“They’ll outflank us,” exclaimed John Mason anxiously. “If they ever get around to our rear we won’t stand any chance at all.”
Already three of the scouts had fallen. Two of them were dead and the other, a man named William Reach, was mortally wounded. What the casualties on the Indian side were it was impossible to tell. At any rate the advance had not been checked. Using every bit of cover, the redmen pressed forward relentlessly. Every moment the position of the scouts became more untenable.
“We’ll have to fall back,” exclaimed Walt at length. “Go slow, though,” he called, “and keep your guns busy all the time.”
Fighting every inch of the distance, the scouts retreated. From tree to tree they went, doggedly and stubbornly contesting the ground with their opponents. The Indians were not to be denied, however, and it was soon apparent that the white men must run for their lives. They were outnumbered by their foes and unless they made their escape soon it was evident that they would be caught in a trap.
Walt turned to Robert. “You and Deerfoot go and put your brother on his horse,” he ordered. “Then you both get on your ponies and run for it. We will follow right behind you.”
“Don’t you need us here?” exclaimed Robert, loath to leave his place on the front.
“Yes, we need you,” admitted Walt. “Joseph needs you more, though. Go to him as fast as you can. You’d better go quickly, too. Things may be pretty hot for us here in a few moments.”
Robert delayed no longer. Summoning Deerfoot he hurried back to the place where they had left Joseph seated under the tree. On the way he saw two of his comrades bending over William Reach, the man who had been wounded. From their attitude he could see plainly that another member of the band had breathed his last.
“What’s the matter, Bob?” exclaimed Joseph as he spied his brother and Deerfoot hastening in his direction.
“Everything’s the matter,” cried Robert. “The Indians are attacking us for all they are worth and we’ll be surrounded unless we get out of here pretty quick.”
“Get the ponies and I’m ready,” said Joseph eagerly.
Deerfoot and Robert hastened to obey and in a very short time returned. Each one rode his own pony and Robert led The Swallow, holding the reins with his left hand. He quickly dismounted and Deerfoot did the same.