As it was upon the open prairie the contest at once resolved itself into an open chase.
It was no time to spare the animals, whose rapid gait was increased until it became a killing pace.

The pursuers were steadily gaining, when four of their horses succumbed and their riders, much to their chagrin, were shut out from the impending fray.

The others had no time to stop: they could simply shout goodbye to them and spur their steeds to greater exertions.

Fortunately the pursuers were better mounted than the fugitives who numbered a full score.

With a bravery characteristic of their tribe, they clung to their stolen property, preferring to be overtaken and forced into a fight rather than abandon it.
As soon as the parties were within rifle range, the battle began and became of the most exciting character.