The trees proved to be pecans, aspens and oaks growing so densely that he was compelled to dismount and lead Old Jack before they could force an entrance.

Inside he found a clear space, somewhat like the openings of the north, in shape an irregular circle, but not more than fifteen feet across.

Great spreading boughs of oaks had protected it so well that but little snow had fallen there, and that little had melted.
Already the ground in the circle was drying.
Ned uttered an exclamation of relief and gratitude.

This would be his camp, and to one used to living in the wilderness it furnished good shelter.

At one edge of the opening was an outcropping of flat rock now quite dry, and there he would spread his bed.