They sat and talked to the men around them, swapping notes and experiences, and in several instances found former friends and acquaintances.

These men were not bound and were apparently members of Buck's force.

Then one of them broke down, but quickly regained his nerve and proposed a game of cards.

A fire was started and several games were immediately in progress.

These seven men were to die at daybreak.
As the night grew older man after man rolled himself in his blanket and lay down where he sat, sinking off to sleep with a swiftness that bespoke tired muscles and weariness.