They would have to remain in the cabin, for it would be inhuman of him to compel them to stay very long in the dugout with the horses.

Thus was Miss Wharton shielded against the impropriety of staying for any length of time in the cabin with him, alone.
But the safeguard of propriety was also a danger.

Because Link had permitted a certain light to glow in his eyes Lawler had knocked him down.

If the four of them were to remain in the cabin for any length of time, there would be periods when he must sleep.

And then Link---- Lawler's thoughts broke off here, for he heard a sound at the door--Givens' voice, saying hoarsely: "For God's sake, Boss, let us in! We're freezin' to death!" Lawler got up and walked to the door.