While the thought was fresh in his mind the third signal came, and now it was so clear and distinct that it indicated a rapid approach.

But he was still unable to choose a way for his flight and he lingered for a sign from the bird.

If the warriors were stealing through the bushes it would fly directly from them.

At least he believed so, and fancy had so much power over him, especially in such a situation that belief became conviction.
The bird stopped singing suddenly, but kept his perch on the waving bough.

Robert always insisted that it looked straight at him before it uttered two or three sharp notes, and then, rising in the air, hovered for a few minutes above the bough.