But during work the beds are seldom made down till after sunset, by which time rattlesnakes have all retired into holes or amongst brush, and so there is little danger from them.
First "guard" goes out to take charge of the herd.

The herd has already been "bedded" down carefully at convenient distance from the wagon.
Bedding down means bunching them together very closely, just leaving them enough room to lie down comfortably.

They, if they have been well grazed and watered, will soon all be lying resting, chewing their cuds and at peace with the world.

Each night-guard consists of two to four men according to the size of the herd, and "stands" two to four hours.
The horse herd is also guarded by "reliefs." In fine weather it is no great hardship to be called out at any hour of the night, but if it should be late in autumn and snow falling, or, what is worse still, if there be a cold rain and a bitter wind it is very trying to be compelled to leave your warm bed at twelve or three in the morning, get on to your poor shivering horse and stand guard for three hours.
It should be explained that "standing" means not absolute inaction but slowly riding round and round the herd.

Yes, it is trying, especially in bad weather and after working hard all day long from before sun-up.