They were as clear as tracks in caked snow.

Then the path of the dried up waterway petered out in an area of rocks and pebbles and beyond that there was no clearly defined way; the brook had evidently trickled down into the lower land taking the path of least resistance among the rocks.
No doubt Tom Slade could have followed that water path to its end, but Hervey was puzzled, baffled.

Yet the enthusiasm which carried him, as though on wings, to his triumphs was aroused now.

He had the prophecy of Tom Slade to strengthen his determination.

He must make good for Tom's sake now, as well as for the sake of his troop.