w."

It certainly seemed immense to Dick and Albert. The great
animals came on in an endless stream from the blue wall of the
horizon. The vast procession steadily broadened and lengthened
and it moved with unceasing step toward the south. The body of
it was solid black, with figures which at the distance blended
into one mass, but on the flanks hung stragglers, lawless old
bulls or weaklings, and outside there was a fringe of hungry
wolves, snapping and snarling, and waiting a chance to drag down
some failing straggler.

Far over the plain spread the herd, thousands and tens of
thousands, and the earth shook with their tread. Confused,
bellowings and snortings arose, and the dust hung thick.

Dick and Albert stared with intent eyes at the wonderful scene.
The herd was drawing nearer and nearer. It would pass only a few
hundred yards from the crest on which the train stood. Already
the hunters were shouting to one another and galloping away, but
Dick did not stir from Albert's side. Albert's eyes were
expanded, and the new color in his face deepened. His breath cam
in the short, quick fashion of one who is excited. He suddenly
turned to his brother.

"The men are off! Why aren't you with them Dick?" he exclaimed.

"I thought I wouldn't go," replied Dick evasively. "There'll be
enough without me."

Albert stared. Not hunt buffalo when one could. It was
unbelievable. Then he comprehended. But he would not have it
that way! It was noble of Dick, but it should not be so for a
moment. He cried out, a note of anxiety in this voice:

"No, Dick, you shall not say here with me! My time will come
later on! Jump on your horse, Dick, and join 'em! I won't
forgive you if you don't!"

Dick saw that Albert was in earnest, and he knew that it would be
better for them both now if he should go.

"All right, Al!" he cried, "I'll pick out a good fat one." He
jumped on his horse and in a moment was galloping at full speed
over the plain toward the great herd which now rushed on, black
and thundering.

Dick heard shots already from those who had preceded him, and the
exultant shouts of the men mingled with the roar of mighty
tramplings. But it was not all triumph for the men, few of whom
were experienced. Two or three had been thrown by shying horses,
and with difficulty escaped being trodden to death under the feet
of the herd. The herd itself was so immense that it did not
notice these few wasps on a