This proved to be the case, though the disappointment was of an agreeable nature, for the ponies struck a shallower part than that which was first forded. At no portion did the water do more than barely touch the bodies of the animals, and then only for a few steps. Once the mare slipped on a smooth stone, and came within a hair of unseating her rider, but the latter's skill enabled her to retain her seat, and a few minutes later the two came out on the other side, without a drop of moisture on their garments. "Thank Heaven!" was the fervent ejaculation of the husband as the fact was accomplished. "It is better than I expected." "But don't forget that they may have done the same thing, and perhaps are awaiting us near at hand." "You may be right, Molly, and we cannot be too careful." The words were barely uttered when the splashing of water behind them left no doubt that the Sioux were again on their trail. "Quick!" whispered the husband; "dismount; you can't ride the mare among the trees; she will follow, and don't fail to keep close behind Dick." It was important, above all things, to leave the spot before the red men landed. Otherwise, they would hear the horses and locate them without difficulty. A disappointment awaited our friends. It will be remembered that the fringe of timber on the other side was quite narrow, and they naturally supposed it corresponded on the farther shore. But after threading their way for double the distance, they were surprised to find no evidence of the open plain beyond. The rancher dared not continue farther while there was reason to fear their pursuers were near. The brushing of the branches against the bodies of the animals and the noise of their hoofs could be detected in the silence, and was sure to betray the fugitives to any Sioux within a hundred yards. The wife understood why the halt was made. Her husband stole back and placed himself by her side. "You must be wearied with carrying Dot so long," he said sympathizingly. "It is quite a trial," she replied, in the same guarded voice, "but there is no help for it, and I beg you to give the matter no thought." "Let me take her a while." "No, that will not do; you must hold your gun ready for instant use, and you could not do so with her in your arms. It is not so hard when we are sitting on the mare, for it is easy to arrange it so that she supports most of her weight." "You are a good, brave woman, Molly, and deserve to be saved." "Sh!" she admonished; "I hear something."