Sit down on the ground, and have your rifle ready.

If I'm discovered and have to run for it you shoot the first of my pursuers." Ned obeyed and Obed stole down toward the horses.

Ned knew his comrade's skill, and he believed he would employ the soft whistle that had been so effective with the first horse.

He watched the dark figure stealing forward, and he admired Obed's skill.

It would be almost impossible for anyone to notice so faint a shadow in the darkness.