He began to think of improving Surprise Valley as a place to live in, for there was no telling how long they would be compelled to stay there.

Venters stubbornly resisted the entering into his mind of an insistent thought that, clearly realized, might have made it plain to him that he did not want to leave Surprise Valley at all.

But it was imperative that he consider practical matters; and whether or not he was destined to stay long there, he felt the immediate need of a change of diet.

It would be necessary for him to go farther afield for a variety of meat, and also that he soon visit Cottonwoods for a supply of food.
It occurred again to Venters that he could go to the canyon where Oldring kept his cattle, and at little risk he could pack out some beef.
He wished to do this, however, without letting Bess know of it till after he had made the trip.

Presently he hit upon the plan of going while she was asleep.
That very night he stole out of camp, climbed up under the stone bridge, and entered the outlet to the Pass.