Page:Pictures of life in Mexico Vol 2.djvu/135

Rh and measured pace with a troop of their adversaries following stealthily and sulkily close behind, eager for the slaughter but half afraid to commence the attack. The wild cattle however have a bold and intelligent manner of defending themselves from the assault of their obstreperous foes. On the alarm of their near advance they quickly form themselves into a circular or oval phalanx; presenting their fronts, bristling with horns, in every direction to the invaders. It has been said also; that in these arrangements the aged and incapable are placed in the centre for protection. However this may be the foremost of the assailants are sure of encountering a very sharp reception, for the cattle catch them dexterously on their horns and toss them maimed or killed outright into the air. But the unequal engagement cannot last long; for while the wolves are receiving the reward of their presumption, a number of undefended points are unavoidably exposed in the hitherto impenetrable host. These inlets are speedily taken advantage of by other wolves, who fasten upon the sides and limbs of their victims, and are not to be shaken off. The result usually is, that a goodly number of the