An Apache Princess

"Apaches!" This in high disdain. "Trash, man! Because one sentry has a

scuffle with some night prowler is the next to lose his nerve? You're

scared by shadows, Hunt. That's what's the matter with you!"

It "brought to" a veteran trooper with a round turn. Hunt had served

his fourth enlistment, had "worn out four blankets" in the regiment,

and was not to be accused of scare.

"Let the major see for himself, then," he answered sturdily. "Come in

here, you!" he called aloud. "Come, the whole gang of ye. The

concert's beginning!" Then, slowly along the eastward edge there began

to creep into view black polls bound with dirty white, black crops

untrammeled by any binding. Then, swift from the west, came running

footfalls, the corporal with a willing comrade or two, wondering was

Five in further danger. There, silent and regretful, stood the post

commander, counting in surprise the score of scarecrow forms now

plainly visible, sitting, standing, or squatting along the mesa

edge. Northernmost in view, nearly opposite Blakely's quarters, were

two, detached from the general assembly, yet clinging close

together--two slender figures, gowned, and it was at these the agent

Daly was staring, as he, too, came running to the spot.

"Major Plume," cried he, panting, "I want those girls arrested, at

once!"