y.

"I saw one between me and the sky. I can tell the shape of a horse as
far as I can see him. I am sure it was one. Look! yonder goes
another!"

"It is," added Lucien; "it is a horse. But see! there is no rider--no
one on his back; and yonder's another, also without a rider. Ha! I
know now--_they are mustangs_!"

"Mustangs!" echoed Francois; "good!--that will be something worth
seeing."

It soon proved that Lucien was right. It was a drove of mustangs, or
wild horses. Basil was also right in saying that they were coming
towards them; for in a few moments they appeared to be within less than
a mile, and approaching at a rapid gallop.

They galloped closely together like a trained troop; and one could be
perceived some lengths in the advance apparently acting as leader. Now
and then one would shy out of the ranks, and rear a moment apart from
the rest, but would return again, and fall in with his companions. It
was a rare sight to see them as they came on; and the ground thundered
under their hoofs as though a squadron of cavalry was charging over it.

When within less than half a mile of the party, they seemed to notice
the latter for the first time. All at once the foremost halted, threw
up his head with a snort, and stood still. The others stopped,
imitating the example of their leader. The latter was still some paces
in the advance; while the breasts of his followers seemed to form a
compact front, like cavalry in line of battle! After standing still for
a few seconds, the leader uttered a shrill neigh, shied to the right,
and dashed off at full speed. The others answered the call; and,
instantly wheeling into the same direction, followed after. The
movement was executed with the precision of a troop!

Our hunters supposed the horses were about to pass them, and part
company without coming closer. They all regretted this, as they were
desirous of having a nearer view of these noble creatures. In order not
to alarm them as they were coming up, all three had taken the precaution
to dismount; and now stood partially screened by their own horses, yet
holding the latter firmly--as these were terrified by the thundering
tramp of the wild steeds.

In a moment the mustangs appeared opposite--that is, with their sides
turned to the hunters; and the latter now saw with joy that they were
not passing away, but _galloping in a circle_--of which they, the
spectators, were the centre!

The circle in