aking for the forest beyond. A noble
buck was the leader, with head erect, making ten feet at every jump.
Away they went, casting the earth from their slender hoofs, caring for
neither brush or brake, for a relentless pursuer was on their track.

"See! there goes three small specks close to the ground; there they
are, three monstrous black wolves with glistening coats, their fiery
eyes sparkling, and jaws distended."

They were larger than the largest dog; long, gaunt limbs, small, and
all muscle, and so persevering that every thing tired before them. They
seldom, when they start in a chase, give up their prey.

"Without doubt, the weakest of that noble herd will make a supper for
their rapacious foes," said Howe.

Such is the black wolf of the western wilds, attacking every thing he
meets when hunger is on him; even the buffalo falls a prey to him.

Chapter Seventh.

Their continued Captivity. Attempt to Escape. They are cautiously
watched and guarded. Fears and apprehensions. They discover Gold in
various quantities. A singular Cave. Preparations to escape into it.
Lassoing the Chief. Enter the Cavern and close the Door. They are
missed by the Indians. Tumult in the Camp. They follow the Cavern.
Singular adventure. Jane rescued from Drowning. Strange appearance of
the Cave. Mysterious discoveries. They Continue on. Cross a stream.
Discovery of an Outlet. They halt for repose.

Six weeks elapsed and they were still prisoners, treated with great
kindness; although they were forced to be present at the revolting
feast on human flesh, as often as a war party returned, which was
almost every week. And, though they saw the Indian captives sacrificed
with relentless cruelty, yet the fear that they should be made victims
had partially subsided, as week after week went round, and, except the
single sentinel who was relieved from duty morn and night, they were
left entirely to themselves to do as they pleased. They had often
attempted to draw him into the forest with them, but when he had
accompanied them to a certain boundary, he gave them to understand they
must return immediately to the village; and, as they knew the penalty
of attempting an escape they did not dare to undertake it, knowing they
would be pursued with fleet horses, and perhaps be taken and sacrificed
the same day. They were wearied with their captivity, and became gloomy
and sad. The Pah-Utah saw this, and directed the sentinel to give them
a