OF THE POLAR SEA. 221 



behind them to await the approach of the 

 buffalo. 



The principal dexterity in this species of 

 chase is shown by the horsemen, who have 

 to manoeuvre round the herd in the plains 

 so as to urge them to enter the roadway, 

 which is about a quarter of a mile broad. 

 When this has been accomplished, they raise 

 loud shouts, and, pressing close upon the 

 animals, so terrify them that they rush 

 heedlessly forward towards the snare. When 

 they have advanced as far as the men who 

 are lying in ambush, they also rise, and in- 

 crease the consternation by violent shooting 

 and firing guns. The affrighted beasts 

 having no alternative, run directly to the 

 pound, where they are quickly despatched, 

 either with an arrow or gun. 



There was a tree in the centre of the 

 pound, on which the Indians had hung 

 strips of buffalo flesh, and pieces of cloth, 

 as tributary or grateful offerings to the 

 Great Master of Life; and we were told 

 that they occasionally place a man in the 

 tree to sing to the presiding spirit as the 



