If either party fires, the others will of course hurry to their assistance.

Now, let us move forward." With Jim in advance, Reuben's party moved on, the black carefully examining the ground and bushes as he went; and occasionally, somewhat to Reuben's surprise, rising from the stooping position in which he was walking, and looking back over his shoulder.

The motive was explained when Jim exclaimed: "Dere, captain, dere are de signals again." Reuben turned in the saddle.

On the crest of the hill behind him were three columns of smoke.

Scarcely had he looked at them when the smoke ceased to ascend, as if the fires had been suddenly put out.
"That's to tell them that we have divided in three parties ?" Reuben asked the black.
Jim nodded, and proceeded on his way again.
"That's awkward," Reuben said, "I must warn the other two parties." So saying, he at once ordered two of the constables to ride right and left and warn the others, who were not as yet more than a quarter of a mile on either hand, that the natives were aware that they had broken up, and that the greatest caution must, therefore, be observed.