valley and
making believe to keep a lookout for Indians.

The evening closed in, however, without any sign of the enemy, and soon
after the lad had to listen to the congratulations of Bourne and Griggs,
who brought in a pleasant addition to the stores in the shape of the
grouse-like birds which came down from the tableland in coveys to get at
the water which had been Chris's guide to the bottom of the valley.

"A fine bit of luck that, squire," said Griggs, "getting the mustang
back. I was surprised."

"Have you been to see him?" asked Chris anxiously.

"Oh yes; I went as soon as I heard."

"What do you think of him?"

"Regular cripple," said Griggs, in his uncompromising way.

"But you think he'll get better?"

"Well, I hope so, but horses are ticklish things, and you never know
what comes of a sprain or strain. I hope he'll come round, but I have
my doubts about his being quite sound again."

As soon as it was dark the ponies and mules were quietly driven higher
up the valley, so as to try and guard against any attempt to carry them
off in the night. Then watch was set, and before those not on duty
sought their resting-places a little debate was held as to the next
steps to be taken. But not much was said. Reference was however made
to Chris's mount and the possibility of his being fit to ride again at
the end of a few days.

"But, you see, everything depends on the Indians," said the doctor. "We
can't leave here to have them hanging on our heels, ready to catch us at
a disadvantage. I almost wish they'd attack us to-morrow or next day,
to get severely punished and so discouraged that they'd be off and leave
us alone."

"Don't you think they'd come back to revenge themselves?" said Chris.
"They must feel very spiteful even now, father."

"Yes, but an Indian is very fond of his life, my boy, and only likes to
attack when he feels pretty sure of securing plunder. Now he is not
likely to get much here, for any attempt made upon our cattle is bound
to result in failure."

"But suppose they attacked in the night?" said Chris.

"I don't think these people would do that, my boy. They are horse
Indians--Apaches, I fancy, and they like to fight as mounted men, so
that they can dash in or gallop away. But come, you've talked too much
already. Lie down and go to sleep. We're pretty safe here in our
stronghold; water is plentiful; and it seems as if we have only to go
and lie up near that spring to g