Dick himself, warm, relaxed, and the needs of his body satisfied, felt like going to sleep.

But he watched the boy operator, who presently finished his two dispatches and then lifted his head for the first time.
"They've gone straight into Washington," he said.

"We ought to get an answer soon." "We'll wait here for it," said Dick.
The three messengers were now thoroughly warmed at the stove, they had eaten heartily of the best the village could furnish, and a great feeling of comfort pervaded them.

While they were waiting for the reply that they hoped would come from Washington, Dick Mason and Sergeant Whitley went outside.

No snow was falling in the valley, but off on the mountain crest they still saw the white veil, blown by the wind.
Red Blaze joined them and was everywhere their guide and herald.