Them red devils might'r overlooked a rifle er two back thar in the timber, an' I'd sure like ter git my fingers on one." I nodded indifferently, too completely exhausted myself to care what he did, and then dull-eyed watched him disappear through the trees.

No one spoke, even Eloise failing to question me, as I approached where she and Elsie had flung themselves on the short grass, although her heavy eyes followed my movement, and she made an effort to smile.
"One can easily see by your face how tired you are," I said, compassionately, looking kindly down at her.

"I am going to sleep for an hour or two, and you had both better do the same.

Tim is going to keep guard." She smiled wearily at me, her head sinking back.

I did not move, or speak again; indeed I had lost consciousness almost before I touched the ground.
I could not have slept long, for there was a glow of light still visible in the western sky, when a strong grip on my arm aroused me, causing me instantly to sit up.