n the band of Sioux led by
Persimmon Bill. Used to all kinds of exigencies, the red men did not
mind either a lack of food or of water for so short a time. They were
only angered with the thought that those whom they had deemed an easy
prey had escaped them.

As soon as it was light, Persimmon Bill had the captured pack-horses
examined, and it was found that several of them were laden with
provisions. Others had ammunition and stores, and on some of them were
found kegs of liquor.

These the wary leader at once destroyed, telling his followers that
there was no foe so deadly to the red man as this fire-water and not one
drop should pass his lips or theirs. The provisions were at once
distributed among them, as also the stores, but the liquor was given to
the thirsty sands, where at least it could do no harm.

Then a council was held by the leader with the chiefs and head warriors
of the band, and it was decided that it would be foolish to pursue the
Black Hill people farther, now that troops were with them, unless a
large band of Sioux could be found. For it is not Indian policy to risk
battle against odds, or where there is danger of great loss and little
gain. To reach water and good hunting-grounds was their first necessity;
after that they could consider where next to go. Sitting Bull was
rallying all the tribes for war, and the "White Elk" had promised to
join him.

Gloomily the young Texan heard all this talk, and at its close, when a
decision had been arrived at, he said:

"Here we must part. I follow the trail of Wild Bill, if I follow it
alone. I had hoped to see him die a slow and cruel death, where I could
have heard him plead, and plead in vain for mercy. But that hope is
gone, if he reaches the Hills in safety. But he cannot live--he shall
not! I have sworn to kill him, and I will! The spirit of him who fell at
Abilene cries up from a bloody grave for vengeance, and the cry shall be
answered. You have been kind to me Addie Neidic, and so has he to whom
your heart is given. I shall never forget it. But our courses now lie
apart--I follow yonder trail, while you go I know not where. We may not
meet again--if we do, I shall tell you Wild Bill is dead!"

"Stay with us. I will yet help you to your vengeance," said Persimmon
Bill.

"No; it will be too long delayed. I am hot on the death-trail now, and I
will not leave it. Fear not for me. I shall hover near them till they
reach the Hills, and then I will