So we trailed the Shawnees, us two, and come up with them one night encamped beside a salt-lick.

Jim got into their camp while I was lying shivering in the cane, and blessed if he didn't snake back four of our hosses and our three best Deckards.

Tha's craft for ye.

By sunrise we was riding south on the Warriors' Path but the hosses was plumb tired, and afore midday them pizonous Shawnees had cotched up with us.

I can tell ye, neighbours, the hair riz on my head, for I expected nothing better than a bloody sculp and six feet of earth....