There were wild yells and pistol shots, and then, out upon the prairie, the two astonished travelers saw a motley crew of horses and savages emerge.
The savages were fighting furiously. Frank knew enough of the Indians of that region to know what it all meant.
A band of Sioux and a band of Pawnees, the deadliest of enemies, were engaged in a terrific battle.
Frank took in the scene at a glance.
He at once understood all.
The band which had captured Pomp was undoubtedly the one engaged in this conflict. They had very likely met the Pawnees in the upper part of the pass.
When the Pawnees and Sioux met a fight always followed. Generally the latter came off victorious.
As it seemed now, however, the Pawnees had the best of it.
They were worsting the Sioux in good fashion. Frank and Barney watched the scene a moment until suddenly a sharp cry burst from Barney.
“Begorra, Misther Frank, if there ain’t the naygur.” he cried, wildly.