PRAIRIE -WOLVES ATTACKING A BUFFALO. 43 



en recalled pleasant memories, and their services have sev- 

 eral times recovered a wounded deer. In a few minutes 

 the apparent ringleader of the quartette got up and shook 

 himself. This was the signal for the others to get upon 

 their pins. Prairie-wolf number one walked quietly toward 

 the bull, occasionally stopping (after the manner of dogs to 

 pluck grass) ; then, with a sudden spring, made a feint at 

 the persecuted buffalo's head. The buffalo, in his turn, low- 

 ered his head, and advanced a few steps to meet him ; but 

 this was unnecessary. Now the rest of the fraternity rush- 

 ed up. Another took the post of teaser, while our friend 

 number one dropped in the rear ; and when a second feint 

 at the head was made by his comrade, number one, watching 

 his chance, left a deep scar over the bull's hock. Again 

 and again this game was played, the same wolf always re- 

 taining his rear position. Is not the instinct of animals 

 most similar to the reason of man ? Here each wolf had 

 his allotted work, doubtless that which was best suited for 

 his capacity. The rear assault was the most dangerous; 

 for a kick well directed would unquestionably have caused 

 instant death to the adventurous assailant; but the most 

 experienced and expert had selected the post of danger and 

 honor. The flashing eyes and foaming mouth of the bull 

 told plainly the result ; so I stepped from my concealment. 

 However, all were so occupied that until I awakened the 

 echoes with a loud " war-whoop " I was unseen ; but man's 

 voice always has its effect in cases of this kind. The ver- 

 min, with startled stare, plainly asking what the deuce right 

 I had to interfere, sulkily trotted off as I advanced ; while 

 the persecuted, in return for my kindness, lowered his head, 

 and pushed rapidly for me, compelling me to seek safety in 

 flight. Such conduct in the buffalo was scarcely commend- 

 able, and very unusual. I accounted for it by the harass- 

 ing his temper had suffered, as well as his feeling how in- 



