They soon recovered from their astonishment, and giving the war-whoop, with many ferocious yells of disappointment, dashed after us at their utmost speed.
Their horses, as I have said, could not run a race with ours, but in a long chase their hardy little animals would have had the advantage, especially as our own steeds had already performed so long a journey.
During the two first hours we kept them out of sight, but towards dark, as our beasts gave in, we saw their forms in the horizon becoming more and more distinct, while, to render our escape less probable, we found ourselves opposed in front by a chain of mountains, not high, but very steep and rugged.
"On, ahead, we are safe!" cried Gabriel.

Of course, there was no time for explanation, and ten minutes more saw us at the foot of the mountain.

"Not a word, but do as I do," again said my companion.

We followed his example by unsaddling our animals and taking off the bridles, with which we whipped them.

The poor things, though tired, galloped to the south, as if they were aware of the impending danger.
"I understand, Gabriel," said I; "the savages cannot see us in the shades of these hills; they will follow our horses by the sounds." Gabriel chuckled with delight.