
+while in other places, the rocky ridges, broken timber, and gullies
+compelled detours that were likely to render a two days' journey
+necessary.
+
+In addition to all this several streams must be crossed, and these were
+held in great dread, for if swimming became necessary, the plight of the
+little company, with the thermometer striking steadily below freezing
+point, would be pitiful indeed. The ranchman was resolved to save his
+wife and child from such an affliction, by constructing some kind of a
+raft, though the delay involved in such a work might solve the question
+of life and death.
+
+"I have never been over this route--that is, to any extent," he
+remarked, after they had ridden a short time on a brisk walk; "I have
+followed the cattle for some miles among the hills yonder, but, as you
+know, we always used the regular trail when going to the fort."
+
+"This is shorter," replied the wife, "because it is the most direct, and
+though there may be difficulties in the way, I am hopeful that we shall
+have no serious trouble."
+
+"I hope so, too, but if I am not mistaken, we must cross more than one
+stream, and if they happen to be deep, it will be no trifling matter.
+How do you feel, Dot?" he asked, looking fondly at the little one, whose
+head was about the only portion visible beneath the folds of the blanket
+wrapped about her.
+
+"I'm all right," replied the sweet voice, while the bright eyes twinkled
+happily, as though no thought of danger or sorrow had ever dimmed them.
+
+"How long do you think you can ride on the back of Sally?"
+
+"Just as long as she can carry me."
+
+"That's good," laughed the parent, who could not help reaching across
+from the saddle and pinching the chubby cheek; "I want to give you a
+good long ride, and we may keep it up after dark."
+
+"That don't make any difference to me, for I can sleep here as well as
+in my bed at home. Mamma will take care of me, won't you?" she asked,
+twisting her head about and looking up in the face of her parent.
+
+The latter leaned down and kissed her, murmuring:
+
+"Yes, with my life, precious one; but we are in the keeping of God, and
+he is always merciful and kind."
+
+"I know that," said the child thoughtfully, "for hasn't He given me the
+best parents in the world? Oh, look! papa and mamma!" she added, forcing
+her head farther out of its environments, and pointing to the top of the
+elevation they were approaching.
+
+The sight was a pretty one indeed. A noble buck had arrived first, from
+the other side of the ridge, and paused on the highest point. With his
+head erect, he looked down in wonderment at the party approaching him.
+He made a fine picture, with his antlers high in air and his whole form
+thrown in relief against the leaden sky beyond.
+
+"What a fine mark," said the rancher admiringly; "I never saw a larger
+buck."
+
+"You don't intend to shoot him?"
+
+"No; we have all the food we are likely to want, and the sound of the
+gun might be dangerous to us, when there's no saying that other of the
+Sioux are not in the neighborhood."
+
+"Isn't that too bad!"
+
+The regretful exclamation of Dot was caused by the disappearance of the
+animal. The steady advance of the party was more than the timid creature
+could face. He whirled about and was off like a flash, to the keen
+regret of Dot, who was hoping for a closer acquaintance. The parents
+smiled at the innocence of the little one, and assured her it would have
+to be caught and tamed before allowing any companionship from anyone.
+
+A few minutes later the friends rode to the top of the elevation,
+halting at the very spot where the buck had stood but a few minutes
+before.
+
+"Just what I feared!" exclaimed the rancher regretfully.
+
+As he spoke he pointed to the westward, where the gleam of water was
+seen, revealing a winding stream, which it was necessary to cross before
+continuing their journey.
+
+"It is not broad and may not be deep," remarked the wife.
+
+"That can be ascertained only by investigation."
+
+He halted long enough to take a sweeping survey of the country behind
+them. There might have been Indians watching, but, if so, he detected no
+signs of them. The little party were conspicuous objects, but it was an
+easy matter for anyone to keep out of sight of the keenest vision on the
+crest of the elevation.
+
+The stream that had caught his eye was about half a mile away, the
+intervening ground being a comparatively level and grassy plain, but
+beyond the water stretched a hilly and wooded section, which was likely
+to offer serious obstacles to their progress.
+
+"We shall have snow before night," remarked Mr. Starr, glancing up and
+around at the sky, "and if it amounts to much it will make more
+trouble."
+
+"Let us ride faster, then, while we may," said his wife, urging her pony
+into a gallop, which was instantly imitated by the other, though the
+gait was so distasteful to the pack-horse that he held back until
+sharply spoken to by his master. Finally all three struck a pace which
+speedily carried them to the stream that crossed their path.
+
+It seemed odd that while there was plenty of timber on the other side,
+even to the water's edge, not a stick was on the bank where the
+fugitives halted. If it should be found necessary to make a raft with
+which to cross, Mr. Starr might well ask himself where the material was
+to be procured, since he saw none within reach.
+
+The stream was less than a hundred yards wide and the current not swift.
+The water was roiled to that extent that the bottom could be seen only a
+few paces from shore, but the slope was so gradual that the rancher was
+hopeful that the horse would be able to wade it.
+
+He scanned the water and finally turned to his wife with a smile:
+
+"Where do you think we had better try it, Molly?"
+
+"I know of no way of learning the depth of water except by test," she
+replied; "if it were clearer, we could make use of our eyes."
+
+"I wonder if it is clearer up yonder," he remarked, looking at a clump
+of bushes above them and some rods in extent. "It strikes me that it may
+be; anyway, I will find out."
+
+Instead of riding to the spot he dismounted, and, rifle in hand, walked
+the short distance necessary. As he did so, naturally he gave more heed
+to the stream than to his footsteps, for it was the former in which his
+interest lay. Dot laughed merrily when he stumbled, and he looked about
+and shook his head in mock anger at her.
+
+The bushes he approached were no more than three or four feet in height,
+not very dense, and continued with straggling interruptions as far as
+the eye could trace the winding stream.
+
+Mrs. Starr, who was attentively watching her husband, saw him pause on
+reaching the stunted growth. He looked at the water and then at the
+bushes. Then he suddenly leaped back with an exclamation and came
+hastening to his wife, his white face and staring eyes showing that he
+had made a horrifying discovery.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+BENT ARM AND HIS BAND.
+
+
+George Starr was so agitated that, forgetting the presence of his little
+child, he impulsively spoke the truth, while yet a few paces away:
+
+"Plummer is in those bushes."
+
+"Is he----"
+
+Mrs. Starr hesitated with the dreadful word unuttered.
+
+"Yes; he is dead; killed by the Indians!"
+
+The wife gave a gasp, and the husband added:
+
+"The poor fellow lies stretched out, stark and stiff, where he was shot
+down by the Sioux. He must have been killed shortly after leaving the
+house."
+
+"Where is his horse?"
+
+"I suppose it has been stolen. It is a sad thing, but poor Plummer is
+with his Maker; it won't do for us to wait any longer; I don't
+understand how we have escaped thus far, for we are in greater danger
+than I had supposed. We must cross the stream without delay, even if we
+have to swim our horses."
+
+"I am ready," said Mrs. Starr calmly; "lead the way."
+
+"I hope it will not be necessary to subject you and Dot to the trial,
+but there is not a minute to spare."
+
+With his lips compressed, the rancher hastily remounted his pony and
+turned his head toward the water.
+
+"Let me keep in advance," he said, "and you can tell what to do."
+
+The obedient horse sniffed the water, but, without hesitation, stepped
+in, sinking to his knees within a yard of the bank.
+
+A rod farther the depth had not materially increased, and, turning his
+head, he signified to his wife to follow. She clasped Dot a little
+closer to her breast, spoke quietly to her animal, and he obeyed without
+faltering.
+
+The water steadily but slowly deepened, and when the middle of the
+stream was reached it was at the stirrups of the leader. He withdrew
+his feet and pushed on, the pony cautiously advancing, and the hope
+growing that the stream would be forded without trouble.
+
+A rod farther, and Mrs. Starr uttered a slight exclamation. She saw the
+steed of her husband suddenly sink, and thought he was going entirely
+under. But he did not, and, by a quick raising of his feet, the rider
+saved them from wetting. His animal still retained a firm foothold, and,
+quickly recovering, kept forward.
+
+Now the water began shallowing, and, with a relief beyond words, the
+rancher reached dry land without having suffered any inconvenience.
+
+"Thank Heaven!" he exclaimed, turning about and watching his wife, who
+guided her animal over the invisible trail until she was beside him on
+the hard earth. It required no little skill on her part, for when she
+withdrew her foot from her stirrup, and was obliged not only to hold her
+own poise, but to take care of Dot, her task became delicate and
+difficult. But the little one behaved like a heroine. She did not speak
+or stir, through fear of disturbing her parent, and was as relieved as
+both when the current was safely forded.
+
+"Are there any more like this?" asked the wife.
+
+"There are other streams, but whether they can be forded or not remains
+to be learned."
+
+The bank sloped upward to a height of a dozen feet, and beyond it
+declined nearly as much, and then stretched away in an open plain for
+more than a mile, before breaking into rough, rocky country, where they
+were quite sure to find greater obstructions confronting them than any
+yet encountered.
+
+"Oh, see there!" called out Dot.
+
+Flakes of scurrying snow were in the air, and her father supposed she
+referred to them.
+
+"Yes," he replied, "we shall have to ride for a while through a snow
+storm."
+
+"I know that, but it isn't what I mean; yonder is someone following us."
+
+Her position in the arms of her mother gave her opportunity to look back
+over the stream they had just crossed, while the attention of her
+parents was directed elsewhere.
+
+Her words caused both to glance behind them, where they witnessed a
+startling scene. A Sioux Indian, astride of a pony, had halted with the
+fore feet of the animal in the margin of the water. Directly behind him
+was a second horseman, advancing slowly, and immediately to the rear of
+him appeared a third, while the head and shoulders of a fourth were
+rising to view over the bank in the path of the others. And there was no
+saying how many others made up the procession, streaming toward the ford
+in the footsteps of the fugitives.
+
+"Molly," said Mr. Starr, in a low voice, "ride over the top of the hill
+as quickly as you can."
+
+"But what will you do?"
+
+"Never mind; obey me at once or we are lost."
+
+[Illustration: A HOT PURSUIT.]
+
+She obeyed without remonstrance, though her fear at that moment was more
+for her husband than for herself and child. She was quick-witted enough
+to jerk the reins sharply, so that her pony passed out of sight before
+the pursuers could suspect her purpose. But the moment she was behind
+the sheltering swell, she checked her horse and waited for her husband.
+
+The latter decided on his course of action the moment the peril broke
+upon him.
+
+He calmly confronted the advancing bucks and held himself ready to
+dispute their crossing. Unless he kept them in check and delayed the
+pursuit, nothing could save his family and himself.
+
+The foremost Sioux evidently was the leader. Starr recognized him,
+despite his paint, as a fellow who had visited his home on several
+occasions, and who was known as Bent Arm, because of a peculiar rigidity
+of the left arm, made by some wound received years before.
+
+While the white and red men sat on their ponies facing each other the
+remaining warriors continued coming into view until five of them were
+grouped behind the leader. There they sat--grim, silent, and
+watchful--leaving matters wholly in the hands of the one in front.
+
+The latter, observing the rancher at bay, called to him in fair
+English:
+
+"Wait dere--surrender--won't hurt."
+
+"Why do you ask me to surrender? We are not enemies," called back the
+white man.
+
+"Wait dere," repeated Bent Arm; "want to talk wid you."
+
+"We are talking now; stay where you are, and let me hear what you have
+to say."
+
+"We go over--we talk better dere."
+
+It was plain that the Sioux was not satisfied with the action of the
+rancher's wife. She and her child were beyond sight, and it looked as if
+the parley of her husband was meant to give her a chance to get beyond
+reach. Valuable time was passing, and unless they acted promptly, they
+would throw away an opportunity that would never come to them again.
+
+George Starr read their purpose as plainly as if they had announced it
+in so many words. Further talk was useless; the Sioux were bent on
+making him and his family prisoners, and little mercy would be shown
+them. He knew the dear ones were but a few paces away, and his wife
+would never leave the spot so long as he was in danger.
+
+The words had hardly fallen from the lips of Bent Arm when his pony
+began stepping farther into the water, while his companions closed in
+behind him.
+
+Striking his heels sharply against the sides of his horse as the rancher
+drew his head about, he sent the animal over the swell in a couple of
+bounds beyond reach of any shots that might be sent after him. He
+wondered a little that the Indians had not announced their presence by a
+volley that would have brought him from the saddle, but rightly judged
+the reason to be that they preferred to make the little party prisoners,
+considering them as good as already secured.
+
+"Stay where you are!" he called to his wondering wife. "I am going to
+make a fight with them. Our only hope is in keeping them back until it
+is dark."
+
+He was out of the saddle while speaking, and, dropping on his hands and
+knees, crawled up the swell and looked over.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+AT BAY.
+
+
+George Starr's pony, left to himself, wandered off to the side of the
+other one, on which sat Mrs. Starr, with Dot. The latter reached out her
+chubby hand and patted the silken nose of the intelligent horse, who
+liked the caress. The mother was too agitated to notice this by-play,
+but kept watch for her husband.
+
+The latter crept to within a foot or two of the top of the swell, when
+he quickly but cautiously raised his head and peered over at the Sioux.
+
+But a minute or two had passed since exchanging words with Bent Arm, but
+that brief period was improved as much by one party as the other. The
+Sioux leader's horse was in the stream to the depth of his knees, and
+the second Indian was in the act of entering, with the others close
+behind him.
+
+It was no time for hesitation, for that meant death. Starr shoved his
+Winchester in front, so that the muzzle projected over the swell, took
+deliberate aim at Bent Arm, and let fly.
+
+The distance was short, the rancher was an excellent marksman, and the
+bullet bored its way through the breast of the painted miscreant, who
+hardly knew what hurt him. With a screech, he threw up his arms, one
+grasping his gun, and toppled from the back of his pony, falling with a
+loud splash into the water, where for the moment he disappeared under
+the surface.
+
+George Starr was never cooler in his life. He was fighting not only for
+his own existence, but for those who were dearer to him than that
+existence. He knew the mercilessness of the red men near at hand, and he
+was equally merciless to them.
+
+This proceeding, as may be supposed, caused consternation for a moment
+among the advancing Sioux. The warrior immediately behind the leader
+stopped his pony abruptly, stared at the tuft of grass above which the
+faint puff of smoke was curling; and then, fearful of a second shot
+aimed at himself, whirled his animal about and sent him at one bound up
+the bank of the stream, where his companions, no less dismayed than he,
+threw themselves forward on the backs of their horses, to shield
+themselves from the aim of the rancher.
+
+It was at this crisis that George Starr committed two blunders which
+threatened the very doom he was trying to escape. One of those errors,
+however, did credit to his heart, if not to his head.
+
+Having opened the ball, he should have pushed things unmercifully. He
+was well aware of the venom of those red men, and, with his magazine
+rifle at command, he ought to have kept up an unremitting fire until he
+had tumbled several more to the ground, and driven the survivors beyond
+sight and the power of harm. It was his reluctance to perpetrate such
+slaughter, and the weak hope that he had already accomplished that
+result, that stayed his hand, at the moment when he should have steeled
+his feelings against sympathy. The other equally serious mistake was in
+staying where he was, prone on the ground, with a watchful eye on the
+marauders. He saw, when it was too late, that he should have dashed back
+to his pony, and leaped into the saddle and ridden with his wife, in all
+haste, for the refuge a mile away. Whether that would have proven a
+refuge or not was uncertain, but with the check given the Sioux he would
+have secured a start that promised everything.
+
+Night was approaching, and, in the gathering gloom, it ought not to have
+been difficult, with the advantage named, to throw his pursuers off the
+trail. But he tarried until the chance was irrevocably gone.
+
+The Sioux proved on more than one occasion, during their recent troubles
+in the West, that they were capable of daring, coolness, and heroism,
+and are quick to recover from a panic. When driven to bay they will
+fight like wild-cats, and the bleaching bones of many a brave soldier
+and officer bear eloquent witness to these qualities on their part.
+
+Instead of breaking into a wild flight beyond the sheltering bank on the
+other side of the stream, as the rancher expected them to do, they held
+their places on the backs of their ponies, and, leaning over so as to
+protect themselves, returned the fire of the white man.
+
+Looking across the narrow stream, they saw the slouch hat rising in the
+short grass, just behind the projecting muzzle of the Winchester, and a
+couple of them aimed and fired.
+
+But the rancher was too alert to be caught in that fashion. The moment
+he observed the action of the red men, he dropped his head behind the
+swell of earth, and the bullets clipped the grass and scattered the dirt
+harmlessly within a few inches of his crown.
+
+"Be careful!" called the anxious wife, who read the meaning of the
+flying soil; "they will hit you."
+
+"Have no fear of me," replied the husband, without looking around; "I am
+all right; keep back where you are and hold yourself ready to ride as
+fast as you can when I give the word."
+
+The rancher now did that which he should have done in the first place:
+he doffed his hat and laid it on the ground beside him. It was too
+conspicuous under the circumstances, and the Sioux were on the watch for
+it.
+
+Waiting several minutes after the firing of the two shots, he stealthily
+raised his head high enough to look through the grass in front. An
+astonishing sight rewarded him.
+
+In the brief interval that had passed after firing his rifle, the five
+Indians had dashed over the swell with their ponies where the latter
+were out of sight, and, flinging themselves on the ground, took
+precisely the same position as his own. They were now as safe from harm
+as himself. The duel was one of vigilance, caution, skill, and
+watchfulness, with the chances against the white man.
+
+The keen gaze of the latter, wandering over the surface of the stream,
+detected a dark object some distance to the right, as it showed
+indistinctly on the surface, disappearing, and then slowly coming to
+view again farther down. He required no one to tell him that it was the
+victim of his marksmanship, drifting out of sight, as many a one had
+done before, when trying to stay the advancing tide of the hated
+Caucasian.
+
+It struck the rancher that it would be well to let the Sioux know that
+he was still on guard. He caught glimpses here and there of the upper
+part of a repulsive face, with its long black hair and serpent-like
+eyes, on the alert to catch him unawares, and he fired at the nearest.
+
+The aim was good, but there was no reason to believe that he had
+inflicted harm, though he must have come nigh it.
+
+Strange it is that in the most trying moments, when it would seem that a
+trifling thought should be impossible on the part of a person, he
+sometimes gives way to a fancy that is of that nature. Recalling the
+story which he had read when a boy, and which is familiar to all our
+readers, the rancher now picked up his hat at his side and gently raised
+it to view, taking care to lower his own head beyond reach of harm.
+
+Instantly a couple of rifles cracked from the other side of the stream,
+and he smiled grimly when he saw the marks of the bullets in the crown.
+
+"They shoot well," he said, turning his face toward his wife and
+holding up the hat, "but they made a slight mistake that time."
+
+If the Sioux supposed that the last shots were fatal, they were likely
+to repeat their attempt to cross. That would never do, and, more with a
+view of letting them know no harm had resulted, than in the hope of
+inflicting injury, the rancher took aim at what seemed to be the
+forehead of one of the warriors, a short distance up stream, and fired.
+
+To his amazement, the wild screech left no doubt that the shot was
+fatal. The bullet had bored its way through the bronzed skull of the
+miscreant, and the force of assaulting Sioux was now reduced by
+one-third.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+FACING WESTWARD.
+
+
+The rancher was astonished beyond measure at the success of his shot. He
+had looked for nothing of the kind, but there could be no mistake as to
+the result; there was nothing to be gained by any pretence on the part
+of the Sioux. He certainly was as dead as dead could be.
+
+How he longed, like a certain famous general, for the coming of night! A
+little more darkness and he would flee with his wife and child under its
+friendly cover, and place a safe distance between them and their
+enemies, before the latter could learn of their flight.
+
+Several minutes passed without a demonstration on either side, but while
+matters stood thus, a new danger presented itself to the rancher. Why
+should the Sioux stay where they were? What was to prevent them moving
+farther up or down the bank, under the screen it afforded, and crossing
+unobserved? The winding course of the current gave every chance of doing
+this, and surely they were not likely to forget such an obvious course.
+
+The thought had hardly presented itself to the watcher when that very
+thing was attempted. The one who essayed it, however, forgot the caution
+he should have remembered.
+
+The slowly settling night and the falling snow may have misled him, but
+when the warrior rode his pony into the stream at a point considerably
+above, Starr observed him at the moment he began descending the bank.
+
+This was something that must be nipped in the bud. He shifted his
+position to where the grass gave slightly better protection, and sighted
+with the utmost care and deliberation.
+
+The shot was successful, but not precisely as he counted upon. The
+bullet, instead of striking the rider, pierced the brain of the pony,
+who reared frantically, plunged forward on his knees, and rolled upon
+his side, the Sioux dexterously saving himself by leaping away and
+scurrying behind the swell before the white man could fire a second
+time.
+
+"If they try it at that point, they will do so at some other," was the
+conclusion of the rancher, turning his gaze down stream. But the current
+made such a sharp bend near at hand, that his view was shortened, and
+the effort could be successfully made without detection on his part.
+
+An unexpected diversion occurred at this moment. The pack-horse, that
+had been contentedly cropping the grass near at hand and paying no heed
+to what was going on about him, wandered toward the bank, and was in
+imminent peril of being shot by the vigilant Sioux before he could be
+turned away.
+
+Mrs. Starr called sharply to him, and her voice caused the prostrate
+husband to look around. The pony at that moment was ascending the swell,
+to go down on the other side to the water, where he would have been in
+plain sight of the red men.
+
+Fearful that words would not check him, the rancher sprang up and,
+bending his head to save himself from his foes, ran the few steps
+necessary to reach the animal. Catching hold of his bridle, he jerked
+his head in the opposite direction, and, to teach him prudence,
+delivered a vigorous kick. The startled animal headed toward the west
+and broke into a gallop straight across the plain.
+
+"Let him go," said the impatient owner, looking after him: "he is too
+lazy to travel far, and we'll follow him soon."
+
+"Why not do so now?" asked his wife.
+
+"I fear that they are looking for such a move, and will be across before
+we can gain sufficient start."
+
+"But they may do so now."
+
+"Am I not watching them?" asked the husband, beginning to creep up the
+swell again, but pausing before he was high enough to discern the other
+side.
+
+"They may cross above or below, where you cannot see them," remarked the
+wife, giving utterance to the very fear that had troubled him some
+minutes before.
+
+"They may do so, but I have just defeated such an attempt, and they will
+probably wait a while before repeating it."
+
+"Then we can have no more favorable time to leave them than now."
+
+"Such would be the fact, if I only knew of a surety that they would wait
+a while."
+
+"I am afraid you are making a mistake, George."
+
+"It may be, but my judgment is against what you propose. Suppose that,
+at the moment of starting, they should appear on this side; they would
+run us down within a few hundred yards."
+
+"Are not our ponies as fleet as theirs?"
+
+"Probably; but with Dot to look after, you would have more than your
+hands full, and nothing could save us."
+
+"I could manage her very well; but do as you think best. We can only
+pray to Heaven to protect us all."
+
+Looking to the westward, the rancher saw the pack-pony just vanishing
+from sight in the gloom. Brief as was the time that he had left the
+Sioux without watching, he felt that it had been too long, and he now
+made his way up the swell until he could peer over at the other bank,
+where the red men were awaiting the very chance he gave them that
+moment.
+
+The narrowest escape of his life followed. Providentially, his first
+glance was directed at the precise spot where a crouching Sioux made a
+slight movement with his rifle, which gave the white man an instant's
+warning of his peril. He ducked his head, and had he not instinctively
+closed his eyes, would have been blinded by the dust and snow thrown
+against his face, as the leaden ball whizzed through the air, falling on
+the prairie a long distance away.
+
+In its flight it passed directly over the heads of the wife and child,
+who noticed the peculiar whistling sound a few feet above them. But they
+were as safe from such danger as if a mile away. The swell of the bank
+would not allow any missile to come nigh enough to harm them.
+
+"Don't be frightened," he said, with a reassuring smile, "they can't
+touch you as long as they are on the other side."
+
+"But how long will they stay there?" asked the wife, unable to repress
+her uneasiness over the tardiness of her husband.
+
+"Molly," said he, stirred by a sudden thought, "why not ride after the
+pack-horse?"
+
+"And leave you here?" was the astonished question.
+
+"Only for a few minutes; you will gain a good start, and it won't take
+me long to come up with you. I can put my pony on a run, and we shall
+gain invaluable time."
+
+But this was asking more than the obedient wife was willing to grant. No
+possible circumstances could justify her in deserting her husband. If he
+fell, she had no wish to escape.
+
+Dot, who had held her peace so long, now spoke:
+
+"Papa, don't ask us to leave you, 'cause we don't want to. I asked mamma
+to let me go to you, but she says no."
+
+Tears filled the eyes of the father, and his voice trembled as he said:
+
+"Very well, little one; stay with your mamma, and when the time comes
+for us to start we will go together."
+
+"But why don't you go now?" persisted the child, taking her cue,
+perhaps, from the words her mother had spoken.
+
+"I will not keep you waiting long," he assured her, more affected by the
+question of the child than by the arguments of her mother.
+
+Shifting the point of observation, the rancher raised his head just
+enough, cautiously parting the grass in front, to permit him to see the
+other bank, becoming more dimly visible in the falling snow and
+gathering gloom.
+
+He scanned the points whence had come the shots, but could discover
+nothing of his enemies. They might be there, but if so they were
+invisible, as could readily be the case; but, somehow or other, the
+conviction grew upon him that they were moving, and that to postpone his
+departure longer was to invite the worst fate imaginable for himself and
+dear ones.
+
+"We cannot leave too soon," he exclaimed, hastening to carry out the
+purpose that never ought to have been delayed so long.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+IN THE FRINGE OF THE WOODS.
+
+
+Fully realizing the mistake he had made in waiting, the rancher now did
+his best to improve the precious time at his disposal.
+
+His own pony had remained obediently near his companion, while the brush
+was going on between his master and the Sioux on the other side of the
+stream. The former hastily climbed into the saddle, and taking the reins
+in hand, looked at his wife.
+
+"Are you ready, Molly?"
+
+"I have been for a long time."
+
+"Come on; keep close to me."
+
+He spoke briskly to his horse, who broke into a swift gallop, which was
+imitated so promptly by the other that the couple advanced abreast
+toward the wooded section. It was no time for conversation, and the
+progress continued in silence.
+
+The snow was now falling thick and fast, and the gloom had deepened to
+that extent that they could not see objects more than a hundred feet
+away. Both wife and husband continually glanced behind them, for they
+were almost certain that the red men were in the act of crossing the
+stream at the moment the start was made, and could not be far to the
+rear.
+
+True, the fugitives had much in their favor. The keen eyes of the
+pursuers could detect their trail in the snowy ground, but not for long.
+By and by they might trace it only by dropping down from their ponies
+and using the sense of feeling. This would compel them to proceed
+carefully, and hold them well to the rear while the whites were using
+the occasion to the utmost, and continually gaining ground. Had the
+route to Fort Meade been level and unobstructed, they could have asked
+nothing more favorable. They would have forced their ponies to the
+utmost, and by the time the sun rose the vengeful red men would be
+placed hopelessly behind.
+
+The straining vision saw nothing but the darkness and snow in the
+direction of the stream already crossed, but they could never feel
+relieved of the dreadful fear until safely within the military post of
+the Black Hills.
+
+"Oh, papa, I see a horse!" was the startling exclamation of Dot, whom
+her mother had supposed, because of her stillness and immobility, to be
+asleep.
+
+"Where?" demanded her father, grasping his Winchester and looking
+affrightedly around.
+
+"Not there," replied the child with a laugh, working her arm out of its
+environments, and pointing ahead.
+
+A solitary animal was observed standing as motionless as a statue a
+short distance in advance. Apprehensive of some trap by the Indians, the
+father brought his pony to a sudden stop, his wife instantly imitating
+him, and both peered ahead at the strange form.
+
+They could see no rider, though there was something on the animal's
+back, which might have been a warrior lying flat, so as to protect his
+body from the rifle of the white man, or, what was equally probable, the
+owner was standing on the ground hidden by the horse, and awaiting his
+chance to send in a fatal shot.
+
+"What's the matter?" asked Dot, puzzled by the action of her parents.
+
+"S-h! We are afraid a bad Indian is there."
+
+"Why, can't you see that's Jerry?"
+
+Jerry was the name of the pack pony.
+
+"Of course it is. Why didn't we think of it?" asked the father the next
+moment, relieved beyond measure by the discovery.
+
+Jerry seemed to be of the opinion that it was the place of his friends
+to make the advances, for he did not stir until they rode up beside him.
+
+The lazy fellow was found with his load intact. He had been given all
+the time he could ask for his journey to this point, and evidently was a
+little sulky over the treatment received at the hands, or rather the
+foot, of his master, for his head had to be jerked several times before
+he faced about, and then it required more vigorous treatment to force
+him into a lazy gallop.
+
+Luckily, the greater part of the plain had been crossed before this
+reunion took place, and the party had not gone far when the rancher
+allowed the animals to drop to a walk. In front loomed a dark mass,
+which he recognized as the fringe of the wood observed from the bank of
+the stream behind them. Through this it was necessary to thread their
+way with extreme care, owing to the darkness and their unfamiliarity
+with the ground.
+
+Upon reaching the edge of the wood the fugitives came to a stand-still.
+
+Slipping from his saddle, the rancher brushed away the snow at his feet
+and pressed his ear against the ground.
+
+"I can hear nothing of them," he remarked, resuming the upright posture;
+"I am quite hopeful that that party will molest us no more."
+
+"It won't do to count on it," were the wise words of his wife.
+
+"I think you had better dismount and lead your pony," said the rancher;
+"we can mount again when through the wood; there will be less danger
+from the trees and limbs, and you and Dot must be cramped from sitting
+so long."
+
+He helped them to the ground. It was a relief indeed to both, for they
+had kept their places on the back of the horse for a number of hours.
+Dot yawned, stretched her limbs, and felt as though nothing would
+delight her so much as a frolic in the snow. The thoughtful mother had
+provided her not only with thick, strong shoes, but with heavy
+stockings, leggings, and warm clothing, with which she was well
+protected against the storm that was impending when they left their
+home.
+
+Nothing could have better shown the childish innocence of her nature
+than her action in slyly removing her mittens, stooping down, packing a
+wad of snow with her hands and flinging it against her father's face,
+with a merry laugh.
+
+"Gracious, Dot! how you startled me!" he said, looking around at her.
+
+"Did I hurt you?"
+
+"No; but don't speak or laugh so loud, for some of the bad Indians may
+be near."
+
+"I forgot about that, but I'm going to hit Jerry, for he is so lazy he
+needs it."
+
+And the indolent animal received a tiny whack from the snowy missile
+projected by the chubby hand of the child. He seemed to think, however,
+that it was no more than a snowflake, for he did not give even an extra
+wink of the eye.
+
+The delay was only momentary, when the rancher, with one hand grasping
+the bridle-rein and the other parting the limbs and bushes in front,
+began groping his way through the growth of timber, where it was so dark
+that everyone's eyes were practically useless.
+
+Directly behind the horse walked Dot, with her mother next, leading her
+pony, and the pack-horse bringing up the rear.
+
+Ten minutes of this cautious progress and the leader checked himself
+with an impatient expression.
+
+"What is it?" called the wife, in a guarded voice.
+
+"Another stream of water."
+
+"Do you know anything about it?"
+
+"Nothing; I came near tumbling into it, with Dick on top of me; if he
+hadn't scented it first I would have done so."
+
+"What is to be done?" asked Mrs. Starr, as grievously disappointed as
+her husband.
+
+"I'm blessed if I know; it may be half a mile deep and ten miles across,
+with a perpendicular bluff a thousand feet high on the other side."
+
+Leaving her pony, the wife took the hand of Dot and joined him where he
+had halted on the edge of the unknown stream.
+
+"I've made up my mind that we shall do one thing right away," he
+remarked decisively.
+
+"What's that?"
+
+"Eat supper while we have the chance; Jerry is on hand with the
+provisions, and he may be somewhere else in the morning."
+
+"I'm glad of that," said the happy Dot, "for I'm awfuller hungry than I
+ever was in all my life."
+
+"Then supper it is."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+TURNED BACK.
+
+
+It was a wise proceeding on the part of the rancher. The opportunity to
+make a substantial repast was theirs, and as he had remarked, there was
+no certainty when it would come again.
+
+The bag in which the provisions were placed was taken from the back of
+Jerry, and the father helped his child and wife, who ate until they were
+fully satisfied. He dipped up water with Dot's small tin cup from the
+stream in front, and with it their thirst was slaked.
+
+"Molly," he suggested, "you can carry one or two of the sandwiches
+without inconvenience."
+
+"Yes."
+
+"Let us both do so; we may lose Jerry, and if so, they will come in
+handy."
+
+"I have a couple, too," said Dot.
+
+"It isn't best that you should burden yourself with them."
+
+"But I can't help it, papa."
+
+"How is that?"
+
+"They're inside of me," and the parents, even in their great dread,
+smiled at the odd conceit of the little one, who chuckled softly to
+think how she had "fooled" her papa.
+
+The delay was brief. The rancher knew that it was impossible to reach
+Fort Meade without crossing the stream before them, with the probability
+that still others awaited them at no great distance. It can be
+understood with what depth of dread he contemplated swimming the animals
+over, with the certainty of the saturation of all their garments, on
+this winter night, and the cold steadily increasing.
+
+In short, it meant perishing, unless a fire was kindled, in which case,
+a delay would be necessitated that would throw away all the advantage
+secured by flight. He was determined not to do it, unless actually
+driven to it as a last resource.
+
+He did not forget that he was now where there was an abundance of
+material with which a raft could be constructed that would obviate this
+exposure, but the building of such a rude craft, under the
+circumstances, was next to impossible. He had no implement except his
+pocket knife, and might grope about in the darkness for hours without
+getting together enough timber to float them to the other side.
+
+Obviously one of two things must be done--try to cross where they were
+or follow the bank down until a fording place could be found, and
+repeated trials were likely to be necessary before success was
+obtainable.
+
+Singular it is that so often out of the mouths of babes are heard the
+words of wisdom.
+
+The rancher had risen to his feet, and was in the act of mounting his
+pony to enter the water, when Dot spoke:
+
+"Why don't you let Dick go ahead and you ride behind on Sally?"
+
+"Well, I declare!" exclaimed the father admiringly; "I begin to believe
+that if we reach the fort, it will be through your guidance, my precious
+little one," and, stooping over, he kissed her cheek.
+
+"Strange that we did not think of that," remarked the mother. "Dot is
+wise beyond her years."
+
+The plan was adopted at once.
+
+The mare ridden by the mother and child, and the horse of the father,
+were so intelligent that no risk was involved in the essay, which
+insured against the immersion held in such natural dread.
+
+The saddle and trappings were removed from Dick, while the rancher
+mounted upon the side-saddle belonging to his wife. Then the horse was
+ordered to enter the water, and, with some hesitation, he obeyed, his
+owner being but a step or two behind on the mare.
+
+The gloom was so deep that the hearing, and not the sight, must be
+depended upon. That, however, was reliable when nothing was likely to
+occur to divert it from its duty.
+
+The stream was no more than fairly entered when the rancher made two
+unwelcome discoveries: The current was much stronger than he had
+anticipated, and the water deepened rapidly. Ten feet from shore it
+touched the body of the mare.
+
+Inasmuch, however, as Dick was still walking, there was hope that the
+depth might increase no more, or, at most, not to a dangerous extent.
+
+Mr. Starr could not see his own horse, but he plainly heard him as he
+advanced cautiously, feeling his way, and showing by his sniffing that
+the task was anything but pleasant to him. Not knowing the width of the
+stream, it was impossible to tell in what portion of it they were: but
+he was already listening for the sounds which would show that his animal
+was climbing out on the other side, when the very thing he feared took
+place.
+
+A loud splash, followed by a peculiar rustling noise, showed that Dick
+was swimming.
+
+At the same moment the mare sank so deeply that, had not the rider
+thrown his feet backward along her spine, with his body extended over
+the saddle and her neck, he would have been saturated to the knees. As
+it was, Sally was within a hair of being carried off her feet by the
+force of the current.
+
+The rancher drew her head around, and, after a sharp struggle, she held
+her own, and began laboring back to the shore she had left; putting
+forth such vigor that it was plain the task was far more agreeable than
+the one upon which she first ventured.
+
+Meanwhile, Dick was swimming powerfully for the farther bank, and before
+his owner could think of calling to him, owing to his own flurry, he
+heard his hoofs stamp the hard earth. True, he had landed, but that
+brief space of deep water was as bad as if its width were ten times as
+great; it could not be passed without the saturation of the garments of
+all, and that, as has been said, was not to be endured.
+
+Before the mare could return Mr. Starr called to his pony, and the
+animal promptly obeyed, emerging only a minute after the mare from the
+point where he had entered.
+
+"It's no use," he said to his waiting wife and little one; "there is one
+place where the horses must swim."
+
+"Did you get wet, papa?" enquired Dot, solicitous for his welfare.
+
+"No; but I came mighty near it."
+
+"Then I suppose we must follow down the stream, and try it elsewhere,"
+said the wife.
+
+"Yes, with the discouraging fact that we are likely to pass a dozen
+fordable points, and strike a place that is deeper than anywhere else."
+
+The saddles were readjusted, and the move made without delay. Since it
+was hard to thread their way through the wood, which lined the stream
+only a short distance from the water, they withdrew from it to the
+prairie, where travelling was easier.
+
+Reaching the open plain, but keeping close to the margin of the timber,
+from which, fortunately, they had emerged at a point considerably
+removed from that of the entrance, the rancher repeated the precaution
+he had used before.
+
+"Wait a moment," he said, in a low voice.
+
+Once more the snow was brushed aside at his feet and the ear pressed
+against the ground.
+
+To his dismay he heard the tramp of horses' hoofs on the hard earth.
+
+"They are near at hand!" he said, in a startled whisper; "we must get
+away as quickly as we can."
+
+He hastily helped his wife and little one on the back of the mare,
+mounted his own animal, and, with the pack-horse at the rear, moved
+along the timber on a rapid walk, continually peering off in the gloom,
+as though it was possible for him to see the Sioux, who certainly were
+at no great distance.
+
+One fear troubled him: Suppose they should resort to the same artifice
+as he, and one of them appeal to the earth for evidence. He would be
+equally quick to discover the proximity of the fugitives, and with his
+sense of hearing trained to the finest point by many years' exercise,
+would locate the whites with unerring precision.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+MISSING.
+
+
+But there was no avoiding the risk. In silence the little party threaded
+their way along the margin of the prairie, listening for the sounds they
+dreaded to hear, and peering through the gloom for the forms they held
+in unspeakable fear. Not until they had progressed several hundred yards
+can it be said that the rancher breathed freely. Then he checked his
+pony, and those behind him did the same.
+
+The next instant he was out of the saddle, with his ear once more
+against the cold earth.
+
+Not the slightest sound reached him through this better conductor. If
+the Sioux horsemen were moving, they were too far off for the fact to be
+known. When first heard, they must have been close to the wood, on
+reaching which they undoubtedly dismounted and advanced on foot.
+
+In that event, they must detect the footprints of the ponies in advance,
+and with their skill in trailing were certain to learn of the course
+taken by the whites. Then the pursuit would be resumed in earnest, and
+the perils would increase.
+
+One possible remedy suggested itself, though there was no certainty of
+its success. The snow was now falling so fast that it promised to
+obliterate the footprints to that extent that they could not be followed
+in the dark. As it was, even the lynx eyes of the Sioux could avail them
+nothing. One of their number must be continually dismounting and using
+his hands to make sure they were not off the track. A half hour or more
+interval, and this resource would be taken from them by the descending
+snow.
+
+It was this belief which caused the rancher to ride Dick among the
+trees, where he and the rest dismounted. Then they groped forward with
+no little difficulty for some rods and halted.
+
+"Be careful," he said, speaking particularly to Dot, "and do not make
+any noise, for I believe those bad Indians are not far off, and they
+are looking for us."
+
+Dot showed her obedience by not venturing to whisper.
+
+It was not Mr. Starr's purpose to lose time by staying where they were.
+Accordingly, after threading their way for some distance farther, he
+emerged once more on the plain, and, as they remounted, rode straight
+away from the timber.
+
+The object of this stratagem can be readily understood. The pursuing
+Sioux, after discovering that the trail of the fugitives led along the
+margin of the wood, were likely to override it for some way, before
+learning the fact. Then they would turn about and hunt until they found
+it again. The fact that at that point it entered the timber must cause
+another delay, where the difficulty of tracing the whites would be
+greatly increased. By the time they came back again to the open plain,
+the fall of snow was likely to render further pursuit almost, if not
+quite, impossible.
+
+This was the theory which guided the rancher's actions, though he was
+too wise to lose sight of the probability of serious miscalculations on
+his part. There was another danger, however, of which he failed to
+think, but which was not long in manifesting itself.
+
+By shifting his course so often, and leaving the stream altogether, he
+was sure to lose his bearings in the darkness. Instead of following the
+most direct route to Fort Meade, he was liable to turn back on his old
+trail, with the result that when the sun rose in the morning he would be
+in the vicinity of his home, with the environing perils more threatening
+than ever.
+
+Beyond all question this would have been the result had not nature come
+to his help. He was on the point of turning his pony's head around, to
+re-enter the timber he had left, when he discovered to his astonishment
+that he had already reached it. There were the trees directly in front,
+with the nose of Dick almost touching a projecting limb.
+
+He was at a loss to understand it until his wife suggested that the
+winding course of the stream was responsible for the situation. Even
+then he hardly believed until investigation convinced him that it was
+the same swift current flowing in front.
+
+"We unconsciously strayed from a direct course, and must have been going
+at right angles to the correct one."
+
+"There is no saying, George; only I advise you not to make too many
+experiments in the darkness. Several hours have passed since night came,
+and we are not making much progress toward the fort."
+
+"You are quite right," was the nervous response, "but safety seemed to
+demand it. How are you standing it, Dot?"
+
+The child made no answer.
+
+"She is asleep," whispered the mother.
+
+"I hope that it may last until morning. If you are tired of holding her
+in your arms I will take her."
+
+"When I grow weary of that," was the significant reply of the wife, "I
+will let you know."
+
+Inasmuch as the continually obtruding stream must be crossed, and the
+precious hours were fast passing, the rancher gave every energy to
+surmounting the difficulty.
+
+As he led the way once more to the edge of the water, he asked himself
+whether the wisest course was not to construct a raft. The work promised
+to be so difficult, however, that he would have abandoned the thought
+had he not come upon a heavy log, lying half submerged at the very spot
+where he struck the water.
+
+"This will be of great help," he said to his wife.
+
+Leaning his Winchester against the nearest tree, he drew out his rubber
+safe and struck a match. The appearance of the log was encouraging, and
+after some lifting and tugging he succeeded in rolling it into the
+stream.
+
+That ended the matter. To his chagrin, the water-soaked wood sank like
+so much mud.
+
+"We won't experiment any longer," concluded the disappointed rancher;
+"but try the same thing as before."
+
+Dick was stripped again and put in the lead, with his master following
+on the back of the mare. Mrs. Starr, being helped to the ground, stood
+with the sleeping Dot in her arms, awaiting the return of her husband
+from his disagreeable experiment.
+
+"Heaven grant that this maybe the right place," was his prayer, as he
+entered upon the second essay; "if we are turned back again I shall be
+in despair."
+
+His interest was intensified, for he was impressed with the belief that
+this was to be the decisive and final test.
+
+As if Dick, too, felt the seriousness of the situation, he stepped
+resolutely forward, bracing himself against the strong current which was
+heard washing about his limbs. It seemed to the anxious rancher that he
+could discern the figure of his pony as he led the way through the
+gloom, only a short distance in advance of the mare.
+
+When certain that they were fully half-way across, his heart began to
+beat with hope at finding that the water did not touch the stirrup in
+which one foot rested. It was plain also that the leading horse was
+still firmly wading.
+
+With a relief which possibly may be imagined, the horseman heard Dick
+step out on the bank a few minutes later. He had waded the whole
+distance, thus proving that the stream was easily fordable at that
+point.
+
+The delighted rancher could hardly repress a cheer. But for his fear
+that the Sioux might be in the vicinity, he would have announced the
+joyous fact to his wife.
+
+"Perhaps, however, her sharp ears have told her the truth," was his
+thought, as he wheeled the mare about and started to return, leaving
+Dick to follow him, as he would be needed to help the party over.
+
+With never a thought of danger, the animal was forced hastily through
+the water, coming out a few paces below where she had entered it.
+
+"We are all right," he called; "we will be over in a jiffy."
+
+To his astonishment there was no response. He pronounced his wife's
+name, but still no reply came. Then he moved up and down the bank,
+stirred by an awful fear, but heard and found her not.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+A THIEF OF THE NIGHT.
+
+
+When the rancher entered the current with the two ponies, the interest
+of the wife, who remained behind with little Dot, was centred wholly in
+his effort to ford the stream. She stood on the very margin of the
+water, where, though unable to see the form of the rider or either of
+the animals, she could hear the sound made by them in passing through
+the current.
+
+In this position, the pack-pony remained a few steps behind her and
+about half-way to the open plain. The child, who had been somewhat
+disturbed by the shifting about of herself, had fallen asleep again and
+rested motionless in her arms, with her form nestling in the protecting
+blanket.
+
+Everything was silent except the slight noise caused by the animals in
+the water. In this position, with her nerves strung to the highest
+point, and her faculties absorbed in the single one of hearing, she
+caught a suspicious sound immediately behind her. It was as if Jerry was
+moving from the spot where he had been left.
+
+Fearful of his going astray, her lips parted to speak, when,
+fortunately, she held her peace. It might be that some person was the
+cause of his action.
+
+With the purpose of learning the truth, she stole through the timber
+toward the spot where he was standing a few minutes before. She was so
+close behind him, and moved so much faster, that she reached the open
+plain almost on his heels. Despite the gloom, she could make out his
+figure; and her feelings may be imagined when she distinguished the form
+of a Sioux warrior leading him.
+
+Not only that, but the thief paused as soon as the open prairie was
+reached and lightly vaulted upon his back, beside the load already
+resting there. Then he hammered his heels against his ribs and the lazy
+beast rose to a jogging trot, immediately disappearing in the snow and
+darkness.
+
+The wife, as may be supposed, was dumfounded and uncertain what to do,
+if indeed she could do anything. At the moment when it looked as if all
+danger was past, one of their enemies had unexpectedly stolen their
+pack-pony.
+
+Where were the rest? Why did they content themselves with this simple
+act, when they might have done a thousandfold worse? How soon would the
+rest be on the spot? Was there no hope now of escape for the miserable
+fugitives?
+
+These and similar thoughts were passing through her mind, when she heard
+her husband calling to her in a cautious voice. Not daring to reply,
+through fear of attracting the attention of their enemies, she threaded
+her way through the timber, and reached his side at the moment his heart
+was filled with despair at the belief that something frightful had taken
+place.
+
+The joy of the rancher, on clasping his beloved wife once more in his
+arms, caused him to forget everything else for the moment, but she
+quickly made known the startling incident that had occurred.
+
+"Heavens!" he muttered, "they have traced us after all, but where are
+the rest?"
+
+"They must be near," she replied, laying her hand on his arm. "Listen!"
+
+They did so, but heard nothing more.
+
+"We must cross at once," he whispered.
+
+No time was lost in following the prudent suggestion. The wife was
+helped upon the back of the mare, Dot still remaining asleep, and the
+husband, mounted on Dick, placed himself in front.
+
+"There is only one place, and that lasts but for a few steps, where you
+will have to raise your foot to protect it from the water," he said, as
+they were about to enter the stream.
+
+"I will remember," she nervously replied; "don't wait."
+
+Once again the faithful pony entered the water, the mare so close behind
+that husband and wife could have touched each other, and the fording of
+the current began.
+
+The rancher did not forget that it was impossible in the darkness to
+follow precisely his own course. Having emerged at a different point
+from where he entered, he was in reality following a different course,
+which might be the same as if it were a half mile farther up or down
+stream.
+
+This proved to be the case, though the disappointment was of an
+agreeable nature, for the ponies struck a shallower part than that which
+was first forded. At no portion did the water do more than barely touch
+the bodies of the animals, and then only for a few steps. Once the mare
+slipped on a smooth stone, and came within a hair of unseating her
+rider, but the latter's skill enabled her to retain her seat, and a few
+minutes later the two came out on the other side, without a drop of
+moisture on their garments.
+
+"Thank Heaven!" was the fervent ejaculation of the husband as the fact
+was accomplished. "It is better than I expected."
+
+"But don't forget that they may have done the same thing, and perhaps
+are awaiting us near at hand."
+
+"You may be right, Molly, and we cannot be too careful."
+
+The words were barely uttered when the splashing of water behind them
+left no doubt that the Sioux were again on their trail.
+
+"Quick!" whispered the husband; "dismount; you can't ride the mare among
+the trees; she will follow, and don't fail to keep close behind Dick."
+
+It was important, above all things, to leave the spot before the red men
+landed. Otherwise, they would hear the horses and locate them without
+difficulty.
+
+A disappointment awaited our friends. It will be remembered that the
+fringe of timber on the other side was quite narrow, and they naturally
+supposed it corresponded on the farther shore. But after threading their
+way for double the distance, they were surprised to find no evidence of
+the open plain beyond.
+
+The rancher dared not continue farther while there was reason to fear
+their pursuers were near. The brushing of the branches against the
+bodies of the animals and the noise of their hoofs could be detected in
+the silence, and was sure to betray the fugitives to any Sioux within a
+hundred yards.
+
+The wife understood why the halt was made. Her husband stole back and
+placed himself by her side.
+
+"You must be wearied with carrying Dot so long," he said sympathizingly.
+
+"It is quite a trial," she replied, in the same guarded voice, "but
+there is no help for it, and I beg you to give the matter no thought."
+
+"Let me take her a while."
+
+"No, that will not do; you must hold your gun ready for instant use, and
+you could not do so with her in your arms. It is not so hard when we are
+sitting on the mare, for it is easy to arrange it so that she supports
+most of her weight."
+
+"You are a good, brave woman, Molly, and deserve to be saved."
+
+"Sh!" she admonished; "I hear something."
+
+He knew she was right, for he caught the sound at the same moment.
+Someone was stealing through the wood near them. It was a person, beyond
+question, for a horse would have made more noise, and the sounds of his
+hoofs would have been more distinct than anything else. That which, fell
+upon their ears was the occasional crackling of a twig, and the brushing
+aside of the obtruding limbs. No matter with what care an Indian warrior
+threaded his way through the timber in this dense gloom, he could not
+avoid such slight evidences of his movements--so slight, indeed, that
+but for the oppressive stillness and the strained hearing of the husband
+and wife they would not have detected them.
+
+Confident that the red man could not trace them in the gloom, even
+though so dangerously near, the dread now was that the ponies would
+betray them. Those watchful animals often prove the most valuable allies
+of the fleeing fugitive, for they possess the power of discovering
+impending danger before it can become known to their masters. But when
+they make such discovery they are apt to announce it by a stamp of the
+hoof or with a sniffing of the nostrils, which, while serving the master
+well, has the disadvantage also of apprising the enemy that his approach
+has become known.
+
+Stealing from his position beside his wife, the rancher stepped to the
+mare and passed his hand reassuringly over her mouth, doing the same
+with his own pony. This action was meant as a command for them to hold
+their peace, though whether it was understood to the extent that it
+would be obeyed, remains to be seen.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+THROUGH THE WOOD.
+
+
+Even in that trying moment, Starr could not help reflecting upon the
+peculiar turn matters had taken. He failed to understand the action of
+the solitary Sioux on the other side, who had contented himself with the
+simple theft of the pack-pony, when he might have done tenfold more
+injury to the fugitives.
+
+And now, judging from the slight sounds that reached him, there was
+another single warrior prowling through the wood, instead of several. It
+might be, however, that his companions were near, awaiting the result of
+his reconnoissance, and would descend upon the whites the instant the
+way opened.
+
+But these speculations were cut short by the alarming discovery that
+some strange fatality was bringing the scout fearfully close to where
+the husband and wife were standing beside their animals, hardly daring
+to speak in the most guarded whispers.
+
+It must have been that the ponies understood what was expected from
+them, for they gave not the least sound. There was not a stamp of a
+hoof, and their breathing was as gentle as an infant's. So long as they
+remained mute it would seem that the peril must pass by.
+
+And so it ought to have done, for assuredly the Indian could have gained
+no clew to the whereabouts of the fugitives from them or their animals.
+
+But all the same, George Starr was not long in making the uncomfortable
+discovery that the red man was at his elbow, and the crisis was upon
+him.
+
+The rancher knew where the miscreant was, and he determined to chance
+it. He silently clubbed his Winchester, brought it back over his left
+shoulder, and, concentrating his utmost strength in his arms, brought
+down the butt of this weapon with resistless force.
+
+It could not have been better aimed had the sun been shining. It crashed
+on the crown of the unsuspecting Sioux, who sank silently to the earth,
+and it is enough to say that the "subsequent proceedings interested him
+no more."
+
+"Sh!" whispered the husband; "there may be others near us; do you hear
+anything?"
+
+Neither could catch any suspicious noise, and he concluded it was best
+to move on. If they should remain where they were when daylight came,
+all hope would be gone. The situation would be hardly improved if they
+stayed any longer in the gloom, after what had taken place.
+
+Making known his purpose to his wife, he placed himself at the head of
+Dick, and holding his bit, started forward. The mare followed the moment
+she heard what was going on, and the mother with her child walked
+between.
+
+But less than twenty steps were taken, when the leader paused abruptly,
+alarmed by an altogether unexpected discovery. The twinkle of a light
+appeared among the trees in front, so directly in their path that, had
+they continued straight forward, they would have stepped into the blaze.
+
+This was cause for astonishment, and suggested that the fugitives had
+struck a place where other Sioux had gathered, probably a number who
+knew nothing of what had taken place a short time before. If this were
+true, there ought not to be much difficulty in working past them.
+
+Still, critical as was the situation, he felt that the chance to learn
+something ought not to be thrown away. Whispering to his wife to remain
+where she was, he left her and stole forward until he could gain sight
+of the blaze and those surrounding it.
+
+There was the fire made by a number of sticks heaped against the trunk
+of a tree, and burning vigorously, but to his surprise, not an Indian
+was in sight. How many had been gathered there, how long since they had
+left, whether they would return, and if so, how soon? All these were
+questions that must be left to some other time before even attempting to
+guess the answers.
+
+He waited some minutes, thinking possibly the missing warriors would
+return, but not one showed up, and he felt it would not do to tarry
+longer. A goodly portion of the night had already passed, and Fort Meade
+was still a long distance away, with a dangerous stretch of country to
+pass.
+
+It seemed to the husband and wife that they hardly breathed, as they
+moved through the wood. He held his pony by the rein with his left hand,
+while he used the right, grasping the Winchester, to open the way in
+front. They could do nothing more, listening meanwhile for the sounds of
+danger which they expected to hear every moment.
+
+But lo! while they were advancing in this guarded manner, they suddenly
+came out of the wood and into the open country again.
+
+The husband uttered another exclamation of thankfulness, and checked the
+animals.
+
+"Now it looks as if we had a chance to accomplish something," he said,
+"and I am sure you are in need of rest."
+
+"I am somewhat weary, but I can stand a great deal more, George; give no
+thought to me, but think only of the peril from which we must escape
+this night or never."
+
+He gently took the little Dot, swathed as she was in the heavy blanket,
+and held her while his wife remounted the mare, without help. We have
+said she was an excellent horsewoman, as she had proved before this
+eventful night.
+
+"Now," said he, when she was firmly seated and extended her arms to take
+the child, "I am going to use my authority as a husband over you."
+
+"Have I not always been an obedient wife?" she asked, with mock
+humility.
+
+"No man was ever blessed with a better helpmate," was the reply.
+
+"I await your commands, my lord."
+
+Instead of passing the child to her, he reached up his rifle.
+
+"What is the meaning of that?" she asked wonderingly.
+
+"Lay it across the saddle in front, where its weight will not discommode
+you. I shall carry Dot."
+
+"But think, George, of the risk it involves. I assure you that it will
+be no task for me to take care of her now that I am in the saddle
+again."
+
+"All discussion is ended," he replied, with a severity which she well
+knew was assumed, though she did not dispute him. She accepted the
+weapon and placed it in position as he directed. Then supporting the
+precious child with one arm, he mounted his pony and placed himself by
+her side.
+
+"We will ride abreast; if any emergency calls for the use of my gun, I
+can pass Dot to you in an instant; you must remember too, that I have a
+revolver, which may serve me better in any sudden peril."
+
+"I obey," she replied, "but you will not deny me the right to think you
+are committing a mistake; since, however, it is actuated by love, I
+appreciate it."
+
+"I assure you," he said with deep feeling, "that aside from the
+consideration due you, I am acting for the best. I wish you, as long as
+possible, to remain at my side. We have made so many turnings and
+changes in our course that I have lost all idea of the points of the
+compass; I do not know whether we are going toward Fort Meade or
+straying off to the right or left, with the probability that in the
+morning we may be far out of the way. Help me to keep our bearings."
+
+And husband and wife rode out on the prairie in the darkness and falling
+snow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+NIGHT AND MORNING.
+
+
+By this time the snow lay to the depth of several inches on the earth.
+It was still falling, and the cold was increasing. The flakes were
+slighter, and there were fewer of them. His knowledge of the weather
+told the rancher that the fall would cease after a while, with a still
+further lowering of the temperature. Thanks, however, to the
+thoughtfulness of his wife more than himself, they were so plentifully
+provided with blankets and extra garments that they were not likely to
+suffer any inconvenience from that cause.
+
+Fortunately for them and greatly to their relief, the stretch of prairie
+which they had struck continued comparatively level. Occasionally they
+ascended a slight elevation or rode down a declivity, but in no case for
+more than two hours was either so steep that the ponies changed their
+gait from the easy swinging canter to a walk.
+
+Once, after riding down a slight decline, they struck another stream,
+but it was little more than a brook, so strait that a dozen steps
+brought them out on the other side with little more than the wetting of
+their animals' hoofs.
+
+They rode side by side, for the mare was as fleet and enduring as the
+horse. Now and then they glanced back, but saw nothing to cause alarm,
+and hope became stronger than before.
+
+"We are doing remarkably well," said the husband, breaking the silence
+for the first time in a half hour.
+
+"Yes," was the thoughtful reply; "we must have travelled a good many
+miles since the last start, and there is only one danger that troubles
+me."
+
+"What is that?"
+
+"The probability--nay, the almost certainty--that we are not journeying
+toward the fort."
+
+"I have thought much of that," replied the husband, giving voice to a
+misgiving that had disturbed him more than he was willing to admit; "it
+is as you say, that the chances are against our proceeding in a direct
+line, but it is equally true that the general course is right."
+
+"How can you know that?"
+
+"Because we have crossed two streams that were in our path, and they
+remain behind us."
+
+"But," reminded the thoughtful wife, "you forget that those same streams
+are very winding in their course. If they followed a direct line, we
+could ask no more proof that we are on the right track."
+
+"True, but it cannot be that they take such a course that we are
+travelling toward the ranch again."
+
+"Hardly as bad as that, but if we are riding at right angles in either
+direction, we shall be in a sad plight when the morning comes. The sun
+will take from us all chance of dodging the Sioux so narrowly as we have
+done more than once since leaving home."
+
+"We must not forget the peril of which you speak; at such times I trust
+much to the instinct of the animals."
+
+"And would not that, in the present case, lead them to go toward rather
+than from home?"
+
+"I'm blessed if I thought of that!"
+
+The rancher was filled with dismay for the moment, and brought Dick down
+to a walk.
+
+"No," he added the next moment, striking him into a gallop again, "if
+they were left to themselves they would try to make their way to the
+ranch, but they have been under too much guidance, and have been forced
+to do too many disagreeable things, for them to attempt that. I am sure
+we are nearing Fort Meade."
+
+"I trust so," was the response of the wife; which remark did anything
+but add to the hopefulness of her husband.
+
+The animals now began to show signs of fatigue. The snow balled under
+their hoofs, causing a peculiar jolting to the riders, when it became so
+big that the weight broke it or made their feet slip off, when new
+gatherings commenced immediately to form.
+
+After being forced to a canter the horses would drop of their own accord
+to a walk, and soon they were left to continue at their own gait.
+
+"How far, Molly, do you think we have come?" asked the rancher.
+
+"It must be fifteen miles, and possibly more; if it were in a direct
+line, adding what we made before crossing the last stream, it would be
+safe to wait until morning."
+
+Again the wife gave expression to the thought that was in her husband's
+mind. He had been asking himself for the last half hour whether it would
+not be wise to come to a halt for daylight. The rest thus secured to the
+animals would enable them to do much better, when the right course could
+be determined with absolute certainty, and a few hours' brisk riding
+ought to take them beyond all fear of their harassing enemies.
+
+There remained the haunting fear of their being on the wrong course. If
+daylight found them little nearer the fort than when at the ranch, their
+situation would be most critical. But all speculation on that important
+matter must remain such until the truth could be learned.
+
+One reason why the rancher did not propose a halt before it was hinted
+at by his wife, was that no suitable place presented itself. It would
+not do to camp in the open plain, where there was no shelter for them or
+their animals; they must keep on until the ground changed.
+
+That change came sooner than they anticipated. The ponies were plodding
+forward with their loads, when, before either of the riders suspected
+it, they were on the edge of another growth of timber, which promised
+the very thing they sought.
+
+"Here we are!" said Mr. Starr, "and I think we can say that the journey
+will be suspended until daylight."
+
+"If there is another stream, George, I shall feel safer if we place
+ourselves on the other side before we halt for the rest of the night."
+
+"I don't view another fording with much pleasure, but we can soon find
+out how it is."
+
+The character of this timber differed from that which they had already
+passed, in that it abounded with so many bowlders and rocks that, after
+penetrating it a short way, it became too dangerous for the ponies to
+persevere. They were liable at any moment to break a limb.
+
+"Remain here a few minutes while I investigate," said the rancher,
+passing the sleeping Dot to his wife.
+
+He penetrated more than a hundred yards, without coming upon any water.
+He did not go farther, for he was satisfied there was none near them.
+The ground not only grew more rocky and precipitous as he advanced, but
+steadily rose, so as to show that he was at the base of a ridge over
+which it was a difficult matter to make their way. It would have been
+folly to try it in the darkness, and on his return he sought some spot
+favorable for going into camp.
+
+He was more successful than he expected. A mass of rocks was found,
+whose tops projected sufficiently to afford a fair shelter. The snow,
+slanting from the other direction, left a comparatively large surface
+bare. Here the ponies were drawn to one side and their trappings
+removed. There were not enough spare blankets to cover them as the
+fugitives wished to do, but they were too tough to suffer much.
+
+Then the blankets were distributed, and so placed that when the husband
+and wife huddled together against the base of the rocks, they, as well
+as Dot, were quite comfortable. The rancher might have gathered wood and
+started a fire, but it was not needed, and they feared the consequences
+of such a proceeding. They were so worn out with the trials and toil of
+the night, that they soon sank into a deep slumber which lasted till
+morning. Then, upon awaking, the first act of the rancher was to
+ascertain his bearings, so far as it was possible to do so.
+
+The result was the disheartening conviction that they were no nearer
+Fort Meade than when they forded the last stream early on the preceding
+night.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+A STARTLING SURPRISE.
+
+
+We must not forget that young Warren Starr and Tim Brophy have an
+important part to play in the incidents we have set out to relate.
+
+We left them in the wooded rocky section, where they had spent the night
+together in the rude shelter erected a year before when on their hunting
+excursions. They were awakened by the frenzied cry of the young
+Irishman's horse, and appeared on the scene just in time to save the
+pony from a grizzly bear, who made things exceedingly lively for the
+young gentlemen themselves.
+
+But relieved of their peril, they sat down like sensible persons to make
+their morning meal from the lunch brought thither by Tim. They ate
+heartily, never pausing until the last particle of food was gone. Then
+they rose like giants refreshed with new wine.
+
+"Now," said Warren, "we will mount the ponies, and instead of making for
+the fort will try to find the folks."
+
+"I'm wid ye there, as I remarked previously," was the response of the
+brave young rancher, who was ever ready to risk his life for those whom
+he loved.
+
+"It will be an almost hopeless hunt, for father could give me only a
+general idea of the course he meant to take, and we are likely to go
+miles astray."
+
+"We shall have to depind on Providence to hilp us, though it may be the
+folks are in no naad of our assistance."
+
+"I pray that such may be the case," was the fervent response of Warren,
+accompanied by a sigh of misgiving. "I think we shall be able to take
+care of ourselves, but father is in a bad fix with mother and Dot on his
+hands. I hope Plummer has joined them."
+
+"He niver will do the same," remarked Tim gravely.
+
+"Why do you say that?"
+
+"He has been killed by the spalpeens, for if he hadn't, he would have
+showed himsilf before we lift the ranch."
+
+"It looks that way, but you cannot be certain."
+
+"I wish I couldn't, but he must have larned of thim being so near the
+house as soon as mesilf, or very nearly so, and he would have been back
+before me. That he didn't come is proof to my mind that he niver
+will--ye may depind on the same."
+
+This brief conversation took place while the youths were saddling and
+mounting their horses. They made certain that everything was secure, and
+then, carefully guiding their animals among bowlders to the open
+prairie, paused a moment to decide upon the best course to take.
+
+To the northwest stretched the white plain in gentle undulations, and in
+the clear sunlight, miles away in the horizon, rose the dark line of a
+wooded ridge, similar to the others described, and which are so common
+in that section of the country. They agreed that the best course was to
+head toward it, for it seemed to them that the rancher had probably
+crossed the same at some point, or if he had not already done so, would
+ride in that direction. Possibly, too, the father, despite the wishes he
+had expressed, would suspect such a movement on the part of his son. If
+so, the probability of their meeting was increased.
+
+The air was clear, sharp, and bracing, with the sun shining from an
+unclouded sky. It was a time to stir the blood, and had not the young
+ranchers been oppressed by anxiety for their friends, they would have
+bounded across the plain in the highest possible spirits. The ponies,
+having no such fear, struck into a swinging gallop of their own accord,
+which continued without interruption until more than half the
+intervening distance was passed. All this time the youths were carefully
+scanning the wooded ridge, as it rose more distinctly to view; for they
+could not forget that they were more likely to meet hostiles than
+friends in that section, and approaching it across an open plain, must
+continue conspicuous objects to whatever Sioux were there.
+
+"Tim," said Warren, as they rode easily beside each other, "unless I am
+much mistaken, a fire is burning on the ridge."
+
+"Where?"
+
+"Almost directly ahead, but a little to the left; tell me whether you
+can make it out."
+
+The Irishman shaded his eyes with one hand, for the glare of the sun on
+the snow was almost blinding, and after a moment's scrutiny, said:
+
+"Ye are right; there is a fire up there; not much smoke does the same
+give out, but it is climbing up the clear sky as straight as a mon's
+finger."
+
+"I take it that it means Indians; it seems to me they are all around
+us."
+
+"I agraas wid ye, but s'pose it is a fire that yer fayther has started
+himsilf."
+
+Warren shook his head.
+
+"He would not do so imprudent a thing as that."
+
+"But he moight have in his eye that we'd be looking for something of the
+same."
+
+Still his friend was unconvinced.
+
+"He could not be certain that it would be noted by us, while he must
+have known that it was sure to attract the attention of the Sioux. No;
+I cannot be mistaken."
+
+"Do ye want to pass it by widout finding out its maaning?"
+
+"If it is father who has kindled the blaze, and he is looking for us, he
+will find some way of telling us more plainly----"
+
+"Do ye obsarve?" asked Tim, in some excitement.
+
+Beyond question the approach of the two young horsemen had produced an
+effect. The faint column of smoke which, until that moment, had climbed
+perpendicularly up the sky, now showed a wavy appearance, vibrating from
+side to side in graceful undulations, as though it were a ribbon swayed
+by human hands. But Warren, instead of accepting this as did his
+companion, regarded it as more indicative of danger. The Sioux that were
+responsible for the ascending vapor were aware of the approach of the
+couple, and were signalling the fact to others whose whereabouts was
+unknown to the whites.
+
+"Do ye moind," said Tim, "that two months since, whin we were hunting
+along the Big Cheyenne and got separated from him and Plummer, he let
+us know where they were in jist that way?"
+
+It was a fact. Precisely the same signal had been used by the parent to
+apprise his son and companion where he and Plummer were, though in that
+instance it was the employe who adopted the method.
+
+He was inclined for a few seconds to agree with his companion; but there
+was something in the prominence of the artifice, and the certainty that
+it would be noted by unfriendly eyes, that caused him to dismiss the
+belief. Enough doubt, however, had been injected into his mind to bring
+the desire for further investigation.
+
+"We will ride straight toward it, as though we intended to go to the
+camp or signal fire as it may be, but will turn aside before reaching
+the ridge, so as to avoid the trap that may be set for us. I had an
+experience yesterday afternoon something like that before you joined
+me."
+
+Strange it was that the couple, who, despite their youth, had learned so
+much of border life, forgot to keep watch of the rear, while giving so
+much attention to the front. Singular as it may seem, they had not
+looked behind them for the preceding half hour. The sight of the signal
+fire ahead so absorbed their interest that they neglected this obvious
+precaution; nor did it once occur to them that if the smoke was sent
+into the sky by hostiles, who meant it for the guidance of confederates,
+those same confederates were likely to be to the rear of them.
+
+Such was the fact, and the knowledge came to the friends in the most
+startling manner conceivable, being in the shape of several rifle
+bullets which whistled about their ears. Then, when they glanced
+affrightedly around, they saw fully a dozen Sioux bucks, all well
+mounted, bearing down upon them at full speed.
+
+They had issued from the rocky section behind them, and ridden to this
+perilous position without the youths once dreaming of the fact until, as
+may be said, the hostiles were literally upon them.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+A RUN FOR LIFE.
+
+
+But one thing could be done: that was to run, and Warren Starr and Tim
+Brophy did it in the highest style of the art. They put their ponies to
+their utmost pace without an instant's delay. The animals, as if
+conscious of their peril, bounded across the snowy plain on a dead run,
+with their riders stretching forward over their necks to escape the
+bullets expected every moment.
+
+It must have been that the Sioux were sure the fugitives would look
+around the next moment, else they would have stolen nearer before
+announcing their presence in such a startling fashion.
+
+The only hope for the young ranchers lay in the speed of their horses,
+since there was no other possible chance against the bucks who were as
+fierce after their lives as so many ravening wolves. The boys shouted to
+their animals, who flew across the plain as though the snow did not
+discommode them in the least. They did not separate, for the instinctive
+resolve thrilled them that they would fall or escape together.
+
+Each was provided with a repeating Winchester, and enough has been told
+to prove they knew how to use the weapons effectively, but the
+opportunity was hardly the present, since to turn and fire while their
+ponies were on the run, offered little chance of success, and was liable
+to interfere with their speed, so important above everything else.
+
+The flight was so sudden that, without thought, they headed toward the
+wooded ridge, where they had seen the suspicious signal fire, but they
+had not gone far before discovering that that would never do. The flight
+must end at the ridge, where they would find themselves at fearful
+disadvantage.
+
+"We must have the open plain or we are lost!" called Warren.
+
+"Ay, ay; I'm wid ye," replied Tim, who pulled sharply on the right rein
+of his animal. At the same moment his friend turned the head of his
+horse to the left, and, before the comrades were aware, they were
+diverging with several rods between them.
+
+Warren was the first to perceive the mistake, and believing he had
+adopted the right line of flight, shouted for his friend to do the same.
+Tim had already noticed the turn and now thundered across the prairie
+toward him. But the devious course, as will be readily seen, threw him
+slightly to the rear, seeing which, Warren drew in his animal to allow
+him to come up.
+
+"None of that!" called the Irishman; "ye've no advantage to throw away!
+Ye can't hilp me by that nonsense."
+
+But Warren gave him no heed. The next minute Tim was almost at his side.
+
+"I belave we're riding faster than the spalpeens," he added, glancing
+for the twentieth time to the rear, where the Sioux were forcing their
+horses to the utmost. They did not fire for some time after the opening
+volley, giving their whole attention to this run for life.
+
+That the capacities of the pursuing ponies varied was quickly apparent.
+Several began dropping to the rear, but more than half maintained their
+places near each other.
+
+It was hard to tell whether they were holding their own or gradually
+drifting back from the fugitives. The one hopeful fact was that as yet
+they were not gaining. Whether they would do so or lose ground must
+quickly appear.
+
+Tim Brophy now performed a deed as reckless as it was daring. He watched
+the rear more than did Warren, and was in the act of drawing up beside
+the latter, when he discovered that one of the Sioux was leading all the
+rest. He was fully a rod in advance, and what was more alarming than
+everything else, he was gaining, beyond question, on the fugitives. His
+horse had developed a burst of speed that no one anticipated.
+
+Rising to the sitting posture in the saddle, Tim brought his gun to his
+shoulder.
+
+"Don't do that!" admonished Warren. "You have no chance to hit him, and
+will cause Billy to lose ground."
+
+The Irishman made no reply; he was too much occupied with the act he had
+in mind. Furthermore, he noted that the buck whom he held in such fear
+was making ready to fire.
+
+But Tim was ahead of him, and, by one of those strange accidents which
+sometimes happen, he hit him so fair and hard that, with the invariable
+cry of his race when mortally hurt, he reeled sideways and fell to the
+ground, his horse, with a snort of alarm, circling off over the prairie
+far from his companions.
+
+[Illustration: TIM'S FORTUNATE SHOT.]
+
+Warren glanced around at the moment the gun was discharged and could
+hardly believe his own eyes. He knew the success was accidental, and
+hoped it would not encourage Tim to repeat the attempt.
+
+It was expected that the shot would serve as a check to the rest, and
+ordinarily it would have done so, but it produced not the slightest
+effect in that direction. Back of the fallen warrior, whose body rolled
+over and over in the snow, as it struck with a rebound, were more than
+half a dozen, with the others streaming after them. They gave no heed to
+their fallen leader, neither uttering any outcry nor firing in return,
+but pressing their ponies to the highest possible point. They were
+resolved upon capturing those fugitives and subjecting them to a
+punishment beside which shooting would be a mercy.
+
+It would not do to forget the country in front. While their chief
+interest lay to the rear, they were liable to run into some peril that
+would undo all the good gained by outrunning their pursuers. Warren saw
+that while they had swerved to the left, yet the course of the ridge
+would carry them to its base, unless they diverged still more from the
+direct path.
+
+And yet this divergence must be made as gradual as circumstances would
+permit, since otherwise great advantage would be given their enemies by
+the chance to "cut across lots," or in other words to follow a straight
+line, while offsetting the curved course of the fugitives.
+
+Directing the attention of Tim to the situation, he begged him to give
+no further thought to firing upon their foes.
+
+"I'll let the spalpeens alone if they'll do the same wid me," was his
+reply, spoken in a low voice, for the two were separated by only a few
+feet.
+
+"You can't have as good luck a second time."
+
+"But," persisted Tim, "if I hadn't dropped that felly, he would have
+tumbled you or mesilf out of the saddle, as he was about to do whin I
+jumped on him wid both feet."
+
+But Warren begged him to desist, confident as he was that any further
+attempt would result in ill to them. Tim held his peace, but leaving his
+friend to watch where they went he gave his chief attention to the
+Sioux, whose leaders, if they were not gaining ground, seemed to be
+holding their own.
+
+Suddenly, to Warren's disgust, his companion again brought his gun to
+his shoulder. Before he could aim and fire, however, one of the bucks
+discharged his weapon and the bullet nipped the leg of young Starr, who
+continued leaning forward, so as to offer as little of his body as
+possible for a target.
+
+Tim fired, but more than likely the ball went wide of the mark.
+
+His companion hoped that the act of their pursuers in shooting was
+caused by their fear of losing the fugitives through the speed of their
+ponies.
+
+But a short distance was necessary before the boys were riding in a line
+parallel with the ridge that had loomed up in their path. This gave them
+an open country for an unknown distance, over which to continue their
+flight, but it was hardly to be supposed that it would continue long.
+The section was too broken to warrant such a hope.
+
+It may have been the perception of the fugitives' object that brought
+the shot from the Sioux. At any rate, if it should become manifest that
+the young ranchers were drawing away, the rifles of the pursuers were
+certain to be brought into effective use, and the distance between the
+parties was fearfully brief.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+AWAY WE GO!
+
+
+One recourse was before the pursuing Sioux from the start: that was to
+shoot the horses of the fugitives. The wonder was that they had not
+aimed to do so from the first. With the couple dismounted, they would be
+at their mercy.
+
+It was the fear of this that caused Warren to ask his friend to draw up
+as near to him as he could. It was not likely that both ponies would
+fall at once, and the survivor might be able to carry the couple to
+safety.
+
+"I tell ye we are gaining," said the Irishman, with far more hope in his
+manner than Warren thought was warranted.
+
+"We must gain a good deal before getting out of the woods," was the
+reply of the other, who devoted every energy to forcing his animal to
+his best pace.
+
+"Look out! they're going to shoot again," said Tim.
+
+Throwing himself forward, Warren hugged his pony closer than ever, his
+companion doing the same, instead of trying to use his gun. The volley
+came while the words were in course of utterance, but neither of the
+youths was touched. The Sioux must have found it equally hard to fire
+with their animals on a full run.
+
+"Why don't the spalpeens save their powder?" was the disgusted question
+of Tim, but his feelings changed a minute later, when his own pony
+showed by his actions that he had been hit hard. He uttered a low,
+moaning cry, and staggered as if about to fall.
+
+Warren was the first to notice it.
+
+"Tim, Billy is going to drop; ride closer and mount Jack behind me."
+
+"Not a bit of it! I'll see you hanged first," was the characteristic
+reply of the brave fellow, who sturdily refused to heed the urgent
+appeal of his friend.
+
+"Why not?"
+
+"Jack can't carry us both."
+
+"He can until we reach the ridge."
+
+"But we're not going toward it," insisted Tim, too observant to be
+deceived.
+
+"Turn Billy's head that way," said Warren, growing desperate in the
+imminence of the peril, and swerving his pony to the right; "Jack can
+carry us both as well as one."
+
+Still the Irishman hesitated. It might be as his companion said, but he
+was unwilling to imperil Warren, and destroy the chances of both, when
+everything looked so favorable for one.
+
+Meanwhile, the stricken Billy was fast giving out. He struggled gamely,
+but it was evident that he must quickly succumb. At the most, he could
+go but a short distance farther.
+
+The Sioux fired again, but nothing was accomplished. If Jack was hit, he
+did not show it during the few seconds that his rider held his breath.
+
+Still Tim held back in the face of the pleadings of his friend. Two
+discoveries, however, led him to yield.
+
+They were now heading straight for the ridge, which was barely half a
+mile distant. It must soon be attained, unless something happened to
+Jack. The foremost Sioux had fallen so perceptibly behind that there was
+reason to believe the horse could carry both riders to safety, or rather
+to the refuge which they hoped to find at the base of the ridge.
+
+"I'll do the same, being it's yerself that asks it----"
+
+"Quick! Billy is falling!" called Warren, far more excited than his
+companion.
+
+The crisis had come. The poor animal could go no farther, and was
+swaying from side to side like a drunken person, certain to fall with
+the next minute.
+
+Tim released his foot from the stirrup on his right, swung his leg over
+the saddle, as only a skilful horseman can do, and, holding his gun with
+one hand, grasped the outstretched one of Warren and made a slight leap,
+which landed him behind him.
+
+It was a delicate and difficult task, and despite the skill with which
+it was executed, both came within a hair of tumbling headlong to the
+ground.
+
+Quickly as it was done, it was not a moment too soon. The mortally
+wounded Billy suddenly went forward, his nose ploughing up the snow and
+earth, and after a few struggles all was over.
+
+The action had not only increased the danger of both of the fugitives,
+but it rendered the situation of the Irishman doubly perilous. Although
+both leaned forward, they could not do so as effectually as when each
+was on his own horse, and Tim of necessity was the more exposed of the
+two.
+
+Leaving Warren to guide and urge Jack, he gave his attention to the
+Sioux, who did not relax their efforts, but whose relative situations,
+owing to the varying speed of their horses, underwent a curious change
+of position.
+
+Two were riding abreast, and so far as Tim could see there was not the
+least difference in the speed of their ponies. Behind them at a distance
+of several rods came two others, holding precisely the same relative
+positions, while the rest were strung along over the prairie, until it
+looked as if the hindmost was a third of a mile distant.
+
+Nothing was to be feared from them, but what of those that were so much
+nearer?
+
+That was the vital question that must soon be answered.
+
+While the position of the Irishman was anything but pleasant, and with
+the horse on a jump he was required to take the utmost care to maintain
+his seat, he decided to try his gun once more.
+
+This proved harder than he supposed. He could make no use of the saddle
+in which young Starr sat, and when he sought to turn he would have
+fallen, had he not kept one arm about the waist of his friend. And yet,
+in the face of all this, he managed to get his Winchester in position
+with the muzzle toward the leading Sioux.
+
+Anything like aiming the weapon was out of the question, and it would
+have been folly to expect that a second chance shot would favor him.
+Nevertheless, the demonstration accomplished something unexpected. He
+had done execution with one shot, and when the bucks saw the muzzle
+pointing backward, they were scared.
+
+The leaders naturally supposed they were the ones intended to serve as
+targets, and they ducked their heads with such suddenness that the
+Irishman grinned. Not only that, but one of them caused his
+pony--probably through some inadvertent act on the part of the rider--to
+swerve from his course, thereby interfering with those immediately in
+the rear.
+
+Even the companion at his side was thrown somewhat out of "plumb," and
+lost a few paces, much to the delight of Tim, who gleefully told Warren
+of what had taken place.
+
+The advantage to the fugitives will be understood when it is remembered
+that they were rapidly drawing near the ridge, now at no great distance
+in front.
+
+True, there was no certainty that it would prove a refuge to them, if
+attained; but it would be more of a shelter than the open prairie,
+where, if driven to bay, there was not the slightest protection against
+the bullets of the Sioux, unless the body of Jack should be used as a
+breastwork.
+
+The confusion of the bucks was only temporary. They needed no one to
+tell them what the aim of the youths was when they changed the line of
+their flight, nor could they fail to see that the ridge would be
+attained quite soon, unless they were checked.
+
+Tim Brophy suspected that such thoughts were passing through their
+minds, and despite the hopelessness of the effort, he discharged his
+rifle toward them; and when it is stated that it was discharged "toward
+them," no more can be said. There is no reason to believe that he came
+within twenty feet of hitting any one of the Sioux.
+
+It may be doubted, therefore, whether this essay on his part was
+beneficial to himself and companion, inasmuch as it must have lowered
+their opinion of his marksmanship and convinced the red men that they
+were altogether mistaken in giving heed to any more shots fired by him
+from the back of the pony, which was not only going at full speed, but
+was carrying a double burden.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+ON FOOT.
+
+
+The fugitives were now so close to the ridge that Warren Starr, from his
+position on his pony, turned his attention to their immediate front. He
+saw that the race must end, so far as his steed was concerned, within
+the next second. The trees stood close together, the ascent was steep,
+and the bowlders and rocks, plainly discernible, since all leafage was
+gone, showed that the horse must halt of necessity at the moment of
+striking the base of the elevation.
+
+The Sioux had ceased firing. They were so certain of capturing the
+youths that they saved their ammunition. The struggle could not last
+much longer.
+
+"Be ready to jump off!" said Warren to his companion; "I am going to
+stop!"
+
+Even as he spoke, he threw Jack on his haunches with a suddenness that
+would have pitched the couple over his head, had they not braced
+themselves. Both took a flying leap from his back and dashed for the
+cover now directly before them.
+
+The purpose was still to keep together, but circumstances beyond their
+control prevented. They had no time to form any plan. Young Starr darted
+to the right, aiming for some rocks which he fancied might afford
+partial shelter. Tim had his eye on a somewhat similar refuge to the
+left, and made for that. He would have joined his friend had he known
+his intention, but the seconds were too precious to allow it, after a
+few steps were taken. So he kept on without once glancing behind him.
+
+Still there was no firing. The Indians must have felt more certain than
+ever of their prey, thus to hold their shots. They emitted several
+whoops of exultation, and the foremost bounded from their ponies and
+sped after the fugitives like so many bloodhounds.
+
+But the separation of the latter compelled a division of the former,
+who, it will be remembered, were scattered at varying distances, only a
+couple being at the heels of the young ranchers. Thus it came about that
+each was pursued by a single warrior, and through a whim which cannot be
+fully understood, the Sioux next to the leaders turned to the left on
+the trail of the young Irishman, who had thus the honor, if it may be so
+considered, of attracting the greater attention.
+
+For a few moments Warren devoted his energies to running. He bounded
+like a hare over the first bowlder that interposed, swerved slightly to
+the right, to pass an obstructing rock, and went up the slope with the
+same headlong speed with which he had dashed from the level ground to
+the bottom of the slope.
+
+It was not until he had sped fully a hundred yards in this furious
+fashion that he ventured to throw a glance over his shoulder. Then he
+learned that there was but a single Sioux in sight.
+
+The fugitive had held his own so well against this miscreant, that the
+latter must have felt a quick fear of his escaping him altogether. Young
+Starr was an unusually swift sprinter, and it may be doubted whether
+the fleet-footed Indian could have run him down in a fair contest.
+
+The fear of losing the young man caused the Sioux to check himself
+abruptly, bring his gun to a level, and let fly.
+
+An extraordinary accident, or rather providence, saved the fugitive. At
+the very instant of his enemy firing, Warren's foot slipped in the snow,
+and he stumbled on his hands and knees. Certain that his fall was due to
+the bullet just sent after him, the Sioux, with a whoop of triumph,
+bounded forward over the bowlders and around the rocks to finish him.
+
+Warren saw, with lightning-like quickness, that his fall might be his
+salvation. It had deceived his foe into the belief that he was either
+killed or mortally hurt, and he was, therefore, unprepared for that
+which followed.
+
+The youth did not attempt to rise. He had slipped down in such a
+position that he was hidden from the sight of his pursuer. He quickly
+shifted around so as to face him, and, rising on one knee, held his
+Winchester pointed and ready for use.
+
+He had not long to wait. The Sioux was so close that the next minute his
+head and shoulders appeared above the rock, as he took his tremendous
+strides toward the lad, whom he expected to see stretched helpless on
+the snowy earth.
+
+The sight of him kneeling on one knee, with his rifle aimed, his eye
+ranging along the barrel, and his finger on the trigger, was the first
+startling apprisal of the real state of affairs.
+
+The warrior instantly perceived his fearful mistake, and made a
+desperate attempt to dodge to one side, but though the loon may elude
+the bullet of the hunter's rifle, no man has ever yet been equal to the
+task. No screeching Indian was ever hit more fairly, surprised more
+suddenly, or extinguished more utterly.
+
+[Illustration: THE DEATH OF THE INDIAN.]
+
+And so it came about that in the twinkling of an eye Warren Starr was
+left without a pursuer. Not a solitary Sioux was in sight.
+
+But he was too wise to think he was safe. He was simply relieved for
+the time being of his harassing foes. They must have heard the discharge
+of his rifle, and some of them would soon investigate when their comrade
+failed to return to them. This would be after a few minutes. Naturally
+they would suppose that the fugitive had been brought down, and not
+until a brief period had elapsed would they suspect the truth.
+
+It was this interval which must be utilized to the utmost, if the youth
+hoped to escape. While the snow would reveal his trail so plainly that
+it could be followed without the least difficulty, yet his own fleetness
+ought to enable him to keep so far in advance of the Sioux that they
+could not gain another shot at him. True, he was deprived of his
+matchless pony, but the red men were also on foot, and therefore they
+stood on equal terms, with the opening in favor of the fugitive.
+
+Warren would have been full of hope and resolution, but for Tim Brophy.
+His concern for his devoted friend forbade him turning the situation
+solely to his own account. He made a hasty examination of his rifle, and
+found nothing the matter with it. It was ready for use whenever needed.
+
+Not a solitary warrior was in sight, and the profound stillness which
+reigned caused the incidents of the last few minutes to seem like some
+wild dream.
+
+With that peculiar doubt that sometimes comes over one in such crises,
+Warren gently pinched one hand with the other. The result convinced him
+that everything was real--imagination had nothing to do with it.
+
+The reports of his own Winchester and the Sioux's rifle were all that
+had broken the stillness since the headlong leap of the young ranchers
+from the back of the pony. There could have been no other report without
+its being heard by Warren, who was sorely perplexed over the fact.
+
+Could it be that equally good fortune had befallen Tim Brophy? Had he
+been able to throw his pursuers off the track for the time? It seemed
+impossible that two such providences should come simultaneously to the
+fugitives. The Irishman was by no means as fleet of foot as Warren, and
+with the majority of the pursuers dashing after him, only the worst
+result was to be feared.
+
+"Some of them will soon be here," was the conclusion of the youth, as he
+stood sorely perplexed as to what he should do; "if I remain, I shall
+have half a dozen of them around me, and then it will be all up; but
+what about Tim?"
+
+In his chivalrous devotion to his comrade, he now began withdrawing from
+his dangerous position, but trended to the right as he faced his
+enemies, with the object of getting near Tim, and with the hope that he
+might be of help to him in his desperate strait.
+
+He shuddered as he glanced down at the ground and observed the prints he
+made in the snow. There could be no delay in tracing him, no matter what
+direction he might take. It must be the same with his friend, who,
+despite any advantage gained at the beginning of his last flight, could
+be readily run down, if the Sioux preferred that to "winging" him while
+in full flight.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+DOWN!
+
+
+Meanwhile Tim Brophy found himself in the hottest quarters of his life.
+
+Inspired by the same desperate thought of his friend, he strove, with
+all the energy he possessed, to widen the space between himself and his
+pursuers. Less fleet of foot than they, it took but a few seconds to
+show him the hopelessness of the task.
+
+None of the trees was large enough to give protection to his body, but
+seeing no rocks that could serve him, he dodged behind the first trunk
+that presented itself. This was barely six inches in diameter, and was
+no better than nothing at all.
+
+Pausing but a moment, he leaped away again, with that wild, aimless
+impulse which comes over one when panic-stricken. The halt, brief though
+it was, proved fatal. His pursuer was on his heels, and the brave youth
+turned at bay. As if fate was against him, when he attempted to bring
+his rifle to a level, he made a slip and it dropped from his grasp. He
+had no time to pick it up.
+
+"S'render! s'render!" called his foe in good English, waving his right
+hand aloft with his gun grasped in it.
+
+"I'll surrender, ye spalpeen!"
+
+Resorting like a flash to nature's weapons, the Irishman delivered a
+blow straight from the shoulder, which sent the Sioux spinning backward
+with his feet pointing toward the sky.
+
+Had he been the only foe to contend with, Tim might have saved himself,
+for the savage was utterly "knocked out," and the opportunity to finish
+him could not have been better.
+
+Tim had his revolver, but in his excitement he forgot the important
+fact. He was about to leap upon his prostrate enemy, with the intention
+of snatching his gun from him and using it, when the other two Sioux
+burst to view.
+
+Without waiting for them to assail him, the youth dashed forward like a
+panther at bay.
+
+Before the foremost could elude the assault, he struck him as fairly as
+he had hit the other, and he sprawled on his back, with the breath
+driven from his body.
+
+But the impetus of his blow carried Tim forward, and, half tripping in
+his headlong rush, he fell on his hands and knees. He strove frantically
+to save himself, but, before he could struggle to his feet, the other
+Sioux dealt him a stroke with the butt of his gun which laid the fellow
+helpless on his face.
+
+The skull of the Irishman, however, was tough, and he quickly recovered,
+but not before several other warriors appeared on the scene.
+
+For one moment the young rancher meditated a rush upon them, and had
+actually doubled his fists for that purpose, but even in his fury he
+perceived the folly of such a course. If he assailed the Sioux, they
+would quickly finish him then and there, while the fact of their having
+spared his life thus far proved that they did not intend to put him to
+instant death.
+
+It was with singular emotions that he recognized among the last arrivals
+the Carlisle student Starcus, who had saved his life the preceding
+morning by his timely shot when the grizzly bear was upon him. The
+presence of the "civilized" youth among the hostiles told its own story.
+
+"Ye've got me foul," said Tim, looking straight at Starcus as he spoke;
+"and now ye may do wid me what ye loikes."
+
+Starcus, knowing the words and look were meant for him, made no answer,
+but kept in the background.
+
+He was grim and silent. Who shall say what thoughts were stirring his
+heart at that trying moment! He had sat with this youth at the table of
+George Starr and his family.
+
+He had partaken of their hospitality, and had claimed to possess the
+civilization which he was anxious his own race should adopt, but here he
+was, taking part in the pursuit and attack of two youths who not only
+had never done him harm, but had always acted the part of friends toward
+him.
+
+There was one curious fact (and yet, perhaps it was not so curious after
+all) which was evident to the captured youth. The Sioux admired the
+brave fight he had made for himself. Trained for ages to regard physical
+prowess as above all virtues, the American race cannot fail to revere
+it, even when they are the sufferers therefrom.
+
+The warrior who had first felt the weight of Tim's fist now began
+clambering to his feet. He was dazed and bewildered, for the blow was a
+terrific one. Landing squarely in his face, it had brought considerable
+crimson, which, mingling with the daubs of paint already there, gave him
+a frightful appearance.
+
+He assumed the upright posture, and standing uncertainly for a few
+seconds, fixed his eyes on the prisoner.
+
+Then grasping the situation, and recognizing him as the individual that
+had treated him so harshly, he suddenly emitted a shout, whipped out his
+hunting-knife, and rushed at him like a fury. Tim instantly threw
+himself into a pugilistic attitude, and no doubt would have given a good
+account of himself had he been permitted, for he was skilled in the art
+of self-defence, and such a person always has the advantage over a foe,
+no matter what his weapon, provided it is not a firearm.
+
+But the collision did not take place. Three Indians interposed,
+restraining the fierce red man; among the foremost being Starcus, who
+roughly seized the upraised arm and forced the warrior back several
+steps, using some strong words in his own language. The savage strove to
+free himself that he might attack the youth, but he was not permitted,
+and finally gave up the effort and withdrew sullenly into the
+background.
+
+This incident was hardly over, when the second warrior that had gone
+down before the young Irishman's prowess also gained his feet. He looked
+as if he would very much like to try conclusions again, with the aid of
+one of his weapons, but he seemed to think he could bide his time, and
+have it out on a more fitting occasion.
+
+The captive was too wise to place a favorable construction on the
+interference of Starcus, despite the additional fact of his kindly
+offices of the morning. The rest of the Sioux had shown a wish to take
+him prisoner, for certainly the chance to bring him down had been theirs
+more than once. Actuated by their intense hatred of the white race, they
+looked upon sudden death as too merciful to a foe that had done them so
+much ill. He had slain one of their best men, and knocked prostrate two
+others; no punishment, therefore, was too cruel to be visited upon him.
+
+While the group stood about the helpless captive they talked in their
+own language, without Tim being able to guess the meaning of a word
+uttered. He watched the countenances closely, and was surprised a minute
+or two later by the appearance of the last member of the party. He came
+straggling up as though he felt no concern in the proceedings. That
+which interested Tim the most was the sight of his valued Winchester in
+the fellow's hand. For one moment the youth thought he meant to hand it
+over to him, but that would have been a stretch of hospitality of which
+none of his race could ever be guilty. He did a rare thing for an
+Indian--indulged in a grin of pleasure at the prize which his
+companions had passed by to allow it to fall into his possession.
+
+In his trying situation, Tim Brophy could not avoid a feeling of
+curiosity concerning Starcus. To him the fellow's conduct was
+inexplicable. While his presence among the Sioux was proof that he was
+"with them" in thought, intention, and feeling, yet there was the
+friendly act of the morning during the struggle with the grizzly, and
+his late interference to prevent the warrior from injuring him, which
+united to puzzle the captive.
+
+As has been said, he was too wise to build much hope on these facts, but
+nevertheless they raised doubts and questions relating wholly to the
+future.
+
+Would Starcus continue to hold his present enmity to the people that had
+been friendly to him?
+
+While he had been carried away by the frenzy that had driven so many of
+his people out of their senses, was not an awakening likely to take
+place, when his better nature would resume control? Could he forget
+that he had eaten salt with this hapless fellow, and stand by, without
+raising hand or voice, when his extremity should come, as come it must,
+in a very brief while?
+
+But these were questions that Tim Brophy could not answer; they must be
+left for the immediate future.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE FRIEND IN NEED.
+
+
+While these lively scenes were taking place, Warren Starr was not idle.
+The report of his gun was plainly heard by the other Sioux and the
+captive, but the former took it for granted that it was fired by their
+comrade, and calmly awaited his return with the news of the death of the
+fugitive.
+
+But as the reader has learned the boot was on the other leg. The youth
+was unharmed, and his enemy was of no further account.
+
+Actuated by the chivalrous wish to help Tim, he began cautiously picking
+his way along the slope, at a considerable distance from the base,
+peering forward and listening intently for sights and sounds that could
+tell him how his companion had fared.
+
+He had better fortune than he dared expect. The flickering of something
+among the trees warned him that he was in a delicate position, and his
+farther advance was with the utmost care, accompanied by glances on
+every hand, to guard against walking into a trap.
+
+Very soon he reached a point from which he saw all that was going on.
+Tim was standing defiantly among the Sioux, who appeared to be
+discussing the question of what to do with him. He identified Starcus,
+and recognized also the hapless state of affairs.
+
+Much as he regretted the conclusion, Warren Starr was forced, in spite
+of himself, to see that it was out of his power to raise a finger to
+help his friend. For one moment he meditated bringing his Winchester to
+his shoulder and opening fire, but at the best he could not hope to
+bring down more than two or three before the others would be upon him.
+With no possible way of escape open, the situation of Tim would be worse
+than before, for one of the first things done by the Sioux would be to
+slay him on the spot, whereas they were now likely to spare him for a
+time, and so long as he had life, so long did hope remain.
+
+Warren would have been as eager to befriend the brave fellow as the
+latter would have been to aid him; but, as we have said, there was no
+dodging the fact that it was out of his power. What, therefore, should
+he do for himself and the other loved ones for whom all this danger had
+been incurred?
+
+Where were that father, mother, and little sister? They might be in
+equally sore distress, and longer delay on his part perhaps would decide
+the question of life or death.
+
+Stealthily withdrawing again, until well beyond sight of the group, he
+began carefully descending the side of the ridge toward the open
+prairie. In doing so, he avoided doubling on his own trail, for at any
+moment some of the Sioux were liable to start out on a tour of
+investigation, which would bring them face to face with him.
+
+With all his senses on the alert, he threaded his way among the trees
+and around the rocks and bowlders, until he stood on the base of the
+elevation, with the broad plain, across which he and his friend had fled
+in such desperate haste, stretching out before him for many miles.
+
+But another sight interested him. Along the foot of the ridge were
+scattered nearly a dozen Indian ponies, cropping as best they could the
+grass, whose tops faintly showed above the thin coating of snow. Their
+owners had abandoned them in their haste, without thought of securing
+them to any of the limbs, confident that they would be found within
+reach when wanted.
+
+They were tough little animals, without saddle or bridle. The majority
+had a blanket roughly secured over the back, with a thong about the
+upper part of the neck, which was all that was needed to guide them
+wherever their masters willed.
+
+But there was one animal worth all the rest for whom the eyes of the
+youth eagerly searched among the group, scattered at varying distances.
+He would have given anything for a sight of his own Jack at that moment.
+
+To his astonishment, he saw nothing of him. Through some unaccountable
+cause, he had vanished as utterly as if he had never existed.
+
+In the vain hope of discovering him, Warren glanced from one to the
+other, until he had surveyed each one several times over. But there was
+no mistake; Jack was invisible.
+
+The fact caused him keen regret, but it would not do to tarry, with the
+certainty that the Sioux would soon learn the truth and be after him
+like a whirlwind. One or two of their ponies were almost as fleet as
+Jack, and Warren was a good enough horseman to ride them as well as
+their masters could without saddle.
+
+Fixing his attention on the best looking animal, which happened also to
+be the nearest, he moved briskly toward him, with the purpose of
+bounding upon his back and dashing away; but his abruptness defeated his
+intention. It frightened the pony, who with a snort threw up his head,
+trotted several rods out on the prairie, and then turned and looked at
+him.
+
+The alarm of this animal communicated itself to the others, who also
+hurriedly trotted beyond his reach.
+
+The situation was critical. The action of the ponies was almost certain
+to be heard by their owners a short distance off, and they would be
+quickly on the spot. If they caught sight of the youth on foot trying to
+steal one, his position would be far more hopeless than when among the
+rocks and trees.
+
+Seeing his mistake, Warren tried to right matters by a less abrupt
+approach. He dropped to a slow walk, holding out his hand and uttering
+soothing words. Had he done this at the beginning, he would have had no
+trouble in capturing any horse he desired, but the animals identified
+him as a stranger, and continued shy.
+
+The finest, which he had sought first to catch, closely watched him as
+he slowly approached, but at the very moment the heart of the youth was
+beating high with hope, he swung his head around and trotted beyond
+reach. Warren turned his attention to the one that was nearest, and by a
+sudden dash aimed to catch his halter, one end of which was dangling in
+the snow.
+
+As he stooped to grasp the thong, it was whisked from under his hand,
+and the pony galloped beyond his reach.
+
+The bitter disappointment made Warren desperate. He had undertaken an
+impossible task. He might succeed had more time been at his command, but
+the Sioux were liable to appear any minute. It would not do for him to
+be caught in this situation. He must abandon the attempt and get back
+among the trees and rocks, where there remained the bare possibility of
+eluding the red men.
+
+"What the mischief has become of Jack?" he muttered, facing about and
+breaking into a lope for the ridge. "If he were only in sight, he would
+come to me at once. Hello! just what I feared!"
+
+At that juncture he detected something moving among the trees. It was
+not clearly seen, but not doubting that the Sioux were coming, he broke
+into a run for cover, not daring to risk a shot until partial shelter
+was secured.
+
+In his affright he did not dare glance to the left even, and held his
+breath in thrilling expectancy, certain that with every leap he took he
+would be greeted by a volley, or that the Sioux would throw themselves
+across his track to shut off all chance of escape.
+
+That they did not do so was not only unaccountable to him, but gave him
+the hope that possibly he might still elude them. Bending his head, he
+ran with might and main. The distance was not great, but it seemed
+tenfold greater than it was, and a slip of the foot, which came near
+bringing him to his knees, filled his heart with despair and made him
+certain that he would soon join Tim Brophy.
+
+He heard his pursuers at his heels. Despite his own fleetness, they were
+outspeeding him. Nothing could save him from being overtaken before
+reaching the ridge.
+
+Suddenly a peculiarity in the sound made by those at his rear caused him
+abruptly to halt and look around.
+
+Then, to his unbounded delight and amazement, he recognized his own
+pony, Jack, striving hard to keep him company.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+THE PRAIRIE DUEL.
+
+
+Warren Starr could have hugged his pony in his transport of delight.
+Until a moment before he was sure several of the Sioux were upon him;
+when, wheeling about, he was confronted by Jack, whom he had been
+desirous of meeting above every other person or animal in the world.
+
+The action of the horse he understood. On the sudden flight of his
+master he had attempted to follow him among the rocks and trees of the
+ridge; the Indians, in the flurry of the occasion, paying no attention
+to him. Failing, he was making his way back to the open prairie, when
+the sight of his master sent him galloping after him; Warren being too
+panic-stricken to suspect the truth until he was well-nigh run down by
+the faithful animal.
+
+"Heaven bless you, Jack!" he exclaimed, with glowing face and joyous
+heart; "you are in the nick of time."
+
+Saddle and trappings were unharmed, though the tapering limbs of the
+creature had been scratched and cut by his attempt to follow his master.
+The youth was in the saddle in a twinkling, and, but for the sad
+situation of Tim Brophy, he would have uttered a shout of triumph.
+
+For in truth he felt safe, even though the hostiles were dangerously
+near. Remembering this, he rode farther out from the ridge, and whooped
+and swung his arms at the Indian ponies, who dashed still farther out on
+the plain.
+
+It was inevitable that this tumult should become known to the captors of
+Tim Brophy. Young Starr expected it, and therefore was not surprised
+when he saw the figures of several warriors at the base of the ridge. He
+could not forbear swinging his Winchester over his head and taunting
+them. They replied with several shots, but the distance was too great
+for Warren to feel any alarm. He, too, discharged his gun at the group,
+and acted as if he meant to challenge them to come out and attack him.
+
+If such were his intentions, the challenge was accepted. Several
+warriors ran out on the prairie, calling to their ponies, in order that
+they might mount and take up the pursuit. Their action caused the youth
+no alarm, for the test of speed had already been made, and he feared
+none of the Indian animals.
+
+The latter may have been under good discipline when their masters were
+astride of them, but they showed anything but obedience now that they
+were free from their control. They kept trotting about in circles, and
+avoided the warriors with a persistency that must have been exasperating
+to them.
+
+Only one displayed consideration for his master. He was among the
+fleetest, and after some coy dallying he stood still until the athletic
+Sioux came beside him. He vaulted upon his back, and then accepted the
+seeming challenge of the youth.
+
+The latter had checked his steed at a safe distance on the snowy plain,
+and confronted the Indian party. Looking beyond the warrior nearest him,
+he strove to catch sight of Tim Brophy; but he was too far off, and the
+trees interfered with his vision. Before he could continue the scrutiny
+long, the mounted Sioux demanded his attention.
+
+Prudence would have suggested that now, since young Starr was well
+mounted, he should take no chances, but scurry away at the top of his
+speed, leaving the discomfited warrior to nurse his chagrin over the
+clever trick played upon him.
+
+But the young rancher saw no reason why he should flee from a single
+buck, no better mounted or armed than himself. He had had enough
+experience in the Northwest to understand those people well, and thought
+he knew how to take care of himself. No, he would fight him; and now
+opened a most extraordinary prairie duel between Warren Starr and his
+dusky enemy.
+
+The youth glanced at his Winchester, and saw that it was all right, as
+was the case with his revolver. His saddle was firmly cinched in place,
+Jack was at his best, and what cared he for a single Indian, even though
+he was a warrior that had taken the scalp of more than one unoffending
+pioneer!
+
+Jack stood as motionless as a statue, with his nose toward his enemy. A
+gentle wind blowing across the prairie lifted his luxuriant mane
+slightly from his neck and swung his heavy tail to one side. His head
+was high, and the nostrils seemed to breathe defiance to the dusky foe,
+who approached at a swinging gallop, as though he meant to ride down the
+animal and rider.
+
+But he held no such intention. The Sioux required no one to tell him
+that that stationary figure, sitting so firmly in his saddle, meant to
+fight.
+
+While more than a hundred yards still separated the combatants the Sioux
+horseman wheeled to the right, and, without checking his speed, started
+to describe a long circle around the youth. The latter spoke softly to
+Jack, who slowly turned, so as to keep his head continually pointed
+toward the enemy. Evidently the animal understood the situation, and was
+competent to do his part.
+
+The Sioux at the base of the ridge had given over their effort for the
+time to capture their ponies. All their attention was centred on the two
+horsemen out on the prairie.
+
+As yet the Indian made no move to fire. Warren was looking for him to
+throw himself over the side of his animal, and aim from under his neck,
+screening his own body meanwhile from the bullet of the young rancher.
+Instead of doing so, however, he described a complete circle about
+Warren, coming back to his starting point, while Jack continued to move
+around, as if on a pivot, keeping his head always facing his foe.
+
+The warrior was starting on his second round, when, without any
+perceptible movement, he discharged his gun. Warren saw the blue puff of
+smoke, the report sounding dull and far away in the wintry air.
+
+The bullet did not pass nigh enough for him to be aware how close it
+was. It would seem that the Indian ought to have done better, for it was
+noticeable from where Warren sat that in completing his circle he had
+shortened it, and was now several rods nearer than when he set out to
+circumnavigate him.
+
+"It is no more than fair to return the compliment," thought Warren,
+raising his Winchester, taking careful aim, and pulling the trigger.
+Truth compels us to say, however, that his shot went as wide of the mark
+as the one aimed at him. Thus far honors were equal between them.
+
+The Sioux continued his trip around the central object, though what he
+expected or hoped to accomplish by this curious proceeding was more than
+his antagonist could conjecture.
+
+The advantage during the performance possibly was with young Starr; for,
+by keeping the nose of Jack pointed toward the other he offered the
+least possible target to the foe, while the course of the Indian
+compelled him to hold his pony broadside, himself remaining a
+conspicuous object on his back.
+
+"I think I can shorten this business," reflected Starr, "by another shot
+or two. I am standing still, and if I can't bring that fellow off his
+horse I'm of little account."
+
+But the Sioux was more watchful than he suspected. Hardly was the
+Winchester raised when, presto! the warrior disappeared. He had flung
+himself far on the other side of his pony, and was capable of
+maintaining that situation while making the circuit of the youth.
+
+The latter held his fire. He was confident of being able to hit the
+other animal, but to his mind that would be taking a dishonorable
+advantage, though none knew better than he that he was dealing with an
+enemy to whom treachery was a cardinal virtue.
+
+The horse showed no decrease of his speed, but continued galloping
+forward with the easy swing shown by the trained circus animal when an
+equestrian is giving an exhibition. That the rider, from his position on
+the other side of his body, with his moccason extended over the spine of
+the animal, was keeping close watch of the youth the latter did not need
+to be told.
+
+He must have seen Warren, after holding his weapon levelled for a
+moment, lower it again, disappointed at the vanishing target. The next
+moment the Sioux discharged his weapon.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+ON THE GROUND.
+
+
+The aim of the warrior was better than before, and though it was not
+fatal, it came startlingly near being so. The bullet nipped the ear of
+the pony, and cut through the coat of Warren Starr; grazing his shoulder
+in the passage.
+
+There could be no question that the red man was in dead earnest, and
+that when he discharged his rifle he meant to kill.
+
+It must not be supposed there was any holding back on the part of the
+youth; he was equally resolved that, if the chance were given, he would
+do his best to bring his antagonist from the back of his horse.
+
+The Sioux resumed his circling course, gradually drawing nearer the
+young man, who continued as alert as at the first; ready to take
+advantage of any opening that presented itself.
+
+Suddenly the red man wheeled his pony in the opposite direction,
+doubling on his own course. This compelled him to swing over to the
+other side in order to continue his use of the animal as a shield. He
+executed the movement with wonderful deftness, but a singular condition
+was against him.
+
+Young Starr had just formed the decision that the best, if indeed not
+the only thing he could do, was to shoot the steed of his foe. This was
+easy, and with the Indian dismounted he would be at a great
+disadvantage, though likely still to use the body of his animal as a
+guard against the marksmanship of his enemy; but the latter counted on
+the flurry giving him his opportunity.
+
+Thus it happened that at the moment the Winchester was at Warren's
+shoulder, and his eye was ranging along the barrel, he caught a glimpse
+of the dusky body in the act of whisking over that of the pony. The
+glimpse was only momentary, but under the peculiar conditions it was
+just what was needed. The youth fired, and with such accuracy that the
+warrior lunged over his steed, and sprawled in the snow on the other
+side.
+
+The released animal threw up his head with a snort, and trotted toward
+the ridge as if he, too, had felt the sting of the bullet and was
+hastening away from a possible repetition.
+
+The sight of the Indian on the ground told the youth of the success of
+his shot, but it did not lead him to do anything rash, as would have
+been natural in the flush of triumph. The Sioux was not yet killed, and
+was still capable of mischief.
+
+Warren rode rapidly a few yards toward him, and then brought Jack to an
+abrupt halt. He had seen something suspicious in the actions of his
+enemy.
+
+"Is he shamming?" was the question he asked himself, as he leaned
+forward, carefully keeping the head and neck of Jack in front of his
+body, and on the alert against a treacherous shot.
+
+The Sioux seemed to have fallen on his side, with his face turned partly
+away from the youth. With surprising quickness he shifted his position
+so as to confront the horseman, and still lay prostrate in the snow, as
+if unable to rise.
+
+There might be a sinister meaning to this. The pretence of being
+mortally disabled was an old one with his people, as many a white man
+has learned when too late. If he were trying the artifice in the present
+instance, he did it skilfully.
+
+Under the belief that he was powerless to inflict further harm, nothing
+was more natural than that the youth should ride forward with the
+purpose of giving him his quietus, disregarding his own safety until a
+bullet through the body should apprise him of his fatal oversight. It
+was this fear that checked Warren in the very nick of time.
+
+The one great obstacle in the way of the Sioux successfully playing this
+ruse was that he was in open view, where no movement on his part could
+be concealed. Were it in the wood, with rocks and trees at his command,
+the chances would have been far better for him.
+
+Warren Starr kept his eye fixed on him. It would have been easy, while
+seated on his own pony, to drive a ball through the miscreant, who was
+fully exposed to his fire, but it might be after all that he was badly
+wounded and unable to defend himself. If such were the case he could not
+commit the cruelty of firing at him again, even though the Sioux would
+have eagerly seized such a chance against a foe.
+
+It was for the purpose of learning the truth in the matter that Warren
+watched him with the utmost closeness, holding his own weapon ready to
+use the instant the other made a hostile demonstration.
+
+The action or rather inaction of the other Sioux at the base of the
+ridge was suggestive, and increased the suspicion of the young rancher.
+They were in a direct line with the one on the ground, so that Warren
+readily saw them without withdrawing his attention from his immediate
+antagonist.
+
+Instead of rushing out to the help of the latter they remained where
+they were, and continued the role of spectators. This looked as if they
+did not believe the fellow was in need of assistance, and they were
+simply waiting with confidence in the result of the piece of treacherous
+cunning.
+
+The warrior with his left hand drew his rifle round to the front. The
+weapon was a magazine one like Warren's, and it was one, therefore, of
+which it would not do to lose sight.
+
+The gun being in position for use, the owner, apparently with
+difficulty, raised the upper part of his body, so that it was supported
+on the left elbow. Then he essayed to call the right hand into play, but
+appeared to find a difficulty in doing so.
+
+Up to this moment Warren Starr had been trying to learn in what manner
+the fellow was wounded. The motion of his lower limbs showed no
+weakness, though it might have been there without appearing, so long as
+he held his prone position and did not call them into use.
+
+The action now indicated that his right arm was the one that had
+suffered, since it fumbled awkwardly and refused to give the needed help
+when called upon.
+
+Still all this might be pretence, intended to deceive the youth into
+uncovering himself. Warren did not lose sight of that probability.
+
+The action of the Sioux was precisely what it would have been had he,
+knowing that he was confronted by a merciless enemy, done his utmost,
+while badly wounded in the right arm, to bring his weapon to bear upon
+him. There was no hesitation or trouble with the left arm, but it was
+the other which, from appearances, refused to answer the call upon it.
+
+It was seen to move aimlessly about, but still was unable to help in
+aiming, and the hand could not manipulate the trigger--an impotence
+which, if actual, was fatal.
+
+But who can trust an Indian? Knowing that his slightest action could not
+escape the keen eyes of the youthful horseman a short distance away, was
+he not likely to direct every movement with the purpose of deceiving
+him?
+
+The truth must show itself soon; but be it what it might, Warren Starr
+had the comforting belief that he was master of the situation. He was
+unharmed, with his ready Winchester in such position that he could use
+it like a flash. As yet the Sioux had not brought himself to the point
+of aiming, and Warren was watching him so closely that he could
+anticipate his firing. He was resolved that the instant he attempted to
+shoot he would let fly, and end the singular prairie duel.
+
+It has taken considerable time to make all this clear, but the incidents
+from the fall of the Sioux to the close occupied but a few minutes.
+
+Young Starr spoke in a low voice to his pony, who began moving slowly
+toward the prostrate Indian, the rider holding his weapon ready as
+before. Jack took short and very deliberate steps, for he did not like
+the appearance of things. A man lying on the ground is always a
+disquieting object to a horse, and this one had already felt the sting
+of the Indian's anger when the bullet clipped a tiny speck out of his
+ear. Warren Starr was resolved to learn the truth, and he did so before
+Jack had advanced a dozen steps.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+A GOOD SAMARITAN.
+
+
+The young rancher was yet some distance from the prostrate foe, when his
+quick eye discovered something. It was a crimson stain on the snow near
+the stock of the Indian's rifle.
+
+The miscreant was wounded; he was not shamming.
+
+It was remarkable that with this discovery came an utter revulsion of
+feeling on the part of the youth. While he had been ready up to that
+moment to drive his bullet through the bronzed skull, an emotion of pity
+now took possession of him. He forgot that the fellow had tried with
+desperate endeavor to take his life, and he knew he expected no mercy at
+his hands. Nevertheless, as a Christian, he could not withhold his
+sympathy, nor could he forget that simple but sublime role of the good
+Samaritan.
+
+Touching his heels against the ribs of Jack, the pony increased his
+pace, but had not yet reached the prostrate figure when Warren
+experienced the greatest surprise of all.
+
+The Indian on the ground was Starcus!
+
+The next moment young Starr dropped from his saddle, and was bending
+over him.
+
+"I hardly expected this, Starcus," he said, with a gentle reproof in his
+voice. "You seem to have changed your mind since this morning, when you
+shot the grizzly."
+
+Indian though he was the fellow's painted face was darkened by an
+expression of deep pain, whether the result of his hurt or of his mental
+disquietude no one can say.
+
+"I am not your friend; I am the enemy of all white men."
+
+"You have proven that since you turned against those who would do you no
+harm. But I have no wish to reproach you; your arm is badly hurt; let me
+give you what help I can."
+
+"I want no help," replied the Sioux, resolutely compressing his thin
+lips; "go away and leave me alone."
+
+"I shall not; I am your master, and shall do as I please with you."
+
+"I tell you to leave me alone; I do not want your help," added Starcus
+fiercely.
+
+"You shan't hinder me, old fellow; this is for old times."
+
+And paying no heed to the sufferer, who struggled with pitiful
+awkwardness to keep him off, Starr ripped a piece from the lining of his
+coat, and began bandaging the bleeding arm. The Sioux still resisted,
+but while doing so showed a weakness rare in one of his race by fainting
+dead away.
+
+The youth made no effort to revive him until he had completed his hasty
+but rude swathing of the arm, which was badly shattered by a bullet.
+Then he flung some snow in the face of the fellow, who had already shown
+signs of coming to.
+
+Starcus looked around for a moment in a bewildered way, and then fixed
+his gaze on the wounded member, now bound so that the flow of blood was
+stopped. Then he turned his dark eyes on the face of the youth bending
+over him, with an indescribable expression, and said in a low voice:
+
+"I tried my best to kill you, Warren."
+
+"But you didn't; and I am unharmed, and am your friend."
+
+"And why are you my friend? I do not deserve it," continued the Sioux,
+with his black eyes still centred on the face of the athletic youth.
+
+"If you and I had what we deserved where would we be? Give it no further
+thought."
+
+Starcus now held his peace for a full minute, during which he never once
+removed his gaze from the countenance of the good Samaritan. Strange
+thoughts must have passed through his brain. When he spoke it was in a
+voice as gentle as a girl's.
+
+"Can you forgive me for what I have done?"
+
+"With my whole heart."
+
+"But I tried my best to kill you."
+
+"Are you sorry?"
+
+"Yes, sorry as I can be."
+
+"Then I repeat, I forgive you; but are you able to rise to your feet?"
+
+"Yes; I pretended I was not, so as to bring you closer to me. Had not my
+arm been hurt I would have shot you."
+
+"I am not sure of that," replied Warren, with a curious smile; "I
+suspected it, and was on my guard. At the first move on your part I
+would have fired. I was not sure even that you were hurt at all until I
+saw blood on the snow. But it will not do for you to stay here. Let me
+help you to your feet."
+
+Starcus proved that the rest of his limbs were uninjured by coming as
+nimbly as an acrobat to an upright posture.
+
+"You have done all you can for me, and I thank you; now do not wait any
+longer."
+
+"Why not?" asked Warren, suspecting his meaning, but desirous of testing
+him a little further.
+
+"Look toward the ridge," was the significant reply.
+
+The inaction of the other Sioux, as has been intimated, was due to their
+belief that Starcus was master of the situation. Even when they saw him
+pitch from the back of his pony they must have thought it a part of the
+strategy designed to lure the young man to his death.
+
+But the sight of the youth bending over the prostrate figure of their
+comrade told the truth. Starcus had been wounded, and was at the mercy
+of his conqueror.
+
+Much as the warriors were disappointed, they were not the ones to allow
+the brave fellow to be killed without an effort on their part to save
+him.
+
+Warren had suspected the truth, and, while seeming to be unaware of it,
+he observed several of the warriors running at full speed from the ridge
+out on the snowy prairie. They were still a goodly distance away, and he
+calculated just how far it was prudent to allow them to approach before
+appealing to Jack, standing within a few paces and awaiting his
+pleasure.
+
+He was hoping for just such a warning from Starcus as he had received.
+He wanted it as a "guarantee of good faith," and when it came all doubts
+of the sincerity of his repentance were gone.
+
+Still, although this particular Sioux might feel gratitude for the
+undeserved mercy shown to him, there was no hope of anything of that
+nature from his companions. Had Warren counted upon that, he would have
+made the mistake of his life. He and his friend had done the bucks too
+much ill to be forgiven for an act of kindness to one of their number,
+even though it was actuated by a motive whose nobility they could not
+fail to understand.
+
+"That is kind of you, to warn me of my danger," remarked the youth. "I
+shall not forget it. But they are so far off that I need not hurry to
+mount my horse."
+
+"Do not wait too long; they will soon be here."
+
+"I have my pony, and they are on foot."
+
+"But they can run fast."
+
+"I will leave in time; but, Starcus, if you are really a friend of mine,
+you have the chance to prove it by being a friend of Tim; he is a
+prisoner with your people, and in need of your good offices."
+
+"I cannot help him," was the reply, accompanied by a shake of the head.
+
+"I only ask that you shall do what you can; I am sure you will, whether
+it results in good to him or not."
+
+"Give yourself no hope of that; it will be hard for me to explain why I
+was spared by you."
+
+"But that was my own affair; surely they cannot suspect us of any
+collusion."
+
+"You do not know my people as I do."
+
+"But I am not the first white man that has shown mercy to a helpless
+foe; they know that as well as you and I."
+
+"You are waiting too long, Warren; they will soon be here," added the
+warrior, with an apprehensive glance toward the ridge, from which his
+people were approaching with alarming swiftness.
+
+"Well, good-by, Starcus."
+
+He grasped the left hand of the Sioux, who warmly returned the pressure
+with the words, "Good-by, Warren."
+
+Then Warren Starr, not a moment too soon, sprang into the saddle and
+galloped away.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVIII.
+
+THE LONE HORSEMAN.
+
+
+The young rancher had calculated matters closely, for hardly was he in
+the saddle when the foremost of the running Sioux halted, raised his
+gun, and fired. He was nigh enough to make his shot dangerous, though
+providentially it did no ill.
+
+It was an inviting chance for Warren to return the fire with the best
+prospect of doing so effectively. But he had no disposition to slay any
+one of the hostiles. His singular experience with Starcus had a
+softening effect, and he was resolved to attempt no injury against the
+men unless compelled to do it in actual self-defence.
+
+Jack, being put to his best paces, quickly carried him beyond any
+further peril, and when far enough to feel safe he checked the pony and
+looked back.
+
+He saw half a dozen Sioux gathered around the wounded Starcus,
+evidently in conversation. Being strong in his lower limbs, and with his
+wounded arm bandaged as well as it could be, he required no attention or
+help from them. After all, knowing the buck had been a close friend of
+the young rancher, they must have seen nothing remarkable in the mercy
+that had been shown to him. White men are as capable of meanness and
+cruelty as the Indians, but few of them disregard the laws of honorable
+warfare, and still fewer are deaf to the cry of a hapless foe.
+
+A few minutes later the group moved slowly back in the direction of the
+ridge. A couple, however, drew off, and began a more systematic hunt of
+the ponies that had shown such a fondness for their freedom. They
+managed matters with such skill that they soon coaxed a couple of the
+fleetest back to captivity. With the aid of these they soon corralled
+the others, and the party gathered with their animals at the base of the
+ridge.
+
+Warren Starr remained at a safe distance for the greater part of an
+hour, in the hope of learning something of the intentions of the Sioux.
+But they gave no sign that he could understand. The ponies were in plain
+sight near the trees, and he caught glimpses of their owners moving back
+and forth, but nothing could be learned as to what it all meant.
+
+He now debated what he should next do. He was free, well mounted, and at
+liberty to follow his own judgment.
+
+His immediate anxiety was concerning Tim Brophy. He knew he was in the
+most perilous strait of his life; Warren's parents might be as badly
+situated, but he had no knowledge of the fact. He therefore hoped for
+the best concerning them. But if there was any way of helping his friend
+it was beyond his power to discover it. He was a prisoner in the hands
+of a dozen watchful and treacherous Sioux, who were not likely to give
+him the least chance of escape, and any attempt on the part of Warren to
+befriend him would not only be utterly useless, but would imperil his
+own life.
+
+He had appealed to Starcus to make the effort, but Warren saw the force
+of the Indian's declaration that it was beyond his power. He was
+wounded himself, and at the first move to interfere in behalf of the
+captive, who had killed one of their best warriors and badly bruised a
+couple, would be likely to bring down their vengeance upon his own head.
+Distressing as was the conclusion, there was no escaping it--he must
+turn his back on his devoted comrade. Warren accepted the situation like
+a martyr, and had decided to continue his search for his folks, of whose
+whereabouts he had only the vaguest idea.
+
+Two lines of action presented themselves, and there was much to be said
+in favor of and against both. By sharp riding he could reach Fort Meade
+before sunset, and there whatever help he might need would be cheerfully
+given by the commandant. Under the guidance of the friendly Indian
+scouts, they could search for the rancher and his family; and their
+knowledge of the people, as well as the country, would render such
+search far more effective than any by the youth, without taking into
+account the force that would insure safety instantly on such discovery.
+
+But this plan involved considerable time, with the certainty that his
+folks must spend another night in imminent peril--a night that he could
+not help believing was to prove the decisive one.
+
+Knowing nothing of the death of Jared Plummer, Warren hoped that he was
+with his father, despite the gloomy prophecy of Tim Brophy. If the young
+rancher could join them, the party would be considerable, and ought to
+hold its own against any band of Indians such as were roaming through
+the country. Besides, all would be well mounted and prepared for flight
+whenever advisable.
+
+These and other considerations, which it is not necessary to name,
+decided the youth to make further search for his folks before riding to
+Fort Meade.
+
+One fact caused him no little speculation. It will be remembered that
+the approach of himself and Tim to the ridge was caused by the discovery
+of a thin column of smoke climbing into the sky from a more elevated
+portion than that attained by themselves or the Sioux with whom they had
+had the stirring encounter.
+
+He did not forget, either, that the red men with whom they had exchanged
+shots, and from whom he had escaped by the narrowest chance conceivable,
+appeared from the opposite direction. Neither then, nor at any time
+since, had anything occurred to explain the meaning of the vapor that
+had arrested their attention when miles away.
+
+If it had been kindled by Sioux or brother hostiles, why had they not
+appeared and taken a hand in the lively proceedings? Abundant time was
+given, and if they were there they ought to have met the fugitives at
+the close of their desperate chase, when they sprang from the back of
+Jack and dashed among the trees on foot.
+
+It was these questions which caused the youth to suspect that the fire
+might have been started by his father. True, he had expressed a
+disbelief in this view when given by Tim, but that was before the later
+phase had dawned upon him.
+
+It looked like a rash act on the part of the rancher, if he had
+performed it, but there might be excuse for his appealing to the signal
+that he had employed in a former instance to apprise his son of his
+location.
+
+Speculation and guessing, however, could go on forever without result.
+There was but one way of learning the truth, and that was to investigate
+for himself.
+
+Prudence demanded that the Sioux at the base of the ridge should be
+given no inkling of his intention; and, in order to prevent it, a long
+detour was necessary to take him out of their field of vision.
+
+Accordingly he turned so as to follow a course parallel to the ridge,
+and breaking into a swift canter kept it up until, when he turned in the
+saddle and looked back, not the first sign of the hostiles was visible.
+
+He was now miles distant, too far to return on foot, even had he felt
+inclined to abandon Jack and try it alone. He rode close to the base of
+the ridge, whose curving course was favorable, and facing about started
+back toward the point he had left after his survey of the party that
+held Tim Brophy a prisoner.
+
+He did not believe there was any special danger in this, for he had only
+to maintain a sharp lookout to detect the Sioux, if they happened to be
+journeying in that direction. The broad stretch of open plain gave him
+every chance he could ask to turn the fleetness of Jack to the best
+account: and he feared no pursuit that could be made, where he was
+granted anything like a chance.
+
+His purpose was to approach as near the spot as was prudent, provided
+they remained where he last saw them, and then, dismounting, penetrate
+nigh enough to learn the meaning of the smoke which was such an
+interesting fact to him. The task was a difficult one, for it was more
+than probable that by the time he reached the neighborhood of the signal
+fire it would be extinguished; for certainly his father would not
+continue the display after it had failed in its purpose, and the
+appearance of the hostiles showed him that it was liable to do more harm
+than good.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIX.
+
+A BREAK FOR FREEDOM.
+
+
+Accustomed as are the Sioux to scenes of violence, it is not probable
+that any members of the party to whom we have been referring ever looked
+upon a sight so remarkable as the prairie duel between Starcus and the
+young rancher.
+
+This Indian, who had come among his native people in the hope of staying
+the tide of frenzy sweeping through the tribe, was himself carried away
+by the craze, and from a peaceable, well-educated youth became among the
+most violent of those that arrayed themselves against the white man.
+
+It was one of the better impulses of his nature that led him to fire the
+shot when Tim Brophy was in such danger from the grizzly bear; but, as
+he afterward confessed, it was no sooner done than he reproached himself
+for not having turned his weapon against the two youths for whom he had
+once entertained a strong friendship.
+
+When the headlong Irishman started toward him, Starcus hurried away, and
+not only joined a band of prowling hostiles, but told them of the lads,
+and joined in a scheme to capture and hold them as hostages for several
+turbulent Sioux then in the hands of the Government authorities. Knowing
+them as well as he did, he formed the plan of stealing up behind them,
+while they were riding across the snowy prairie, and the partial success
+of the plan has been shown.
+
+His comrades watched the opening and progress of the strange duel with
+no misgiving as to the results. They saw how a run of wonderful fortune
+had helped the young rancher, but now, when something like equality
+existed between the combatants, the superiority of the American over the
+Caucasian race must manifest itself.
+
+As events progressed the interest of the spectators deepened. They
+descended to the edge of the plain, where the view was unobstructed,
+leaving but a solitary warrior guarding the prisoner. The solicitude of
+the latter for his friend was as intense as it could be, for he could
+not be sure of the result until the end. He feared that Warren Starr was
+committing the same rashness for which he had often chided him.
+
+The view from the rocks through the intervening trees was so imperfect
+that it grew to be exasperating, but there seemed to be no help for it.
+
+The warrior in charge of Tim Brophy was expected to give his full
+attention to him, but as events progressed there was danger of his
+forgetting this duty. He began to look more to the singular contest than
+to his captive.
+
+This Indian was standing on his feet, leaning forward, and peering as
+best he could between the trees and the obstructing limbs. Tim was
+seated on a bowlder at his side, and until this moment was the target of
+a pair of eyes that would have detected the slightest movement on his
+part.
+
+The Irishman was quick to observe that by the strange trend of events a
+golden opportunity had or was about to come to him. The warrior seemed
+to forget him entirely, though, like all his people, he would be
+recalled with lightning quickness on hearing or seeing anything amiss.
+
+Surely no such chance could come again. Convinced of this, Tim seized it
+with the rush of a hurricane.
+
+Rising quickly and noiselessly to his feet he delivered a blow as quick
+as a flash under the ear of the Sioux, which stretched him like a dead
+man on his face.
+
+There had been no noise, and in the excitement of the occasion the
+Indians at the base of the ridge were not likely to learn what had taken
+place until the revival of the senseless warrior, who was not likely to
+become of any account for several minutes.
+
+Tim needed no urging to improve his opportunity. Facing the top of the
+ridge, he started off with a single desire of getting over the rough
+ground as fast as possible.
+
+He had taken but a few steps, however, when he abruptly stopped.
+
+"Begorra!" he muttered, "but what a forgitful spalpeen is Tim Brophy!"
+
+He had no rifle. That would never do, when pursuit was inevitable in a
+short time. Accordingly, he turned about, ran to the prostrate figure,
+and took the gun from his grasp. It was not as good as his own, but
+inasmuch as that was in the possession of one of the others it was
+beyond recovery.
+
+It seemed cruel, but to make matters safe the Irishman gave the
+prostrate fellow a second vigorous blow, from which he was certain not
+to recover for a considerable while.
+
+"I hate to hit a man whin he is down," he reflected. "If I meets him
+ag'in I'll ax his pardon."
+
+It was no time to indulge in sentiment, and he was off once more.
+
+Some strange fate directed his steps, without his noticing the fact,
+along the trail made by Warren Starr in his first hurried flight. Thus
+it was that he came upon the other warrior that had been outwitted by
+the youth whom he was so confident of capturing.
+
+Urgent as was his hurry, the fugitive paused a moment to contemplate the
+sight. Then with a sigh he hurried forward, for not a moment was to be
+lost.
+
+It was remarkable that, after having captured the young man with so much
+difficulty, they should have invited him to escape, as they virtually
+did by their action, but the circumstances themselves were exceptional.
+The like could not happen again.
+
+It was the same curious turn of events that extended his opportunity. It
+is rare, indeed, that, after a captive does make a break for freedom, he
+is allowed such a period in which to secure it; but here again the
+unparalleled series of incidents favored him.
+
+There had been no outcry on the part of the third victim to Tim Brophy's
+good right arm. But for the forgetfulness of the youth in starting off
+without his gun, the fellow would have recovered speedily and made an
+outcry that must have brought several of his confederates to the spot.
+
+But events were interesting beyond compare out on the prairie. All the
+Sioux but the one named were watching them, and when they saw the plight
+of Starcus there was a general rush to his assistance. The return was
+slow, being retarded by the efforts of several to capture their
+wandering ponies. When they succeeded in doing this and coming back to
+the edge of the plains, the better part of half an hour had passed.
+
+The first startling recollection that came to the party after this
+return was the fact that the warrior who had pursued the young rancher
+up the side of the ridge had not put in an appearance. They would have
+awakened to this fact long before but for the affair between Warren
+Starr and Starcus. Now that it was impressed upon them, and they
+recalled the report of the gun that reached them long ago, together with
+the reappearance of the young rancher on the back of his pony, they
+could not fail to see the suspicious aspect of things.
+
+There was a hasty consultation at the base of the ridge, and then the
+man who was really the leader ordered a couple of his warriors to lose
+no time in learning the truth. As eager as he to investigate, they set
+out without delay, but had not gone far when one of them uttered a cry
+which brought the whole party to the spot.
+
+A striking scene greeted them. The white prisoner was gone, and the
+Indian left in charge lay on his face like one dead. His gun was
+missing. Strange proceedings had taken place during the absence of the
+party.
+
+It took but a few minutes to learn the truth. It was easy to see that
+the interest of the guard in the incidents on the plain had caused him
+to forget his duty for the time. The Irishman had suddenly assailed him
+with that terrible right arm of his, and felled him senseless to the
+ground.
+
+The recipient of this attention was not dead, but he felt as though he
+wished he was, when he was helped to a sitting position, and was
+compelled not only to suffer the pain of the terrific blows received,
+but had to face the jeering looks of his companions, who could forgive
+anything sooner than the outwitting of a full-grown warrior by a trick
+which ought not to have deceived a child.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXX.
+
+COMRADES AGAIN.
+
+
+Actuated by his resolution to learn the real meaning of the signal fire
+seen on the crest of the ridge, Warren Starr pushed on in the face of
+the fact that every rod in the way of advance increased his own peril.
+Studying the contour of the country, and carefully making his
+calculations, he was able to tell when he drew near the scene of his
+stirring encounter with the war party of Sioux. Deeming it unsafe to
+ride farther, he drew his pony aside, and, dismounting, led him among
+the rocks and trees, until he was beyond sight of anyone passing over
+the open country. He did not forget that a plain trail was left, which
+would serve as an unerring guide to those hostiles who might come upon
+it, but that was one of the risks of the undertaking which could not be
+avoided.
+
+"Now, Jack, my boy, I want you to stay right here till I come back
+again," he said, in parting from the animal. "You have been faithful and
+have served me well, and I can depend upon you, for you are sure to do
+the best you can."
+
+There could be no doubt on that point, and without any more delay he
+left the creature and began toiling up the ascent, his Winchester firmly
+in his grasp, and as alert as ever for the sudden appearance of his
+enemies.
+
+An astounding surprise was at hand.
+
+He had penetrated but a short distance from his starting point when he
+became aware that someone else was in the vicinity. He caught only a
+flitting glimpse of a person, who, descrying him at the same instant,
+whisked behind a bowlder for protection. Warren was equally prompt, and
+the two dodged out of each other's sight in a twinkling.
+
+"If there is only one Indian," reflected the young rancher, "I ought to
+be able to take care of myself--great Heavens!"
+
+The exclamation was caused by the sight of Tim Brophy, who stepped from
+behind the shelter and walked toward him.
+
+Young Starr was astounded, and believed for a minute that his friend had
+been put forward as a decoy, and that his captors were immediately
+behind him. But that dread was removed the next moment by the appearance
+of the young Irishman, who, advancing jauntily, called out in his cheery
+voice:
+
+"It's all roight, me boy! None of the spalpeens are here, and it's
+mesilf that would like to shake ye by the hand."
+
+That the two warmly grasped hands and greeted each other need not be
+stated. Even then Warren could only murmur:
+
+"Why, Tim, this is the greatest surprise of my life! Where in the name
+of the seven wonders did you come from? and how came you to give them
+the slip?"
+
+"It was that which helped me out," replied the other, holding up his
+clenched fist; "it b'ats all other wippons whin ye git into a tight
+corner."
+
+Not until the fellow had told his story could the other comprehend the
+amazing truth. Then he saw how a marvellous combination of
+circumstances had helped him, and how cleverly the quick-witted youth
+had turned them to account.
+
+"I must shake hands with you again," responded the delighted Warren. "I
+never knew of anything more remarkable."
+
+"Ye didn't think ye could give me any hilp," chuckled Tim, "but ye did
+it all the same."
+
+"How?"
+
+"Haven't I told ye that the little circus ye opened out on the plain
+drew away all the spalpeens but the single one lift to look after me?
+And don't ye understand that ye made things so interesting that he
+forgot me until I reminded him I was there by giving him a welt under
+the ear that he won't forgit in a dog's age?"
+
+"I see; but I never dreamed of any such result as that."
+
+"Nor did I, but it came all the same, and sarved me as will as if ye had
+fixed up the whole business."
+
+Noticing the strange weapon in his hand Warren referred to it, and then
+received the whole story.
+
+"Well, it beats anything I ever heard of. Jack isn't far off, and we can
+use him as we did before."
+
+"And may I ask what ye are doing here so close to the spalpeens, whin ye
+ought to be miles away?"
+
+"I set out to learn whether that fire whose smoke we saw was started by
+father or not. I didn't think so when you and I were talking it over,
+but can't rid myself of the suspicion till I find out for myself."
+
+Tim nodded his head, and said:
+
+"Yis; it was Mr. Starr that did it."
+
+"How can you know that?"
+
+"I've been there, and found out," was the surprising reply.
+
+"Where are he and mother now?"
+
+"Can't say; I'm looking for them. Whin I give the spalpeens the slip I
+did the best travelling I knew how, and without thinking of anything but
+getting away as quick as I could I coom right onto the spot where the
+fire had been burning. It hadn't gone out yit, but it was so nearly so
+that it give no smoke. Looking around it did not take me long to l'arn
+that two horses had been there----"
+
+"They had three with them, as you told me."
+
+"But they have only two now. I wouldn't have been sartin of the matter
+if I hadn't seen the print of yer mother's small shoe in the snow, and
+while I was looking I obsarved that of Dot, no bigger than Cinderella
+hersilf might have made."
+
+Warren was profoundly interested, and tears dimmed his eyes.
+
+"Was there no man with father?"
+
+"I couldn't see any footprints except his."
+
+"Then it has been as you said: Plummer was killed by the Sioux. But
+surely you noticed the direction they took?"
+
+"I did that same, and was following their trail whin I cotched sight of
+yersilf among the trees, and coom nigh shooting ye before asking for an
+inthrodooction."
+
+"Then they have passed nigh this spot?" asked the startled son.
+
+Tim partly turned and pointed behind him.
+
+"Right beyant is the thracks made by thimsilves and their animals, for
+the ground won't admit of their riding."
+
+"I wish it were otherwise," remarked Warren thoughtfully, "for I have
+had the hope that they might be so near the fort as to be safe. They are
+not, but we ought to join them quite soon. But, Tim," added his friend,
+as if alarmed by a new fear, "the Sioux must have learned of your flight
+long ago, and are now on your trail."
+
+"I must say that I'm forced to agree wid ye," was the reply of the
+Irishman, spoken as though the question was of trifling import.
+
+"It won't do for us to stay here. They are liable to appear at any
+moment," and the alarmed youth glanced apprehensively around, as if he
+expected to see the whole party of hostiles burst through upon them.
+
+"Jack is strong enough to carry us a long way," he added, "and since he
+is close at hand I can lead him out on the open plain, where we shall
+gain such a good start that there will be little chance of their
+overtaking us."
+
+"No doubt ye are corrict."
+
+"Then let's do it without throwing away another moment."
+
+He turned hurriedly to carry out his own purpose, when his comrade laid
+his hand on his arm and detained him.
+
+"I think, Warry," he said, in a low voice, "that ye've forgot one
+matter--yer fayther, mither, and Dot."
+
+"Gracious! how came I to do that? Here I set out to hunt for them, and
+when they were as good as found I turn my back upon them, and think only
+of my own safety."
+
+"Ye are excoosable, since ye have been upsit by the thrifling
+occurrences that have been going on this day."
+
+"Take me to the spot where you left their trail," added Warren, with
+unusual excitement, "and we'll never leave it until we join them; we
+shall escape or die together."
+
+The youths moved like those who knew that the question of life and death
+must be settled within a few minutes.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXI.
+
+THE LAST HOPE.
+
+
+The young ranchers had to go but a short distance, when they struck the
+trail left by their friends. The snow rendered it so distinct that the
+first glance told the story. Warren saw the track made by the feet of
+his father, mother, and little Dot. The consciousness that he was so
+near them profoundly affected the son.
+
+"There are several strange things about this," he remarked to Tim,
+halting for a minute before taking up the search in earnest; "we found
+it almost impossible for a horse to clamber up the ridge, and yet their
+two ponies have been to the very crest."
+
+"That's because they found an easy way to do it from the ither side,"
+was the sensible comment of Tim Brophy.
+
+"Of course, but father is away off the track. More than half a day has
+passed since he left home, and he is hardly a quarter of the way to
+Fort Meade."
+
+"He is just as near as we are, and he didn't start any sooner," was the
+significant remark of Tim Brophy.
+
+"But that was his destination when he set out, while our business has
+been to find him."
+
+"With no moon or stars to guide him last night, what means had he of
+keeping to the right coorse?"
+
+The question gave its own answer. The cause of this wandering was so
+self-evident that Warren Starr would not have asked it had he not been
+in such a state of mental agitation as a person feels when certain he is
+on the eve of some critical event.
+
+Reasoning with something like his usual coolness, the young rancher
+thought he saw the explanation of other matters which had puzzled him,
+but he bestowed little thought upon them, for his whole ambition for the
+time was to reach his parents.
+
+The trail which they were following led toward the open prairie, left by
+Warren but a short time before. It was evident that Mr. Starr was
+making for that, for their animals could not serve them so long as they
+continued in this rough section.
+
+"If I had been a little later," reflected the son, "I would have met
+them. That I did not proves that they cannot be far off."
+
+He was tempted to call or whistle, but that would have been rash, for if
+there was any one point on which he was certain, it was that the
+hostiles were hot on the trail of Tim Brophy. The real peril was from
+that direction, and several times he reminded the Irishman of the fact,
+though he needed not the warnings.
+
+A short distance farther and both stopped with an exclamation of dismay.
+The report of a weapon sounded from a point only a little way ahead.
+
+"That was not a rifle," said Warren, turning his white face on his
+companion; "it was a pistol."
+
+"Ye are corrict."
+
+"And it was fired by father."
+
+"I'm sure ye are right."
+
+"They have been attacked! come on! They need our help!"
+
+The youth dashed ahead, clambering over bowlders, darting around rocks,
+ducking his head to avoid the limbs, stumbling, but instantly regaining
+his feet, only intent on getting forward with the utmost possible speed.
+
+His companion found it hard work to keep up with him, but fortunately
+they had not far to run. Without the least warning of what was coming
+Warren Starr burst upon his astonished parents and little Dot, the rush
+being so impetuous that the rancher had his Winchester half raised to
+fire before he understood.
+
+At the feet of Mr. Starr lay the mare dead, killed by her master. While
+struggling over the rugged places she had slipped and broken her leg.
+The rancher mercifully put her out of her misery by placing the muzzle
+of his revolver to her forehead and sending a bullet through her brain.
+
+Mrs. Starr and Dot had turned away that they might not witness the
+painful sight, for they loved the creature. The arrival of the youths
+caused the mother to face quickly about, and the next moment she and
+her son were clasped in each other's arms, with Dot tugging at the coat
+of her big brother.
+
+"Warren, Warren, I guess you forgot me," she pleaded, when she thought
+the embrace had lasted long enough.
+
+"Forget you, my darling!" he repeated, catching her up and hugging the
+breath from her body; "never! we are together again, and only death
+shall separate us."
+
+The rancher had shaken the hand of Tim Brophy during this little
+by-play, and they exchanged a few words before father and son closed
+palms.
+
+Then the questions and answers came fast. Tim Brophy drew a little aside
+to where mother and child stood, and holding the tiny hand of Dot
+explained matters, while Warren did the same with his father.
+
+"Did you see us approaching when you started the fire?" asked Warren,
+after hurriedly telling his own story.
+
+"No, but I was quite sure, when your mother and I came to talk it over,
+that you would disregard my wishes about hurrying to the fort. We went
+astray in the darkness, and after a number of narrow escapes, as I have
+just related, found ourselves at the base of this ridge on the other
+side."
+
+"Did you recognize where you were?"
+
+"No; the points of the compass were all askew, and to save my life I
+couldn't get my bearings. But I was convinced that you were at no great
+distance, and decided to try the signal which Plummer and I had used
+before. Poor Plummer!"
+
+"Do you know anything about him?"
+
+Mr. Starr related what he had discovered, adding that the body was
+shockingly mutilated and stripped of its belongings.
+
+"The ascent of the ridge on the other side was quite easy, and we found
+no difficulty in leading the horses to the crest. There the fire was
+kindled. Knowing of the long stretch of level ground on this side, we
+set out without waiting to learn the result of the signal smoke. I knew
+that if you made your way to the spot where it was burning you would
+understand the situation, and the snow would show you how to follow us
+as fast as you desired."
+
+"Did you hear or see nothing of the Indians?"
+
+"We saw nothing of them, and were confident that the party with whom we
+had repeated encounters were thrown so far behind that we had good
+reason to believe they need be feared no longer. But all our hopes were
+scattered when we heard firing from the direction of the open plain.
+While fleeing from one party of hostiles we had almost run into another.
+I confess," added the father, "that for a minute I was in despair. Your
+mother, however, retained her courage, as she has from the first. She
+urged me to make for the level country, aiming for a point so far
+removed from the sounds of the guns that we would not be seen, unless
+some ill fortune overtook us. My haste in striving to do so caused the
+mare to fall and break her leg. I could not bear the sight of her
+suffering, and though I knew the danger of the act, I put her out of her
+misery with a pistol-ball through her brain."
+
+"You little dreamed that Tim and I had a part in the firing of those
+guns which so alarmed you."
+
+"No; it did not occur to me; but we must not make the mistake of
+supposing we are yet out of danger."
+
+The experiences that had been hastily exchanged awakened the ranchers to
+the fact that they were still in imminent peril, for the Sioux were
+certain to follow Tim Brophy vigorously, and at that moment could not be
+far off.
+
+Mr. Starr beckoned to his wife and Tim to approach.
+
+"You understand matters," he said, "and the question is, what is best to
+do?"
+
+"Why not continue our flight?" asked the wife.
+
+"I would not hesitate a second were we not so fearfully handicapped.
+There are four of us, not counting Dot, and we have but two animals,
+provided Warren's pony can be found, which I very much doubt. True, we
+men can walk or take turns in riding, but if we continue our flight,
+speed is indispensable, and we would make a sorry show in our crippled
+condition. We would be absolutely helpless on the open prairie against
+the Sioux, all of whom, Warren tells me, have excellent horses."
+
+The rancher had a scheme in his mind, but before making it known he
+wished the views of the others.
+
+"It's mesilf that thinks this," said Tim Brophy; "let us go wid yees to
+the ridge of the prairie, and there mount Mr. Starr on Jack, while Mrs.
+Starr and Dot can take the ither. Thin, what is to hinder yees from
+going like a house afire for the foort?"
+
+"But what of you and Warren?" was the natural question of the rancher.
+
+"We'll cover yer retr'at."
+
+"The proposal does more credit to your heart than your head, but I
+cannot entertain it."
+
+"Nor will I listen to anything which compels us to separate again,"
+added the son decisively. "I do not believe you can reach Fort Meade
+without another fight, and the absence of Tim and me would destroy hope
+from the first."
+
+"But my idea," persisted the Irishman, "was to keep the fight away from
+the folks and have all the fun oursilves."
+
+"That would do if it were possible to arrange the business that way,"
+said Warren, "but the Sioux are the ones who have the decision in their
+hands, and while we were doing our best others would slip off and attack
+father and mother. If we remain together it must be otherwise. If there
+ever was a situation where union is strength this is one of them."
+
+"I've exhausted me resoorces," said Tim, withdrawing a step, as though
+he had nothing more to say. Leaving the others to decide, he took
+Warren's Winchester from his unresisting hand, and began watching for
+the approach of the Sioux, who he was certain were following the trail
+through the snow.
+
+One fact was apparent to him, and he considered it no unimportant
+advantage. The pursuers would advance at a speed that must bring them
+into sight before they could surprise the fugitives.
+
+A glance around showed that the rancher could not have selected a
+better place for defence. The bowlders were on all sides, there being a
+natural amphitheatre several rods in extent. Kneeling behind these the
+whites had a secure protection against their enemies, unless they should
+make an overwhelming rush--a course of action which is never popular
+with the American Indian, inasmuch as it involves much personal risk to
+the assailants.
+
+It was at his suggestion that the others seated themselves on the ground
+while holding their conference. When the Sioux should appear it would be
+on the trail made by the party, so that the Irishman knew where to look
+for them. He, too, crouched down, with the muzzle of the Winchester
+pointed between two of the bowlders, ready to fire on the first glimpse
+of a target.
+
+Even the pony was forced to lie down near the lifeless body of his
+comrade. So it was that anyone might have passed near the irregular
+circle of bowlders without a suspicion of who were within it.
+
+"I have but the one proposition to make," said Warren, seeing that his
+father was waiting for him to speak, "and that is to stay here and fight
+it out. We are strong enough to hold the Sioux at bay for a good while,
+perhaps long enough to discourage them."
+
+"And what have you to say, Molly?"
+
+"I cannot feel as hopeful as Warren, but it really seems to me that that
+is the only recourse left to us."
+
+"I do not agree with either of you," remarked the rancher, feeling that
+the time had come to announce his decision. "I formed my plan some
+minutes ago. It is the only one that offers the slightest hope, and I
+shall insist on its fulfilment to the letter. It is that Warren shall
+leave at once, find his pony if he can, mount him, and ride with all
+haste to the fort for assistance. Tim will stay behind with us to help
+fight. The time for discussion is past; we must act. Warren, make ready
+to leave this minute."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXII.
+
+AWAY! AWAY!
+
+
+When George Starr announced his decision to any member of his family no
+one presumed to question it. Had the son been disposed to do so in this
+instance he would have refrained, for he believed, with his parent, that
+he had made known their last and only hope.
+
+"I will go, father!"
+
+He was in the act of rising to his feet, when Tim Brophy discharged his
+rifle.
+
+"I plugged him," was his comment, as he peered through between the
+bowlders; "the spalpeen wasn't ixpicting the same, but that one won't
+bother us any more."
+
+Being in the act of rising at this moment, Warren shrank back again,
+undecided for the moment what to do, but hesitation was fatal, as his
+father saw.
+
+"Go," he said; "don't lose an instant; they are not on that side; you
+can slip off without being seen."
+
+The youth saw the force of the words. Crouching as low as possible, with
+the Sioux rifle in his hand, he passed between the bowlders opposite to
+the point at which Tim had fired, and which, therefore, was in the
+direction of the open prairie.
+
+The move was one of those in which success depends wholly upon
+promptness. The Sioux would speedily dispose themselves so as to prevent
+anyone leaving, as soon as they found that the parties whom they were
+seeking were at bay among the bowlders. Fortunate, therefore, was it
+that no delay took place in the flight of young Starr, even though, when
+he started, the enemy was at the gate.
+
+It required no very skilful woodcraft for him to get away, since it was
+not anticipated by the Sioux, and he had the best means for concealing
+himself.
+
+There had been one idea in the mind of the rancher, which he would have
+carried out but for the sudden appearance of the Indians; that was for
+his son to take the remaining pony with him. The fugitives could make no
+use of him, and should it prove that Jack was gone, his owner would not
+be without the means of pushing to Fort Meade for help. Circumstances,
+however, prevented that precaution. It never would have done to attempt
+to take the remaining pony. Warren quickly vanished among the trees and
+bowlders, and the Rubicon was crossed.
+
+But Jack was found just where he had been left, patiently awaiting the
+return of his master. The pursuit of Tim Brophy by the Sioux had led
+them in a different direction, though, had the flight of Warren been
+postponed for a short time, the steed must have fallen into the hands of
+the enemy.
+
+The heart of the youth gave a bound of delight when he came upon the
+animal.
+
+"Follow me, Jack," he said cheerily; "if you ever did your best, now is
+the time. The lives of us all depend upon you. Have a care, my boy, or
+you will slip."
+
+In his eagerness the youth descended the slope faster than was prudent.
+Jack did slip, but quickly recovered himself, and no harm seemed to
+have been done.
+
+It was but a short way to the edge of the prairie, where the pause was
+long enough to see that the trappings were right, when the young rancher
+swung himself into the saddle, twitched the rein, and said:
+
+"Come!"
+
+The gallant fellow, with a sniff of delight, sprang away, and sped with
+a swiftness which few of his kind could surpass. The snowy plain
+stretched in front, and he darted over it as though his hoofs scorned
+the earth. The still air became a gale, which whistled about the ears of
+the youth, who felt the thrill that comes to one when coursing on the
+back of a noble horse to whom the rapid flight is as pleasant as to the
+rider.
+
+It was now near meridian. A long distance remained to be passed, and
+since a goodly portion of it was rough and precipitous, the young
+rancher felt little hope of reaching Fort Meade before nightfall.
+
+"If we could have such travelling as this," he reflected, "we would be
+there in a few hours, but there are places where you will have to walk,
+and others where it will be hard work to travel at all."
+
+It was a discomforting thought, but it was the fact; since the youth was
+not following the regular trail leading from the ranch to the fort at
+the foot of the Black Hills. But his familiarity with the country and
+the daylight ensured him against going astray; he was certain to do the
+best possible thing under the circumstances.
+
+Two miles had been passed at this brilliant pace, and Warren was as
+hopeful as ever, when he became aware of an alarming truth, and one
+which caused a feeling of consternation--Jack was falling lame. That
+slip made in descending the lower part of the ridge, just before his
+owner mounted him, was more serious than he had suspected. It had
+injured the ankle of the horse so that, despite the gallantry with which
+he struggled, it not only troubled him, but with every leap he made over
+the plain it grew worse.
+
+It was a condition of things enough to cause consternation on the part
+of the rider, for it put an end to his hope of reaching the fort that
+day. True, he could continue the advance on foot, but, doing his utmost,
+he could not arrive before late at night--so late, indeed, that no help
+would be sent out before the morning, and they could not reach the
+beleaguered fugitives until late on the following day.
+
+"Can they hold out until then?"
+
+That was the question which was ever in the young rancher's mind and
+which he dare not answer as he believed the probabilities required.
+
+There was no getting away from the fearful truth. The vigilance of his
+father and Tim might enable them to stand off the Sioux as long as
+daylight lasted. Each had an excellent magazine rifle, for it will be
+remembered that he had exchanged weapons with his young friend, but
+there was not only a formidable party of bucks surrounding them,
+shutting off all possibility of their slipping off during the darkness,
+but other Sioux were in the neighborhood who could be readily summoned
+to the spot.
+
+Darkness is the favorite time with the red men when moving against an
+enemy, and they would probably make no determined demonstration until
+the night was well advanced. Then, when they should rush over the
+bowlders, nothing could save the fugitives. Should this emergency arise,
+Warren Starr felt that everything was lost, and he was right.
+
+He weakly hoped that Jack would recover from his lameness, but all know
+how vain is such an expectation. The injury rapidly grew worse, so that
+when the animal dropped his gait to a trot and then to a walk, Warren
+had not the heart to urge him farther.
+
+Slipping from the saddle he examined the hurt. It was near the fetlock
+of the left hind leg. The skin was abraded; the ankle evidently had been
+wrenched. It was swollen, and when the youth passed his hand gently over
+it, the start and shrinking of the creature showed that it was
+excessively painful to him.
+
+"It's no use, Jack," said the lad; "I know you would give your life for
+me, but you can't travel on three legs, and I'm not going to make you
+suffer when it can do us no good."
+
+Manifestly there was but one course open--that was to abandon the pony
+and press on as fast as he could on foot. Jack could get along for a day
+or two, and his master would not forget to look after him on the first
+opportunity.
+
+There was no call to burden himself with the saddle and bridle, but they
+would prove an incumbrance to the animal if left upon him, and his owner
+was too considerate to commit the oversight.
+
+In riding so fast the young rancher had followed the general course of
+the ridge, so that on halting he was quite near it. He now turned to his
+right, calling upon Jack to follow.
+
+The action of the pony was pitiful. When he bore a part of his weight on
+the limb, after the brief halt, it had become so painful as to be almost
+useless. Nevertheless he hobbled forward until the foot of the slope was
+reached.
+
+Here Warren removed the trappings. His blanket being rolled behind the
+saddle, he spread it over the back of the horse and secured it in
+place.
+
+"It is all I can do for you, Jack," he said tenderly, "and it will give
+you protection against the cold. You will be able to find a few blades
+of grass here and there where the snow has not covered them, and the
+buds of the trees will give some help. The snow will prevent your
+suffering much from want of water. Perhaps a good long rest will improve
+your ankle so that you can use it. If it does," and here the young
+rancher spoke impressively, as though he expected his steed to
+understand his words, "I want you to start for the fort; don't forget
+that!"
+
+He touched his lips to the forehead of his faithful ally, who looked
+after his young master, as he walked away, with an expression almost
+human in its affection. But there was no help for it, and with a sad
+heart, but the determination to do his utmost, Warren Starr resumed his
+journey toward Fort Meade.
+
+Not long after parting with his pony he came upon something which caused
+him surprise. In the snow directly in front appeared the footprints of a
+single horse that had passed over the ground on a run, taking the same
+direction that the youth was following.
+
+His experience with horses told the youth at a first glance that the
+animal was travelling at his utmost speed. The trail swerved inward from
+the open plain, as though the rider had sought the base of the ridge for
+his protection.
+
+Had there been several ponies coursing ahead of him, he would not have
+found it so hard to understand matters, for he would have concluded that
+they were an independent party, making all haste to reach some point,
+but he could not read the meaning of a single warrior speeding in this
+fashion.
+
+"Whoever he was he lost no time," mused Warren, breaking into a loping
+trot, for his own haste was great.
+
+Had he not known that poor Jared Plummer was no longer among the living,
+he would have thought it possible that he was making for Fort Meade. He
+wondered whether it could not be a white man engaged on a similar
+errand.
+
+The probabilities were against this supposition. He knew of no rancher
+in the neighborhood of his old home, and it would seem that no white man
+would ride with such desperation unless pursued by a relentless enemy,
+and he saw no evidence of such a contest of speed.
+
+True, the pursuers might have been farther out on the prairie, but their
+trail would have joined that of the fugitive ere long, so as to make the
+line more direct; but though the young rancher trotted a full half mile
+before checking himself and looking around, he discovered no signs of
+others.
+
+The last advance of Warren brought him close to the precipitous section
+which, knowing well, he had feared would prove too difficult for his
+pony. Raising his eyes to survey it and fix upon the best line to
+follow, he caught sight of the horseman he had been following.
+
+His animal was on a deliberate walk, and coming directly toward him. The
+youth stopped short. As he did so he perceived that he was an Indian
+warrior. Warren brought his rifle round in front, with no intention of
+running from him or taking advantage of the cover near at hand.
+
+The Indian raised his hand, and oscillated it as a signal of comity. As
+he did so the two were so near that the youth perceived that the arm was
+bandaged. Something familiar in the appearance of the horseman struck
+him at the same moment, and the young rancher lowered his weapon with
+the exclamation:
+
+"Starcus!"
+
+It was he, and as he rode forward he had a strange story to tell Warren
+Starr.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXXIII.
+
+BREAD CAST UPON THE WATERS.
+
+
+When the Sioux who had rushed out on the open plain to the help of the
+wounded Starcus gathered around him they were quick to perceive that his
+life was due to the mercy of his conqueror, but their hostility toward
+the latter was not diminished one whit by the discovery; they were as
+eager for his life as ever, and proved it by firing several shots after
+him as he rode away.
+
+The wounded arm was bandaged in a piece of the lining of Warren Starr's
+coat. The crimson stain showed through the cloth, though the flow of
+blood was checked. Sound and unhurt as was Starcus in all other
+respects, he was unable to use the injured limb, and was therefore as
+useless in any impending hostilities as if out of existence.
+
+As the party moved back toward the base of the ridge there was a
+consultation among them as to what was best to do. Starcus expressed a
+more venomous rancor than ever against the white people, and especially
+against the one that had brought him low. He regretted that he was to be
+helpless for weeks to come, with a permanent injury for life.
+
+When the leader of the band suggested that he should return to the
+nearest village and remain until able to take the warpath again, he
+vehemently opposed it. He was not willing to retire in such a
+humiliating manner, but the leader insisted, and after sulking a while
+the "civilized" Indian consented.
+
+Being a capital horseman, he leaped unassisted upon his pony, and
+unwilling in his anger so much as to bid the warriors good-by, he struck
+the animal into a swift gallop, heading toward the village, where he was
+expected to stay until fully recovered.
+
+The action of the warrior was singular. After riding some distance he
+glanced behind him at the ridge he had left. He seemed to be in an
+irritable mood, for he uttered an impatient exclamation and urged his
+beast to a faster gait. His wound pained him, but the agitation of his
+mind and his own stoical nature caused him to pay no heed to it. Indeed
+nothing more could be done for the hurt.
+
+When he looked back the second time he had reached a point for which he
+had been making since his departure. He was out of sight of any of his
+people who might be watching him.
+
+An abrupt change in the course of his pony was instantly made, and he
+sent him flying at the height of his speed. Strange as it may seem, he
+was aiming for the same point toward which Warren Starr started some
+time later.
+
+He did not spare his animal. He went like a whirlwind, and as though his
+life depended upon reaching his destination without delay. Warren Starr
+read the trail aright when he interpreted it as meaning that the pony
+before him was going as fast as he could.
+
+Starcus was picking his way, still mounted, over the rough section where
+the youth had expected to meet great difficulty with his animal, when
+he suddenly discovered that white people were immediately in his front.
+He drew up, and was in doubt for a minute whether to flee or hold his
+ground.
+
+A squad of cavalry from Fort Meade confronted him. They numbered nearly
+twenty, under the command of a young lieutenant, a recent graduate of
+West Point. They were accompanied by a couple of Indian scouts familiar
+with the country.
+
+Starcus was quick to make a signal of friendship, and then rode forward
+to meet the soldiers, who had halted upon seeing him.
+
+The Sioux was well known to the two Indians, the officer, and several of
+the cavalry. They knew he had joined the hostiles, and were therefore
+suspicious of him. This fact rendered his self-imposed task one of
+considerable difficulty. But after a while he convinced them of his
+honesty.
+
+The lieutenant had been sent out by the commandant at Fort Meade to
+bring in the rancher and his family, their scouts having reported them
+in imminent danger. Starcus explained that the parties for whom they
+were looking were at no great distance, having left the ranch the night
+before to hasten to the fort. One of the ranchmen had been killed, and
+the rest were in great peril. Starcus said he had started to ride to the
+fort for help, and it was most fortunate that he encountered it so near,
+when the passing moments were beyond importance.
+
+The young officer was sagacious. He could have asked some very
+embarrassing questions relating to the wound of the messenger, but he
+wisely forbore. It is not best at all times to let a person know how
+much is plain to you and how much you suspect. Evidently Starcus was
+earnest in his desire to befriend the imperilled ones; the fact that he
+was journeying alone in the direction of the fort constituting the
+strongest evidence.
+
+He explained that the ridge where he believed the whites were doing
+their best to escape the Sioux was much more approachable from the other
+side. He described the ground minutely, and the two scouts present
+confirmed the accuracy of his statements.
+
+When the lieutenant proposed that Starcus should act as their guide the
+truth could no longer be kept back. He made a clean breast of
+everything.
+
+He had been with the hostiles. He was among the fiercest. He had tried
+to shoot young Starr, who, more fortunate than he, brought him wounded
+from his horse. When he lay on the ground, at his mercy, the young man
+rode up, spoke words of kindness, and bandaged his wound.
+
+And in doing this the youth proved more of a conqueror than he had done
+by his excellent marksmanship. He won the heart of the Indian, who was
+now eager to prove his gratitude by any act in his power. He
+unhesitatingly answered that he would serve as the guide to the cavalry.
+
+But once again the officer displayed rare tact. If Starcus was sincere
+in his newly awakened friendship for the whites, it might be in his
+power to accomplish a great deal of good by going among his people and
+using persuasion and argument; but if he should appear as an active ally
+of the whites such power would be gone, and it would be unsafe at any
+time in the future to trust himself among them.
+
+"No," replied the lieutenant; "return to your own people; do what you
+can to show them the mistake they are making in taking the warpath; you
+may effect much good. My guides will do as well as you to direct us to
+the spot where the whites are in urgent need of our help. You say it is
+not far, and I am hopeful that we shall be in time to save them."
+
+Accordingly Starcus parted from the cavalry, and was on his return to
+join his people and to attempt to carry out the wise suggestion of the
+officer, when he encountered the young rancher making all haste on foot
+to secure the help which was much nearer than he had dared to hope.
+
+After exchanging friendly greetings, Starcus told the story which the
+reader has just learned.
+
+Warren listened with amazement and delight. He had, indeed, heaped coals
+of fire upon his enemy's head by his forbearance, and the bread cast
+upon the waters had returned before many days.
+
+"You have acted nobly," was the comment of the youth.
+
+"Can it undo the harm of the last few days?" asked the Indian, with a
+troubled expression.
+
+"Far more, for I am sure the timely news given to the lieutenant will
+save my people."
+
+"And yet I was their enemy."
+
+"And are now their friend. You lost your head in the frenzy that is
+spreading like a prairie fire among your people; your footsteps were
+guided by Providence, otherwise you would have missed the cavalry; they
+would have ridden to the ranch, and my folks would have been left as
+much without their help as though the soldiers had stayed at the fort.
+Besides," added the young rancher, "you can do as the officer
+suggested--show your own people the right course for them to follow."
+
+"I will try," replied Starcus firmly; "I cannot understand how it was my
+senses forsook me, but they have come back, and," he said, with a
+meaning smile, "I think they will stay."
+
+"I am sure of that, and you will do much good."
+
+"Well, good-by," said Starcus, reaching down his unwounded arm. "I hope
+we shall meet again under pleasanter conditions."
+
+Warren warmly pressed the hand and stood for a minute gazing after the
+strange fellow, who rode toward the nearest Indian village with the
+determination to carry out his new intentions.
+
+It may as well be said that he honestly did so, and there is little
+doubt that his work was effective in more than one respect, and did much
+to ameliorate many phases of the sad incidents that speedily followed.
+
+Left alone once more, the young rancher stood for some minutes in doubt
+as to his right course. It was idle to push on to the fort on foot, and
+he was at much disadvantage, now that he had no animal at command. He
+decided to follow the cavalry.
+
+He had forgotten to ask Starcus how far off they were, but judged the
+distance was not great. The trail of the Indian's horse gave him the
+necessary guidance, and he broke once more into his loping trot,
+despite the rough nature of the ground.
+
+A half-hour sufficed to take him to the scene of meeting, when he turned
+and began following the footprints of the horses at a faster gait than
+before.
+
+Inasmuch as he was now a goodly number of miles from the bowlders where
+his friends were at bay before the attacking Sioux, he hardly expected
+to reach the place in time to take a hand in the decisive scenes or even
+to witness them. Starcus had left such accurate directions, and the
+Indian guides were so familiar with everything, that little delay was
+probable.
+
+The distant sound of firing spurred him to still greater speed, and he
+ran so fast and hard that ere long he was compelled to drop to a walk to
+regain his breath.
+
+Great as was his hope, he felt much misgiving. The cavalry might arrive
+in time, but in the flurry sad mishaps were probable. It might be that
+his father or mother or Dot or Tim had fallen before the vigilance of
+the assailants. He could not feel any real happiness until he learned
+beyond peradventure that all was well.
+
+The shot fired by Tim Brophy the instant he caught sight of the warrior
+hurrying along the trail, with no thought that he was so close to the
+whites, was the best thing in every way that could have happened, for it
+not only wiped out the rash miscreant, but told those immediately behind
+him that the fugitives were at bay and ready to fight to the bitter end.
+
+There was an instant withdrawal beyond reach of the rifles, of whose
+effectiveness they had received more than one striking example that
+night.
+
+It took a considerable while for the Sioux to learn the whole truth. The
+fugitives had intrenched themselves in what was undoubtedly the most
+secure position near, and were on the watch. Gradually working round so
+as to enclose them against flight, the trail of the young rancher was
+discovered. A little investigation made known that he had mounted his
+pony and started off for assistance.
+
+But help was no nearer than Fort Meade, and, as the Indians naturally
+thought, it could not possibly arrive before the morrow. If this were
+so, abundant time remained in which to encompass the destruction of the
+defenders. The Sioux decided to maintain watch, but to defer the
+decisive assault until late at night.
+
+And it was this decision that saved the little party. Within the
+following two hours the friendly scouts reported the situation to the
+lieutenant of cavalry, who began his arrangements for an immediate
+attack upon the hostiles.
+
+The latter, however, were as watchful as their enemies, and were quick
+to learn their new danger. They withdrew and disappeared after the
+exchange of a few shots, fired under such circumstances that no harm was
+done on either side.
+
+The rescued whites were conducted to the foot of the ridge on the other
+side, where they were so disposed among their friends that all were
+furnished with transportation, and the journey to Fort Meade was begun,
+or rather resumed so far as they were concerned.
+
+Not far away they met the young rancher, breathless and in an agony of
+distress. His joy may be imagined upon learning the happy truth. All
+were saved without so much as a hair of their heads being harmed.
+
+The next day Warren returned for his pony, and found him so much better
+that he was able to walk with little trouble. The youth was too
+considerate to ask him to carry any load, and the two made the journey
+with the rider on foot.
+
+And so it came about that Providence mercifully extricated our friends
+from the danger which threatened more than once the ruin of all.
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Young Ranchers, by Edward S. Ellis
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