safe from our shots,
sheltered by the projecting prisms, and screened by the trees. We
should not dare to expose ourselves over the edge of the platform: since
the others, remaining behind the boulders below, would cover us with
their aim; and the shower of arrows would insure our destruction. Those
who might scale the mound, would have us at their mercy. Assailing us
simultaneously from all sides, and springing suddenly upon the platform,
ten to one against us, they could soon overpower us.

These were the observations we had made, and the reflections that
resulted from them. We only wondered that our enemies had not yet
perceived the advantage of this plan of attack; and, since they had
neglected it so long, we were in hopes that the idea would not occur to
them at all. It was not long before we perceived our error; and that we
had miscalculated the cunning of our dusky foes. We saw the Indians
once more taking to their horses. Some order had reached them from the
Red-Hand, who stood conspicuous in the midst of the largest group of his
warriors. The movement that resulted from this order was similar to
that already practised in the endeavour to stampede our animals: only
that all the band took part in it--even the chiefs mounting and riding
among the rest. The marksmen _alone_ remained afoot, and continued to
fire from behind their horses.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Once more the mounted warriors commence galloping in circles round the
butte. We perceive that at each wheel they are coming nearer, and can
divine their intent. It is the very plan of attack we have been
apprehending! We can tell by their gestures that they are about to
charge forward to the rocks.

Regardless of the fire from the plain, we creep back to the edge of the
parapet, and point our pieces towards the circling horsemen. We are
excited with, new apprehensions; but the caution to keep cool is once
more passed around; and each resolves not to fire without being certain
of his aim. On our first shots will depend the success or failure of
the attack. As before, we arrange that two only shall fire at a time.
If the shots prove true, and two of our foes fall to them, it may check
the charge, perhaps repulse it altogether? Such often happens with an
onset of Indians--on whom the dread of the fire-weapon acts with a
mysterious effect. On the other hand, if we miss, our fate is sealed
a