the mane, on the withers, thus forming a loop which

hangs under the neck and against the breast. This

being caught by the hand, makes a sling, into which the

elbow falls, taking the weight of the body on the middle

of the upper arm. Into this loop the rider drops suddenly

and fearlessly, leaving his heel to hang over the

horse's back to steady him, and also to restore him to his

seat when desired.

By this stratagem the Indians had approached on the

present occasion almost within rifle range before they