Even with his warm double blankets he could not sleep in the forest on such a night.

Besides the horse would need food.
He rode on briskly for a full hour, anxiously watching both sides of the road for a cabin or cabin smoke.

By that time night had come fully, though fortunately it was clear but very cold.

He saw then on the right a faint coil of smoke rising against the dusky sky and he rode straight for it.
The smoke came from a strong double cabin, standing about four hundred yards from the road, and the sight of the heavy log walls made Dick all the more anxious to get inside them.

The cold had grown bitter and even his horse shivered.
As he approached two yellow curs rushed forth and began to bark furiously, snapping at the horse's heels, the usual mountain welcome.
But when a kick from the horse grazed the ear of one of them they kept at a respectful distance.
"Hello! Hello!" called Dick loudly.
This also was the usual mountain notification that a guest had come, and the heavy board door of the house opened inward.