One thing was, however, certain--they would be compelled to wait for daylight to ascertain the truth, and decide upon their future movements.

There was another barren, sandy stretch of desolation lying between this isolated valley and that of the Canadian, and their horses would never stand to be pushed forward without both rest and food.

As to themselves--they had eaten their last crumb long since, but this was not the first time both had known starvation.
Keith arose reluctantly, and removed the saddles from the animals, hobbling them so they could graze at will.

Neb was propped up beneath an out-cropping of the bank, which partly protected him from the wind, a mere hulk of a shadow.

Keith could not tell whether he slept or not, but made no effort to disturb him.