own on its quarry, and then settled over his
head and shoulders.

My horse knew more about the use of this peculiar instrument than I did,
for no sooner had the lasso passed over the head of the donkey than he
planted his fore feet firmly on the ground, and braced his body to
receive the shock. Before I was aware of anything, I felt a sharp jerk
at my wrist, and the next moment I was sailing over my pony's head, and
going in the direction of the donkey at a more rapid rate than was
agreeable. I soon struck _terra firma_, but with such force that the
concussion caused me to see more stars than I thought the heavens were
capable of containing. To add to my embarrassment, the rope had become
fastened to my wrist, and in such a manner that I could not free myself.
The donkey, recovering from the effect of the shock, started off at
headlong speed, dragging my unresisting body after him. How long this
novel journey would have continued I have no means of knowing had I not
fortunately been rescued by a passing Indian. After an examination, I
found that with the exception of torn clothing and a few scratches, I
had come out of this adventure safely; but I never more had any desire
to run amuck with donkeys.

The Indian then explained the manner in which the lasso was thrown, and
under his tuition I became somewhat of an adept in this novel art.

The following morning the signal from the look-out announced that the
herd were in sight. Then there was hurrying to and fro, and mounting in
hot haste. Indians were seen rushing frantically in every direction,
whilst the greatest hilarity prevailed among the squaws. Horses were
driven into the corrals and quickly bridled, whilst those who were to
participate in the hunt were busy divesting themselves of all
superfluous clothing. Some armed themselves with a bow and a few arrows,
while some depended on their lances only. The party had by this time
assembled in front of the lodge where Tonsaroyoo was standing giving the
final instructions to the band. These were very brief, and as soon as he
had finished speaking, everything being in readiness, we mounted our
horses, and were off like a whirlwind.

Passing up the valley, we climbed the cliff and defiling around the
narrow ledge of rock that guards this entrance to the village soon
deployed upon the prairie. As we swept along over the plain on this
glorious morning, my spirits rose, the blood coursed through my veins in
rapid pulsatio