There was probably a scouting detail somewhere near at hand, either approaching from the east, alarmed by the report of the fleeing stage crew, or else a detachment tracking Roman Nose's warriors across those plains extending into the north.
The latter contingency was the more probable, judging from the Indians' flight, and his own knowledge of the small reserve force left at Dodge.
Besides, ride as they might those two fleeing cowards of yesterday could hardly have yet reached that shelter of safety and might not confess the truth of their desertion even when they did arrive.

A pursuing force was the only real hope for escaping the necessity of a hard tramp back over the trail.

Well, the girl looked fit, and he glanced toward her appreciatively.
In spite of the sad experiences of the past night she was a pleasant spectacle, her eyes bright with excitement, her cheeks flushed under the morning sun which flecked her dark, disordered hair with odd color.
Hers was a winsome face, with smiling lips, and frank good nature in its contour.

He was surprised to note how fresh and well she looked.
"Are you tired ?" "Not very.

It seems more as though I had dreamed all this than actually passed through the experience.