Chapter 21
MESCALSUMMER gleams of golden sunshine swam under the glistening red
walls of the oasis. Shadows from white clouds, like sails on a
deep-blue sea, darkened the broad fields of alfalfa. Circling
columns of smoke were wafted far above the cottonwoods and floated
in the still air. The desert-red color of Navajo blankets
brightened the grove.
Half-n***d bronze Indians lolled in the shade, lounged on the
cabin porches and stood about the sunny glade in idle groups. They
wore the dress of peace. A single black-tipped white eagle feather
waved above the band binding each black head. They watched the
merry children tumble round the playground. Silvermane browsed
where he listed under the shady trees, and many a sinewy red hand
caressed his flowing mane. Black Bolly neighed
