In the same breath it flashed upon him that Bram's activity in the destruction of his weapons meant that his life was spared, at least for the present.

Otherwise Bram would not be taking these precautions.
The futility of speech kept his own lips closed.

At last Bram looked at him, and pointed to his snowshoes where he had placed them last night against the snow dune.

His invitation for Philip to prepare himself for travel was accompanied by nothing more than a grunt.
The wolves were returning, sneaking in watchfully and alert.

Bram greeted them with the snap of his whip, and when Philip was ready motioned him to lead the way into the north.