o
some distance before we could obtain a view of the surrounding country.

Leaving the horses in the stable, and the entrance open, we set out.
Then going some distance down the hill, we made our way through the
thick wood which covered its sides, and were just emerging into the open
space, when, through the bushes, I caught sight of several horsemen
galloping across the country. I made a sign to my companion to keep
concealed, and crept forward on my hands and knees. As I looked out, I
discovered the object of the Indians. A solitary waggon had just come
into view, and they were about to attack it.

I drew cautiously back, for though the Indian warriors were probably
intent on the business in hand, their keen eyes might have detected me.
I asked Samson if we could assist the unfortunate people in the waggon.

"I fear not," he answered. "We might kill a few of the Redskins; but
unless the travellers possess a number of rifles, and make a bold stand,
we cannot help them. We will, however, be ready to take a part if we
have opportunity."

As the horsemen approached, three rifles alone opened fire upon them
from behind the waggon. One of their number fell, but several dashed
forward; while others, circling round, prepared to attack the devoted
emigrants from the opposite side. The affair, which was a short one,
was dreadful to witness. We should, I saw well enough, lose our lives
did we show ourselves. Indeed, before we could have got up to the
waggon, all its defenders were killed by the savages surrounding it; and
we knew too well that those inside must, according to their cruel
custom, have been put to death, whether women or children. The Indians
of the plains have no compassion either for age or sex. The dreadful
thought occurred to me that those we had seen slaughtered might be our
own friends. It was evident, however, from his calmness, that the idea
of such a thing had not crossed old Samson's mind.

After plundering the waggon of everything they considered of value, the
savages set it on fire. While it was burning, and they were still
gathered round it, a dreadful explosion took place, scattering
destruction among them. Panic-stricken, and not knowing what might next
happen, the survivors mounted their horses and galloped off. A keg of
powder, which they must have overlooked, had probably exploded.

"They deserve their punishment," said the old man, "and they will not
come back again in a hurr