He could have sworn that he heard real steps this time--a soft cautious crunching in the snow very near his head.

Breathlessly he listened.

Not a sound broke the silence except the snapping of a dying ember in the fire.

Another dream! Once more he settled back, drawing his blanket closely about him.

Then, for a full breath, the very beating of his heart seemed to cease.
What was that! He was awake now, wide awake, with every faculty in him striving to arrange itself.