XVII

After the mass was over the boys learned the sequel of the morning's
terrible adventure. Between the second valley and the wood the cattle,
diverted by one of those mysterious impulses which govern masses of all
grades of intelligence, had deflected suddenly and raced for the hills.
The gay company was much shaken, but somewhat restored by the calm of
the church and the solemn monotonous roll of Father Osuna's voice. They
cantered slowly homeward, and crossed themselves fervently when they saw
the Casa Encarnacion none the worse for her shaking, beyond a few fallen
tiles. After dinner and siesta they recovered their natural spirits, and
the men and boys went forth with the vaqueros to hunt the cattle. These
were found at the foot of the mountain, weary and humble. Not a horn was
tossed in defiance at the volley of abuse hurled upon them, and they
allowed themselves to be driven to the ranches of their respective
owners without a protest.

That evening the household and guests of Casa Encarnacion spent in music
and dancing; so light of heart and careless of mind were the people of
that time and country.

A number of cattle had been trampled to death in the stampede, and the
bodies lay within a few miles of the mountains. It was inevitable that
bears would come out to eat the carcasses. On the night of the day of
terrifying memory no one felt equal to the exertion of another ten mile
ride and the subsequent battle with a possible herd of bears. But at
eight o'clock on the following night Don Tiburcio, Padre Osuna, the
boys, some ten of the caballeros, and as many vaqueros mounted and rode
forth for a good night's sport. The moon was thin and low. As they