He appealed to their manhood.

"Be men," said he, "Be brave and courageous, and you have more strength than you believe." Thus by example and words he proved to be a true captain to his little band.
Their water was all gone, every drop, and still the foot-hills seemed far away.

The supply of meat ran out.

Tom Shannon killed an ox, and when those who had cattle had taken some, the others who had none were told to divide the rest.

There was no water to dress or cook it, but it helped to sustain life.