Spring came at last, and the snow line gradually rose among the distant hills and, at last, the chief announced that they could now start for their summer home.
The news was received with general satisfaction, for the night watches and the constant expectation of attack weighed heavily upon them all.

The decision was announced at dawn and, three hours afterwards, the animals were packed and they set out on the march.
They had started a fortnight earlier than usual for, if they had waited till the usual time, their old enemies would probably have placed an ambush.
They travelled without a halt, until they were well among the hills.

Then the wearied beasts were unladen, fires were lighted, and a meal cooked.

But even yet they were not altogether safe from attack; and sentries were posted, some distance down the hill, to give notice of the approach of an enemy.

The night, however, passed quietly; and the next evening they were high among the hills, and camped, for the first time for three months, with a sense of security.
It was determined to rest here for a few days, for they had almost reached the snow line.