They followed a trail through Robles' Pass and westward through the Altar Valley.

They watered at the R E Ranch at three in the morning, waking Barnaby Robles; him they bound to silence; and there they let their horses rest and eat of the R E corn while they prepared a hasty breakfast.

Then they pushed on, to waste no brief coolness of the morning hours.

Pete kept word and spirit of his promise to Dewing; not until day was broad in the sky did he tell Stanley of Dewing's disclosure, tidings that displeased Stanley not at all.
It was a gay party on that bright desert morning, though the way led through a dismal country of giant cactus, cholla and mesquite.

Pete noted with amusement that Stanley and Frank-Francis showed some awkwardness and restraint with each other.