CHAPTER IV.
AT THE CORRAL.
In the beginning of the morning, when Granite Mountain's fortress-like battlements and towers loomed gray and bold and grim, the big bay horse trumpeted a warning to his less watchful mates.

Instantly, with heads high and eyes wide, the band stood in frightened indecision.

Two horsemen--shadowy and mysterious forms in the misty light--were riding from the corral into the pasture.
As the riders approached, individuals in the band moved uneasily, starting as if to run, hesitating, turning for another look, maneuvering to put their mates between them and the enemy.

But the bay went boldly a short distance toward the danger and stood still with wide nostrils and fierce eyes as though ready for the combat.
For a few moments, as the horsemen seemed about to go past, hope beat high in the hearts of the timid prisoners.

Then the riders circled to put the band between themselves and the corral gate, and the frightened animals knew.