Obed and Ned turned and rode on.
"We gave 'em a sign," said Obed, "and they saw it.

We're in no danger, Ned.

We could beat 'em either in a fight or a run.

The battle is sometimes to the strong and the race to the swift." It was obvious that the Mexicans, who were probably only scouts, did not want a fight with formidable Texans who carried such long rifles.

They dropped back until Ned, taking a final look, could not tell their distant figures from the stem of the lonesome cactus.
"Horses and rifles are mighty useful in their place," said Obed.