At any rate, if he were seen he might make a successful flight, and he slipped his hand to the handle of the machete in his belt in order that he might be ready for resistance.
He saw presently two or three dark heaps near him, and as his eyes grew used to the darkness he made out camp equipage and supplies.

The smallest heap which was also nearest to him, consisted of large metal canteens for water, such as soldiers of that day carried.

His thirst suddenly made itself manifest again.

Doubtless those canteens contained water, and his body which wanted water so badly cried aloud for it.
It was not recklessness but a burning thirst which caused him to creep toward the little heap of canteens at the imminent risk of being discovered.

When he reached them he lay flat on the ground and took one from the top.