But the Mexicans had melted away completely in the night.

It was likely now that they were going in the opposite direction, and assured that he was safe from them for the time Ned collapsed, both physically and mentally.

Such tremendous exertions and such terrible excitement were bound to bring reaction.

He began to tremble violently, and he became so weak that he could scarcely stand.
The horse seemed to be affected in much the same way and walked slowly and painfully.
Ned saw another little grove, and he and the horse walked straight toward it.

It was fairly dense, and when he was in the center of it he wrapped his rifle and himself in his serape and lay down.