CHAPTER XII.
Adventures on the Prairie.
Disappearance of the Bee Hunter .-- The Herd of Buffalo Crockett lost .-- The Fight with the Cougar .-- Approach of Savages .-- Their Friendliness .-- Picnic on the Prairie .-- Picturesque Scene .-- The Lost Mustang recovered .-- Unexpected Reunion .-- Departure of the Savages .-- Skirmish with the Mexicans .-- Arrival at the Alamo.
Soon after the bee-hunter had disappeared, all were startled by a strange sound, as of distant thunder.

It was one of the most beautiful of summer days.

There was not a cloud to be seen.

The undulating prairie, waving with flowers, lay spread out before them, more beautiful under nature's bountiful adornings than the most artistic parterre, park or lawn which the hand of man ever reared.

A gentle, cool breeze swept through the grove, fragrant and refreshing as if from Araby the blest.