f a few moments only, and we were off.

We soon struck the Comanches' trail and followed it in a north-easterly
direction for three or four hours, when Jerry turned to me and said,--

"I was afraid of this, judge. Them varmints hev struck a 'bee-line' for
the Pecos; and if we don't ketch 'em afore they cross it and git into the
Llano, [The Llano Estacado, or staked plain; a favorite resort of the
Comanches. It is about four thousand feet above the level of the ocean,
and entirely destitute of wood and water.] that's the end on 'em, as fur
as we're concarned, so I reckon we'd best hurry on."

[Illustration: Trailing.]

Uttering the single word, '_Adelante!_' or 'Forward!' we started in
a brisk canter. It was a beautiful morning and the trail was easily
followed.

Our animals were fresh, and everything appeared favorable for the success
of our expedition, especially as we realized that the progress of the
Indians must necessarily be somewhat impeded by the large number of
animals they were driving before them.

The trail followed the course of the river for several miles in the
direction of the Concho Springs; but, at last, turned abruptly to the
left, and commenced the ascent of the great "divide" which separates the
waters of the Pecos from the headwaters of the San Pedro, leading us
directly towards the former stream.

For many hours we rode, hoping each moment to obtain a sight of the
Indians. No stops were made, except to permit our animals to drink a few
swallows from the streams we crossed, or when we removed the saddle and
bridle and gave them an opportunity to enjoy a roll in the tall grass
through which we passed; and as twilight settled around us, both men and
animals began to show unmistakable signs of fatigue, and it became
evident that we must halt for rest and supper. While discussing the
subject with Jerry, he suddenly grasped my bridle-rein, and pointed out a
bright speck on the distant horizon.

"St! there they be!" he exclaimed. "That's them. The fools didn't 'spect
ter be follered, and they've lighted some rosin weeds ter cook their
supper with. We've got 'em, sartin."

A halt was ordered; and, in an incredibly short time, our animals were
picketed, Jerry and Don Ignacio had started out for a _reconnoissance_
of the Comanche camp, and the men were enjoying a hearty supper.

I was greatly amused to see the facility with which they accommodated
themselves to the situation. No sooner were their