They formed little bands called "Raiders," under the leadership of a chief villain.

One of these bands would select as their victim a man who had good blankets, clothes, a watch, or greenbacks.
Frequently he would be one of the little traders, with a sack of beans, a piece of meat, or something of that kind.

Pouncing upon him at night they would snatch away his possessions, knock down his friends who came to his assistance, and scurry away into the darkness..