"Folks, it is my opinion that we had better prepare for trouble.

I smell it in the air." "Don't you think that it would be wise to protect our equipment ?" suggested Anne.
Grace pondered, then announced that for the present they would do nothing beyond looking for a place not only to stow their belongings, but to safeguard themselves in case of trouble.

They found such a place in a cave that Hippy had discovered that morning, the opening to which was on a slight rise of ground, commanding a wide view across the valley below it.
The party investigated the cave, and, finding it suited to their needs, began to move into it.

Tents, mess kits, some food and a few blankets were all that were left in the nearby camp.

Hippy then assumed the duty of guarding the party, but not a sign of life did he discover, nor was there a disturbing sound to be heard.