Then, looking at me with open eyes, as of one waked from sleep, she said simply, "I cannot!" and remained silent.

I rejoiced, for I knew that what she could not, none of those that we dreaded could.

Though there might be danger to her body, yet her soul was safe! Presently the horses began to scream, and tore at their tethers till I came to them and quieted them.

When they did feel my hands on them, they whinnied low as in joy, and licked at my hands and were quiet for a time.

Many times through the night did I come to them, till it arrive to the cold hour when all nature is at lowest, and every time my coming was with quiet of them.