Even they were so confident that nothing threatened, that they became less vigilant than usual.
"Sh! now is the time," whispered the youthful leader.

They had decided long before upon their plan of action, so that no time was now lost in consultation.

Kit and five of his men began slowly creeping toward their horses.

This was anything but a pleasant occupation, for the snow, it will be remembered, was deep on the ground; but such veterans cared nothing for a trifle like that, and they speedily reached their animals.
Such an attempt is always a dangerous one, for the horse of the Indian or white hunter often proves his most skilful sentinel.

He is able to detect the stealthy approach of a scout, long before the straining ear of his master can catch the slightest sound.