RODERICK HOLDS THE WOONGAS AT BAY They traveled more slowly now and Rod found his strength returning.

When they reached the second ridge he took Mukoki by the arm and assisted him up, and the old Indian made no demur.

This spoke more strongly of his hurt than words.

There was still no sign of their enemies behind.

From the top of the second ridge they could look back upon a quarter of a mile of the valley below, and it was here that Rod suggested that he remain on watch for a few minutes while Wabigoon went on with Mukoki.
The young hunters could see that the Indian was becoming weaker at every step, and Mukoki could no longer conceal this weakness in spite of the tremendous efforts he made to appear natural.
"I believe it is bad," whispered Wabi to Rod, his face strangely white.
"I believe it is worse than we think.