Seems to me I've been chased by Shawnees all over this here continent of North Ameriky!" Paul laughed low, from pure pleasure--pleasure at his escape and pleasure in the courage, loyalty, and skill of his comrades.
"You may be tired, Sol," he said, "but there was never a braver man than you." "It ain't bravery," protested the shiftless one.

"I get into these things afore I know it, an' then I've got to kick like a mule to get out o' 'em." But Paul merely laughed low again.
Henry turned from the north to the west, and led now at a pace that was little more than a walk.

Paul and Sol drew deep breaths, as they felt the heavenly air flowing back into their lungs and the spring returning to their muscles.

They went in Indian file, five dusky figures in the shadow, a faint moonlight touching them but wanly, and all silent.

Thus they marched until past midnight, and they heard nothing behind them.