A few Usbeck horses raised their heads, and began to wander towards
the edge of the wood. Michael held his revolver in his hand,
ready to blow out the brains of the first Tartar who should approach him.
But happily the alarm was not given, and he was able to gain the angle
made by the wood where it joined the road.
To avoid being seen, Michael's intention was not to mount until
after turning a corner some two hundred feet from the wood.
Unfortunately, just at the moment that he was issuing from the wood,
an Usbeck's horse, scenting him, neighed and began to trot along
the road. His master ran to catch him, and seeing a shadowy form
moving in the dim light, "Look out!" he shouted.
At the cry, all the men of the bivouac jumped up, and ran to seize
their horses. Michael leaped on his steed, and galloped away.
The two officers of the detachment urged on their men to follow.
Michael heard a report, and felt a ball pass through his tunic.
Without turning his head, without replying, he spurred on, and,
clearing the brushwood with a tremendous bound, he galloped at full
speed toward the Obi.
The Usbecks' horses being unsaddled gave him a small start,
but in less than two minutes he heard the tramp of several
horses gradually gaining on him.
Day was now beginning to break, and objects at some distance were
becoming visible. Michael turned his head, and perceived a horseman
rapidly approaching him. It was the deh-baschi.
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