He was glad to return to the main room, where Bowie and the others were gathered.
The room had been lighted by two windows, facing the San Antonio and two on the side.

They had been closed originally by shutters, which were now gone, but as the windows were narrow the driving rain did not enter far.
One or two of the men, sharing Ned's earlier feeling, spoke up in favor of a fire.

They wanted the cheerfulness that light and warmth give.

But Bowie refused again.
"Not necessary," he said.

"We are here in the enemy's country, and we do not want to give him warning of our presence.