orse is ours. He has always belonged to us."

"It's no use, Tom," said Scott. "They are bound to keep Dan, and I don't
see how we can help it. We had better give him up, and get away if we
can. All the same, the fellow is an outrageous liar."

He spoke in a low voice, and the interpreter, though listening
attentively, did not quite catch what was said.

"I guess you are right," said Tom.

Scott turned to the interpreter.

"Well, if you think it is yours, squire, I reckon you will keep it. So
we'll say good morning, and go."

He pulled the rein, but the Indian at his bridle did not let go.

"Good morning, gentlemen," said Scott. "We are going."

"White man must stay," said the Indian interpreter decisively.

"Why?" demanded Scott impatiently.

"He has tried to steal Indian's horse," said the wily savage.

"Well, by gosh; that's turning the tables with a vengeance," ejaculated
Scott. "They're rather ahead of white rogues, Tom. Will you let the boy
go?" he asked.

"White boy stay, too," answered the interpreter, after a brief reference
to the leader of the Indian party.

"Tom," said Scott rapidly, and not appearing to be excited, lest his
excitement should lead to suspicion, "none of them are mounted. Lash
your horse, and tear from the grasp of the man that holds him; then
follow me. It is our only chance."

Tom's heart beat rapidly. He knew that all his nerve was called for; but
he did not falter.

"Give the signal," he said.

"One, two, three!" said Scott rapidly. Simultaneously both lashed their
horses. The startled animals sprang forward. The grips of the Indians,
who were not suspecting any attempts at escape, were already relaxed,
and before they were fully aware of what was intended our two friends
were galloping away.

CHAPTER XXIX.

A RACE FOR LIFE.

The Indians were taken by surprise. They so outnumbered their intended
captives that they had not anticipated an attempt at escape. But they
had no intention of losing their prey. There was a howl of surprise and
disappointment; then they sprang for their horses, and, with little
delay, were on the track of our two friends.

The delay was small, but it was improved by Scott and Tom. Pressing
their animals to their highest speed they gained a lead of several
hundred feet before their savage pursuers had fairly started. It was
well that Tom was a good rider, or he might not have been able to keep
his seat. In fact, he had never ridden s