on great distinction,
devastating Indians materially, and they wished the war to go on as
planned. They explained vociferously that it was proper for the
soldiers always to thrash the Indians. The little boys did not pretend
to deny the truth of this argument; they confined themselves to the
simple statement that, in that case, they wished to be soldiers. Each
little boy willingly appealed to the others to remain Indians, but as
for himself he reiterated his desire to enlist as a soldier. The
larger boys were in despair over this dearth of enthusiasm in the
small Indians. They alternately wheedled and bullied, but they could
not persuade the little boys, who were really suffering dreadful
humiliation rather than submit to another onslaught of soldiers. They
were called all the baby names that had the power of stinging deep
into their pride, but they remained firm.

Then a formidable lad, a leader of reputation, one who could whip many
boys that wore long trousers, suddenly blew out his checks and
shouted, "Well, all right then. I'll be an Indian myself. Now." The
little boys greeted with cheers this addition to their wearied ranks,
and seemed then content. But matters were not mended in the least,
because all of the personal following of the formidable lad, with the
addition of every outsider, spontaneously forsook the flag and
declared themselves Indians. There were now no soldiers. The Indians
had carried everything unanimously. The formidable lad used his
influence, but his influence could not shake the loyalty of his
friends, who refused to fight under any colors but his colors.

Plainly there was nothing for it but to coerce the little ones. The
formidable lad again became a soldier, and then graciously permitted
to join him all the real fighting strength of the crowd, leaving
behind a most forlorn band of little Indians. Then the soldiers
attacked the Indians, exhorting them to opposition at the same time.

The Indians at first adopted a policy of hurried surrender, but this
had no success, as none of the surrenders were accepted. They then
turned to flee, bawling out protests. The ferocious soldiers pursued
them amid shouts. The battle widened, developing all manner of
marvellous detail.

Horace had turned towards home several times, but, as a matter of
fact, this scene held him in a spell. It was fascinating beyond
anything which the grown man understands. He had always in the back of
his head a sense of gu