Ned saw with a shiver that they were vultures.

Obed saw them, too, and he also saw Ned's face pale a little.
"You take it as an omen," he said, "and maybe it is, but it's a poor omen that won't work both ways.

They're flying back now towards the Indians, so I guess the Lipans had better look out." Nevertheless, both were depressed by the appearance of the vultures and the heat that afternoon grew more intense than ever.

The horses, at last, began to show signs of weariness, but Ned reflected that for every mile they traveled the Lipans must travel one also, and he recalled the words of Obed that chance might come to their aid.
Another night followed, clear and bright, with the great stars dancing in the southern skies, and Ned and Obed rode long after nightfall.

Again the Lipans sank from sight, and, as before, the two stopped on one of the swells.
"Now, Obed," said Ned, "it is your time to sleep and mine to watch.