Hours passed, and Creedon still kept his friends in hiding, and it was
near evening when he stole forth, saying he would take an observation.
After a little he returned and said:

"It's all right; come out."

Creedon said he had discovered evidence that the redskins had really
gone away.

"Why couldn't you have found that out sooner?"

The woodsman laughed and said:

"They might have found me out then; as it was, according to the tales
you and Brooks tell, I took a desperate chance."

"Shall we get to work and have a meal?"

"Not much, young man, you will have to control your appetite for awhile.
Remember, I am captain of this squadron. I'll lead you to a place,
however, where we can build a fire and camp and eat without fear. I am
posted around here; I know the safe places."

The party started on the march, and Desmond felt quite irritated; he had
gone nearly twenty-four hours without eating, and he said:

"I am ready to even fight for a meal."

Creedon laughed and said in reply: