Modocs. The two tribes have long been enemies. The Pitt
Rivers were not parties to the treaty at Yreka. Raids from
either side were common. The latter made a successful raid
into the Mocloc country, driving away a large number of horses
belonging to the allied tribes. Wi-ne-ma being on a visit to
her people shared the loss. Frank had given her a very fine
saddle-horse. This horse was among those stolen by the Pitt
Rivers. The pursuit was organized, and with it went our
heroine, determined to save her horse. The captors were over-
taken and found to be in strong force; an engagement ensued,
and the pursuers were driven back; Wi-ne-ma assumed com-
mand. Another fight ensued. The day was doubtful. The
woman-chief encouraged her braves. They had not consented
for her to take the advance. Enraged at the loss of some of
her fighting men, she made a charge at the head of her braves
with such audacity and skill, that the Pitt Rivers, accustomed
to fight individual style, each man for himself, were taken by
surprise and completely routed, leaving three dead warriors
and the stolen horses in the possession of the Modocs. Wi-
ne-ma refused to allow the dead Indians to be scalped or
mutilated. Satisfied with the recovery of the horses and the
victory over her enemies, she saddled her recaptured horse and
bade her people follow, led the way to Lost River. Some of
the Mocloc braves who were of this party declare that the
woman-chief can whip any man-chief. Those who have seen
her only when in repose cannot form an idea of her wonderful
courage and daring spirit. Few men, or women, of any race
or tribe, have exhibited such examples of personal courage
and sagacity as Wi-ne-ma.
There is a man named Eliot, living at Yreka, who does not hesitate to declare that to Wi-ne-ma he owes his life. He was engaged in combat with a Shasta Indian, when the squaw^ of the latter came to the assistance of "her man," with a drawn revolver. Wi-ne-ma, taking in the danger, sprang forward, wrenched the pistol from the hands of the infuriated squaw, fired it in the air above her head, then* holding her arms, com- pelled her to observe neutrality. The fight ended and no great
