ining them, I had soon attended to the wants of my charger, bridled
him, and snapping the buffalo robe upon his back, I mounted him and rode
back to the lodge of Hissodecha. At the same time he emerged from the
lodge in all the full glory of his war paint. His horse had already been
brought up by one of his band, and advising me to eat as hearty a meal
as possible, he mounted and rode down to where the warriors were
assembling. Hastily devouring a few mouthfuls of tasajo, I speedily
followed him, and although but a few moments had elapsed, found the
party almost ready to start.

The entire population of the village had by this time assembled to see
us off, and I found myself the subject of some very flattering remarks
as I rode through the throngs of women, children, and dogs, while
immediately surrounding the war-party were grouped all the male members
of the community who were not of the expedition. The renegade had
directed me to attach myself to his band, and I accordingly did so,
being received with great cordiality by the younger braves, who
complimented me on my warlike aspect and fine equipments. Stonhawon, who
had been holding a hurried consultation with Tonsaroyoo, who stood aloof
as though not wishing to compromise his dignity by evincing any interest
in an expedition which he did not lead, now rode up and gave the signal
for departure. Instantly the band, numbering about five hundred
warriors, wheeled, and forming with the rapidity of thought in single
file, the only formation used on the march by the prairie Indians, rode
off at a rapid pace down the valley, amid the shouts and yells of those
we left behind. By this time the sun had fully risen, and on looking
back I could see upon the summit of the temple the usual group of
priests and their assistants, and among them I could plainly distinguish
the tall figure of Wakometkla. I fancied that I could see him wave his
hand as if in adieu, but it may have been only fancy, for the distance
was too great to decide with certainty.

As we rode rapidly along, I noted every object rendered familiar by my
long residence in the valley with a peculiar interest, for I hoped that
I was looking upon the well-known scene for the last time.

It was a glorious morning, and the exhilaration of the rapid motion, as
my horse bore me along with proud, springy step, seemed to increase my
strength, and I experienced a buoyancy of spirits and a vigor of body I
had never known bef