ese false ponds I have never seen satisfactorily
explained. They have usually been attributed to a refraction, by which a
section of the bordering sky is thrown below the horizon; but I am
convinced that they are the effect of reflection. It seems that a gas
(emanating probably from the heated earth and its vegetable matter)
floats upon the elevated flats, and is of sufficient density, when
viewed obliquely, to reflect the objects beyond it; thus the opposing
sky being reflected in the pond of gas, gives the appearance of water.

As a proof that it is the effect of reflection, I have often observed
the distant knolls and trees which were situated near the horizon beyond
the mirage, distinctly inverted in the "pond." Now, were the mirage the
result of refraction, these would appear on it erect, only cast below
the surface. Many are the singular atmospheric phenomena observable upon
the plains, and they would afford a field of interesting researches for
the curious natural philosopher.

We had a pleasant journey, although sometimes pressed pretty hard by
hunger. However, Gabriel, Roche, and I were too happy to complain. We
had just escaped from a bitter and long slavery, besides which, we were
heartily tired of the lean and tough dogs of the Arrapahoes, which are
the only food of that tribe during the winter. The Apaches, who had
heard of our exploits, showed us great respect; but what still more
captivated their good graces, was the Irishman's skill in playing the
fiddle. It so happened that a Mexican officer having, during the last
fall, been recalled from Monterey to Santa Fe, had left his violin. It
was a very fine instrument, an old Italian piece of workmanship, and
worth, I am convinced, a great deal of money.

At the request of the owner, one of the present officers had taken
charge of the violin and packed it up, together with his trunks, in one
of the Cibolero's waggons. We soon became aware of the circumstance, and
when we could not get anything to eat, music became our consolation.
Tired as we were, we would all of us, "at least the Pale-faces," dance
merrily for hours together, after we had halted, till poor Roche,
exhausted, could no longer move his fingers.

We were at last relieved of our obligatory fast, and enabled to look
with contempt upon the humble prickly pears, which for many a long day
had been our only food. Daily now we came across herds of fat buffaloes,
and great was our sport in pursuing th