him to speak. At length three of the Indians stepped
before the rest; and in an instant one shot his arrow, which went
quivering into the breast of the victim. Still the man did not utter a
cry. After waiting a minute, another shot an arrow, which also pierced
the body of the unhappy wretch. After a third shot, I saw that he was
still alive. The first Indians now retired to the main body, when I
heard a groan escape from the scout's tortured frame, on which the
squaws set up a loud jeering laugh.

The doctor, who had with difficulty been able to keep back Jumbo, now
began carefully to retreat, beckoning to Tim and me to do likewise. It
was the best opportunity, while the savages were engaged in their
butchery. Still, I much regretted that we had not boldly rushed forward
and endeavoured to save the man's life. We might, by surprising the
Indians, have succeeded, as they would probably have fancied that we
were followed by a larger party, and have taken to flight.

We continued our course without speaking, carefully endeavouring to make
no noise, and as rapidly and cautiously as possible. The doctor led the
way, taking huge strides over the ground; I followed, and Tim brought up
the rear. Not for an instant did he stop to say a word, even after we
had got to a considerable distance, and our voices could not possibly
have been heard by the foe. I had great difficulty in keeping up with
him at the rate he went; but not till we got within sight of the fort
did he slacken his pace and allow me to come up with him.

I then told him that I wished we had tried to save the scout.

"We should probably have had our scalps hanging at the end of their
spears long ere this, had we made the attempt," he answered; "you've run
a narrow chance a second time this day of losing your life, young
gentleman, and you should be thankful. It is as well, however, that we
caught sight of the Indians; depend on it, they are in force at no great
distance, and we may expect an attack from them before many days are
over--perhaps before many hours are past--and we must lose no time in
warning the commandant."

On entering the fort, the commandant, who happened to be near the gate,
and saw our game-bags full, greeted us warmly, and invited the doctor to
dinner.

"Very happy to do myself that honour," he answered. "And perhaps, senor
commandante, you will allow me to present you with these birds, some of
which it may be as well to cook