Fields and another man kept a watch upon the plain, and the rest conferred under the trees.

The Panther announced that by a great reduction of rations the food could be made to last two days longer.

It was not a cheerful statement, as the Mexicans must know the scanty nature of their supplies, and would wait with all the patience of Indians.
"All things, including starvation, come to him who waits long enough," said Obed White soberly.
"We'll jest set the day through," said the Panther, "an' see what turns up." But the day was quite peaceful.

It was warmer than usual and bright with sunshine.

The Mexicans appeared on some of the knolls, seemingly near in the thin clear air, but far enough away to be out of rifle shot, and began to play cards or loll on their serapes.