He intended to see, if he could, whether the main Mexican force was approaching.

If it should prove to be at hand with the heavy cannon there would be no possible chance of holding the mission, and they must get away.
He continued in his wide curve, knowing that in this case the longest way around was the best and safest, and he gradually passed into a stretch of chaparral beyond the town.

Crossing it, he came into a meadow, and then he suddenly heard the soft pad of feet.

He sought to spring back into the chaparral, but a huge dim figure bore down upon him, and then his heart recovered its normal beat when he saw that it was only Old Jack.
Ned stroked the great muzzle affectionately, but he was compelled to put away his friend.
"No, faithful comrade," he said.

"I can't take you with me.