Volume 1

372 IMPRUDENT DISOBEDIENCE OF ORDERS.
seated many minutes before word was brought to our
second in command that a party of Mandanes had disobeyed
orders, made a circuit among the hills, and proceeded
on their journey; we saw them at some distance
ahead, pushing forward. This disobedience appeared to
his countenance changed, and he jumped
vex him much ;
up, declaring vengeance against them if they did not
return instantly. He caught up his spear, threw his robe
upon his horse, and without either saddle or bridle, rode off
after them. His horse, as it were, flew over the stones
and down the hill. He soon overtook and ordered them
back, which they as soon obeyed. He returned in the
same manner, at full speed, up the hill, among rocks and
stones, where every moment we expected to see him come
to grief. But, to my surprise, the horse never once stumbled,
nor appeared to strain himself. The look of this
beast was certainly not in his favor; he was a bright sorrel
gelding with a yellowish mane, seven years old, and 14
hands high, slim and long-bodied, with remarkably stout
bones, which gave him an ugly, awkward appearance.
During the absence of the war chief his father, our old
general, made a long speech, pointing out the imprudence
of those who wished to push on ahead of the party, with
such vehemence and evident displeasure that he could
scarcely get through with his oration.
Here again I observed the great superiority the Big
Bellies wish to maintain over the Mandanes ; their numbers
indeed give them this privilege, and they appear to
make good use of it to keep their neighbors in awe ;
but
this causes continual jealousy, and may one day break out
'in war. Open rupture has, in fact, frequently been imminent,
though by the interference of persons of consideration
it has thus far been prevented, but seldom without
some bloodshed, and perhaps a death or two on each side.
The Mandanes have the reputation of defending themselves
to the last moment when attacked by an enemy ;
let
the number be ever so great against them, they scorn to