Half falling onward, the Mexican slipped upon a tuft of the hard gray grass and went down headlong.

A murmur arose from the Indians, who thought at first that their leader's blow had proved fatal.

A sharp call from Curly seemed to bring the Mexican to his feet at once.

The Indian lost the half moment which was his own.

Again the two engaged, White Calf now seeking to disconcert the Mexican, whom he discovered to be less agile than himself.