having been such that they had very speedily learned that it was
nothing more than a human invention, which of itself could accomplish
little or no harm.

He could but reflect, as the man glided slowly along, that if he had
the three friends beside him, how easily they could glide away in the
darkness and leave all danger behind.

But they were in the extremity of peril already, and, reflect and
cogitate as much as he chose, he could see no earthly way of assisting
them out of their difficulty.

Besides the concern which he naturally felt regarding his friends,
there was a matter that more clearly related to himself that demanded
his attention.

The water in the tank was at its lowest ebb, and it would be dangerous
for him to attempt to run more than one hour or so longer before
replenishing it. Consequently he was unable to stand anything like
another chase from the Indians.

As the part of prudence, therefore, he turned toward the river,
following slowly along the bank, in quest of some place where it would
be easy and safe for him to secure the much-needed water.

It was a long and discouraging hunt. The banks were so high that he
could find no point where it was safe for him to descend to the
water's edge. There was too great a risk of 'upsetting his cart,' a
calamity which, in all probability, would be irreparable.