Of course it is important that the despatch be delivered as soon as possible; but you must lose time sooner than run risks.

If you go now, you will be seen by the enemy and be having your horses shot down--perhaps share their fate.

So be cautious, and now once more goodbye, my lads.

I shall look forward to seeing you back with an answering despatch." This was their dismissal, and they hurried away to have another look to their horses, and to see that they were well-fed, before obtaining a meal for themselves and a supply of food to store in their haversacks.
"There's nothing like a bit of foresight," said Ingleborough.

"We must eat, and going in search of food may mean capture and the failure of our mission." The time was gliding rapidly on, the more quickly to West from the state of excitement he was in; but the only important thing he could afterwards remember was that twice over they ran against Anson, who seemed to be watching their actions, and the second time West drew his companion's attention to the fact.
"Wants to see us off," said Ingleborough.