Before this the Apaches had discovered that it was useless to try to overtake the little party and had given up the attempt. For the present nothing was to be feared from them.
“There is reason to believe they will not push any further eastward,” said Freeman, giving expression rather to his hope than his conviction.
“Why do you think that?”
“They have learned that their presence is known in this neighborhood and that a force will be sent out from the fort, if it has not already been sent—halloo!”
The speaker, happening to glance at Cemuri, was shocked to observe the startling effects of his wound. The exclamation of Freeman caused the others to note the same, and the horses came to a halt.
“That looks bad,” remarked the lieutenant; “let me examine it.”
“Huh! no hurt—soon be well,” said Cemuri, with a look of contempt, and displeased at the expressions of sympathy.
“It may get well if it’s attended to,” was the comment of Decker, who insisted upon an inspection of the hurt.
It did not seem to be dangerous, but it was clear that it required attention. From the clothing of different ones were torn sufficient bandages to stanch the flow, and despite the indifference of the scout he must have felt extreme pain.