It grew very hot in the alcove.

No breath of wind reached them there, and they began to pant for air.
"I hope night will come soon," said Ned.
"It will be here before long," said Obed, "but something else will arrive first." "What is that ?" "Look, there to the right over the trees.

See the dark spot in the sky.
Ned, my boy, a storm is coming and it is for you and me to say 'let it come.'" "What will it do for us ?" "Break up the siege, or at least I think so.

Unless it drives directly in our faces we will be sheltered out here, but the Mexicans will have no such protection.

And, Ned, if you will listen to one who knows, you will understand that storms down here can be terrific." "Then the more terrific it is the better for us." "Just so.