He made a mighty
effort and leaped the next instant into the protection of the trees and
thickets. Fortune favored him now. A wood alone would not have protected
him, but here were vines and bushes also.
He turned off at a sharp angle and ran as swiftly and with as little
noise as he could. He heard the horses floundering in the forest, and
the curses of their riders. He ran a hundred yards further and, coming
to a little gully, lay down in it and reloaded his rifle. Then he stayed
there until he could regain his breath and strength. While he lay he
heard the Mexicans beating up the thickets, and Urrea giving sharp
orders.
Ned knew that his hiding place must soon be discovered, and he began to
consider what would be the best movement to make next. His heart had now
returned to its normal beat, and he felt that he was good for another
fine burst of speed.
He heard the trampling of the horses approaching, and then the voice of
Urrea telling the others that he was going straight ahead and to follow
him. Evidently they had beaten up the rest of the forest, and now they
were bound to come upon him. Ned sprang from the gully, ran from the
wood and darted across the prairie toward the next little grove.
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