Still they knew how stealthily their trail might be followed, and they were vigilant to guard against surprise.

They selected, for their night's encampment, a beautiful spot upon the banks of a clear mountain stream, which emptied into the Arkansas river.

They had there a smooth and verdant meadow, of limited extent, affording fine pasturage.

Here the wearied animals were strongly picketed.

There was also a grove, where they could obtain fuel and timber for such camp protection as they might require.
It was nearly dark when they reached this spot, hungry and tired after the long journey of the day.