I could perceive a few squaws working lazily in the shade of the trees near the bank of the river; but no other moving figures were visible.

Several recumbent forms were within my sight, their faces toward the sun, evidently sleeping off the heavy potations of the night.

Otherwise the great encampment appeared completely deserted; there were no spirals of smoke rising above the lodge-poles, no gossiping groups anywhere about.
It was plain enough to me.

Those of the warriors capable of further action were elsewhere engaged upon some fresh foray, while the majority, overcome by drinking, were asleep within their darkened lodges.

Surely, daylight though it was, no safer moment could be expected in which to establish communication with Toinette.