repel an attack. Had his tribe
been alone he would have moved westward to escape from them, as his
object at present was to kill buffalo, and lay in a winter store of
pemmican.

There was little sleep for any of the party that night. The Indians
were preparing to set out on the war-path, while my companions sat up
not knowing at what moment the Coomanches might burst upon us, and I was
kept awake by the pain my legs continued to cause me. Yellow Wolf, on
seeing how much I suffered, sent his wife over with a supply of salves
to doctor me.

The night, however, passed away in quietness: and when the scouts
returned in the morning they reported that they had been unable to
discover any traces of an enemy. We therefore remained in camp, both
for my sake, and Charley's; while all hands were employed in
manufacturing pemmican. The rest, and the care bestowed upon me by the
Flower of the Prairies, had so beneficial an effect that in the course
of a couple of days I was myself again.

I should have said that the Indians had brought in the meat from the cow
and two bulls I had killed, having discovered them in the direction I
had described. The flesh of the buffaloes having by this time been cut
up and turned into pemmican, no small portion having been eaten by the
Indians, both they and we were ready to recommence our march.

Just as we were about to start, a scout brought word that he had
discovered a Coomanche trail, but being alone he was afraid to follow it
up. The chief rated him soundly for his cowardice, and declared his
intention of setting out himself with one of his braves, to learn what
he could from an inspection of the enemy's position, so as to be able as
far as possible to judge of their intended movements. I volunteered to
accompany him.

"There are few pale-faces from whom I would accept such an offer," he
answered; "but you have shown so much courage and discretion, that I
shall be glad of your company."

I do not mean to say that he used these words, but it was something
equivalent. I thanked him for the compliment, which I modestly remarked
was scarcely deserved. Dick and Armitage strongly advised me not to go;
but, having made the offer, I felt I should lose credit with the
Redskins should I draw back. We were to proceed with three mounted
attendants, who were to take charge of our steeds as we drew near the
enemy's camp, and we were then to go forward on foot.

"We may have to run for ou