After a time they were able to relax these measures, for nothing was either heard or seen of their opponent, and they hoped that time had cooled his vindictiveness.
Far from doing so, it had, if anything, augmented it.

The hunter's mind was of a hard, unyielding nature, and the predominant idea of revenge had taken such complete possession of it that there was no room for any other emotion.

He was, however, above all things practical.

He soon realized that even his iron constitution could not stand the incessant strain which he was putting upon it.

Exposure and want of wholesome food were wearing him out.