from which the Indians would naturally look
for pursuit.

When close enough to catch sight of the flames among the trees, the
hunters sank on their knees and crept noiselessly forward until able to
gain a full view of the dusky thieves. They were surprised at what they
saw. The savages had thrown some logs and stones together so as to make
a couple of rude forts and had divided themselves into two parties. It
was characteristic of them that they were holding a dance and feast in
honor of the brilliant style in which they had outwitted the trappers
forty miles away.

The scene was quite interesting, especially when our friends plainly
saw their stolen animals tied near one of the forts. The sight of their
property was anything but soothing to the wrathful trappers, who were
resolved not to go back to their own camp without taking the horses
along.

But the Crows were strong in numbers, well armed and ready to fight on
the briefest notice. It would have been an act of the greatest rashness
to charge upon their camp, while they were excited to an unusual degree
by the rejoicing in which all took a hilarious part. The whites decided
to wait several hours longer until most of their enemies would be
unconscious in slumber.

All this time the weather was growing colder, and, toughened as the
trappers had become by years of exposure, they suffered greatly. They
dare not move about to keep up the circulation of their blood, for the
slightest noise was liable to attract the suspicion of some of the Crows
who might be prowling through the grove. More than once Carson feared
his limbs were freezing, but he held out like the genuine hero he was,
and his companions were all worthy of him.

At last the dance was over and the tired warriors wrapped their blankets
around their forms and stretched out to rest. Their manner showed they
had no thought that a foe was anywhere in the neighborhood. Although
such men sleep lightly, they do not remain long awake when courting
sleep, and in a brief while all were unconscious except the sentinels
on duty. Even they were so confident that nothing threatened, that they
became less vigilant than usual.

"Sh! now is the time," whispered the youthful leader. They had decided
long before upon their plan of action, so that no time was now lost in
consultation. Kit and five of his men began slowly creeping toward their
horses. This was anything but a pleasant occupation, for the snow, it
will be