I was soon in the midst of the mustangs; many of them had already
stampeded, and were galloping to and fro over the ground. The guards
were dismayed, but as yet knew not the cause of the alarm. The steed
with his rider passed safely through their line.
I followed on foot, and as fast as I could run. Fifty savages were
after me; I could hear their shouts.
I could hear them cry "Wakono," but I was soon far in advance of all.
The horse-guards, as I passed them, were shouting "Wakono!"
As soon as I had cleared the horse-drove, I again perceived the steed;
but he was now some distance off. To my joy he was going in the right
direction--straight for the yuccas upon the hill. My men would see and
intercept him?
I ran along the stream with all speed. I reached the broken bank, and,
without stopping, rushed into the gully for my horse.
What was my astonishment to find that he was gone! my noble steed gone,
and in his place the spotted mustang of the Indian!
I looked up and down the channel; I looked along its banks--Moro was not
in sight!
I was puzzled, perplexed, furious. I knew no explanation of the
mystery--I could think of none. Who could have done it? Who? My
followers must have done it. Rube must have done it? but why? In my
hot haste, I could find no reason for this singular behaviour.