If Tom was a philosopher, in his humble way, he was reasonable enough to admit that a man could not live without eating.

At this point, therefore, the question of rations became a serious and solemn problem; and the longer it remained unsolved the more difficult and harassing it became.
After he had rested all the forenoon in a secluded spot, without interruption from man or beast, he decided to settle this question of rations once for all.

If impudence had enabled him to pass a line of rebel sentries, it ought to furnish him with a dinner.

Leaving his hiding place, he walked till he discovered a small house, at which he determined to apply for something to eat..