or four of the Indians, who were on the point of seizing his rein, staggered them back upon their companions, creating no little confusion.  Taking advantage of this, our hero, with the speed of a flying arrow, bore down upon the weakest point; where, after shooting down a powerful savage, who had succeeded in grasping his bridle and was on the point of tomahawking his horse, he passed their lines, amid a volley of rifle balls, which cut his clothes in several places, but left himself and steed unharmed.

The worst of the danger now seemed over; but still his road ahead was beset with Indians, who were killing and scalping all that fell in their power; and behind him were the infuriated renegade and his party now in hot pursuit.  His steed, however, was strong and fleet, and he put him to his wind; by which means he not only distanced those behind him, but passed one or two parties in front unharmed.  About half way between the ravines and the river, he overtook Major McGary, and some five or six other horsemen, who were dashing forward at a fast gallop; and checking his fiery beast somewhat, he silently joined them.  A little further on, Reynolds observed an officer on foot, who, exhausted by his recent exertions, and lame from former wounds, had fallen behind his companions.  On coming up, he recognized in the crippled soldier the brave Captain Patterson; and with a magnanimity and self-sacrifice worthy of all imitation, he instantly reined in his horse and dismounted, while the others kept upon their course.

“Sir!” cried he to Patterson; “you are, I perceive, fatigued and weak.  Your life is in great danger.  Mount, sir—­mount!  I am fresh and will take my chance on foot.”

“God bless you, sir!—­God bless you for this noble act!” exclaimed Patterson, as Reynolds assisted him, into the saddle.  “If I escape—­”

“Enough!” said Reynolds, hurriedly, interrupting him.  “Fly, sir—­fly!  God be with you!  Adieu!”

And turning away as he spoke, he sprung down the side of the ridge, and running along the edge of the river some little distance, plunged into the water and swam to the opposite shore.  Unfortunately for our hero, he had changed his garments at Bryan’s Station, and now wore a pair of buckskin breeches, which, in swimming the stream, had become so soaked and heavy that he was obliged to remove them in order to display his usual agility.  While seated upon the bank and occupied in this manner, he was startled by a hand being placed upon his shoulder, and the familiar grunt of an Indian sounding in his ear.  On looking up, he at once recognized the grim features of Wild-cat, and saw himself in the power of some half a dozen savages.

“Me wanty you,” said Wild-cat, quietly.  “Kitchokema give much for Long Knife.  Come!”