hing as, after a long examination of
Chris's pony, the animals were headed towards the camp, and driven
slowly in towards where they were regularly watered every night; and so
well had all the preparations been timed that it was too dark for any
scouts on the opposite side to see that after the watering, every beast
was hobbled and held in readiness for the start that was to be made.

And now the business preparatory to the start was set about eagerly.
The mules were laden with the much-reduced loads. Skeeter had his, but
his bell was muffled so that it would be perfectly silent, and the
water-barrels were hung in position across the back of their regular
bearer.

There was plenty of time, and the doctor's principal efforts were
directed towards arresting hurry, for he had to allow for the Indian
scouts to make their way back to the camp from which they came.

"If they have gone back," he said, in a low voice, as the adventurous
party sat together talking in a low tone, each with his weapons ready.

"Yes," said Wilton, "if they have gone back. Suppose they have chosen
this of all nights for an attack!"

"They'll find that we are quite ready for them; that's all," said Griggs
coolly.

"But it is possible," said Bourne sadly.

"So's everything else, sir," replied the American. "But don't you think
it's a pity to begin fancying what might happen?"

"Perhaps so," said Bourne. "I beg pardon; I'm afraid I do anticipate a
good deal. Well, boys," he added, turning to where the pair sat
together whispering, "how do you feel about to-night's work?"

"Horrid, father," whispered Ned, as if he felt that Indians might be
listening.

"And you, Chris?" continued Bourne.

"I feel as if I shall be glad when it's to-morrow and we know the
worst."

"Or the best, my boy," said the doctor cheerily. "There, I think we
might start now. The moon has set, and we have a long dark night before
us for our work. What do you say, Griggs? Ready?"

"And willing, sir. I go first, don't I?"

"Yes, with Chris as advance-guard. You know the signal if the Indians
are coming on to an attack--one shot each, and then you stand fast to
give us time to start the train back before coming to your support."

"Yes, sir; it's all cut deep into me, but I don't think we shall have
any trouble there."

"I hope not," said the doctor.

Within half-an-hour from these words being spoken the little
baggage-train was in motion, dimly-seen bene