Scarce a word was spoken as the little party marched along.

It was possible, although very improbable, that the natives, on scattering before the charge of Mr.Blount and his companions, might have left some of their number behind, to watch the movements of their pursuers.

They would, however, certainly not anticipate the whites pushing forward that night.

The fire had been piled high, the last thing before leaving, and the two men left there were told to keep it burning brightly till morning, and to start before anyone watching in the distance would be able to see whether the horses were mounted, or not.

Should any natives approach the fire, after they had gone, they would take it for granted that the whole party had ridden back to the settlement.
All night, Reuben and his companions marched steadily forward; and were glad to throw themselves down on the ground, at the first appearance of daybreak.