Like spectres they fled over the open prairie.

That their flight might not be encumbered they had taken nothing with them but their guns and ammunition.
They were determined men.

In whatever numbers and with whatever speed the mounted Indians might ride down upon them, ten of their warriors would inevitably bite the dust ere the fugitives could be taken.

The Indians fully understood this.

And when the morning dawned and they saw that their victims had escaped, instead of pursuing, they satisfied their valor in holding a triumphant powwow over the rich booty they had gained.
It was a chill day and the wind moaned dismally over the bleak prairie.
But as far as the eye could extend no foe could be seen.