He sprang from his horse, unslung his rifle, took calm and sure aim, and just at the moment when the Indian was reaching his covert, the sharp report was heard, the bullet whistled through the air, the Indian gave one convulsive bound and fell dead upon the sod.

The savage had already cocked his rifle.

As he fell the piece was discharged, and the bullet intended for Carson's heart, whizzed harmlessly through the air.

Such scenes were of constant occurrence in this wild mountaineer life.

They produced no lasting impression.