CHAPTER XIV.
POND SEIZED WITH TERROR.
Nothing of note occurred in the little camp at the Lone-tree Spring that first night.

Just before sunset the young Texan and Willie Pond took a gallop of four or five miles to exercise their horses and use themselves to the saddle, and when they came back with freshened appetites, ate heartily, and afterward slept soundly.
The next morning both woke with the sun, and after a hearty meal the pack-horse was loaded, the other animals saddled, and the route taken for the Hills.
A ride of six or seven miles brought them into the trail of the larger party, and at noon, or a little before, the Texan halted on the camping-ground occupied by that party the night before.
The embers of their fires were yet alive, and over them the Texan cooked dinner for himself and companion.
Pointing to the bones and scraps of meat thrown around, the Texan laughed, and said: "They've plenty now, but before they get through they'll be more careful, for if the Indians are thick, game will be hard to get; and I'm thinking they'll find Indians before they're three days out." "You said the Sioux would be friendly to you ?" "Yes; I have a talisman.

Did you not see me put this eagle feather, tipped with crimson, in my hat last night before I rode out ?" "Yes.

Is that your talisman ?" "It is.

It is from the coronet of a Sioux chief, and was given to me as a safeguard." "I wish I had one." "Keep with me and you will not need it." "Do not fear that I will go far from you.