On, on they rushed, till in the distance one might fancy them a
quantity of beetles, or other insects, dotting the surface before
them. Soon not a vestige remained of the flying herd, and happy it was
for them they made good their retreat, and gained a place of refuge
ere the "norther" burst in all its keenness on the unprotected plain.
Wildly the piercing blasts whistled through the trees, and rushed
furiously on, unimpeded by the forests, which in more eastern lands
present a formidable barrier to the progress. The rain began to fall
heavily, when a small cavalcade sought the protection of a clump of
oaks, by placing the leafy boughs between themselves and the beating,
driving torrents. The party consisted of several ladies and gentlemen,
two children, and as many servants; the latter in a wagon, the
remainder on horseback. With all possible speed the gentlemen
dismounted, and, tightly buttoning their great-coats about them,
proceeded to stretch two tents, by means of poles and pins, carried in
the wagon.

Night closed in, and finding a sheltered spot beneath the trees,
a large fire was kindled, which threw its ruddy light into the
surrounding tents, and illumined the entire grove. The horses were
picketed out, almost within reach from the tents, and the wagon
containing their stores drawn so near as, in some degree, to shelter
them. The servants prepared the evening meal--simple, it is true, yet
enjoyed far more than a sumptuous repast of Indian delicacies, and
untold ragouts, eaten without the sauce of hunger produced by their
long ride. More than a week had elapsed since leaving San Antonio,
and Mary had borne better than they dared to hope the fatigue of the
journey.

To-night, however, she lay exhausted on her pallet, the thin cheek