Stormont had, no doubt, given orders that no smoke must be made.

A tent, half seen in the gloom, stood at the edge of the bush, but Thirlwell could not see the packers.

It looked as if they were asleep, because all was quiet except for the wind in the trees and the distant splash of the creek.

The breeze was light but blew off the shore.

This would suit Thirlwell's plan, but it would be difficult not to make some noise and he must not be caught.