She was "having a good time" and that was reason enough for leisurely travel.

In consequence their provisions had run low.
It was decided to send forward a scouting party to the Hudson's Bay Post some thirty miles further on to restock their commissariat.

Accordingly Knight and Fielding were despatched on this mission, the rest of the party remaining in camp.
"A lazy day or two in camp is what we all need," said Mr.Howland.

"I confess I am quite used up myself, and therefore I know you must all feel much the same." On the fourth day the scouting party appeared.
"There's war!" cried Knight as he touched land.

He flung out a bundle of papers for Mr.Howland.
"War!" The word came back in tones as varied as those who uttered it.
"War!" said Mr.Howland.