had seized the rope.

The Indian struggled, and tried to take it away from her; the red blade
gleamed in his eyes, and he gave back.

He still clung to the rope; but in an instant it was cut from his hands,
and, quick as thought, the heroic woman leaped upon the back of the
steed, and was seen galling away!

The Indian was one of the horse-guards, and was therefore armed; he
carried bow and quiver. Before the horse had galloped beyond reach, he
had bent his bow, and sent an arrow from the string.

I heard the "wheep" of the shaft, and fancied I heard it strike; but the
steed kept on!

I had plucked up one of the long spears, as I ran across the camp.
Before the Indian could adjust another arrow to the string, I had thrust
him in the back.

I drew out the spear, and, keeping the white horse in view, ran on.

I was soon in the midst of the mustangs; many of them had already
stampeded, and were galloping to and fro over the ground. The guards
were dismayed, but as yet knew not the cause of the alarm. The steed
with his rider passed safely through their line.

I followed on foot, and as fast as I could run. Fifty savages were
after me; I could hear their shouts.

I could hear them cry "Wakono," but I was soon far in advance of all.
The horse-guards, as I passed them, were shouting "Wakono!"

As soon as I had cleared the horse-drove, I again perceived the steed;
but he was now some distance off. To my joy he was going in the right
direction--straight for the yuccas upon the hill. My men would see and
intercept him?

I ran along the stream with all speed. I reached the broken bank, and,
without stopping, rushed into the gully for my horse.

What was my astonishment to find that he was gone! my noble steed gone,
and in his place the spotted mustang of the Indian!

I looked up and down the channel; I looked along its banks--Moro was not
in sight!

I was puzzled, perplexed, furious. I knew no explanation of the
mystery--I could think of none. Who could have done it? Who? My
followers must have done it. Rube must have done it? but why? In my
hot haste, I could find no reason for this singular behaviour.

I had no time to reflect--not a moment.

I drew the animal from the water, and leaping upon his back, rode out of
the channel.

As I regained the level of the plain, I saw mounted men, a crowd of them
coming from the camp. They were the savages in pursuit; one was far
ahead of the rest, and bef