For perhaps, after all, he had been unkind in thought to this man.
Time alone would tell.
The boys determined to leave nothing to chance, but ammunition was of even more importance than food. They hoped to find water everywhere, and the biscuits carried, with the roots they should dig, would serve to keep the expedition alive and healthy, with the aid of their good guns.
Medicine was not forgotten, nor medical comforts.
For three whole days Roland trained fast-running Indians to pick up a trail. A man would be allowed to have three miles' start, and then, when he was quite invisible, those human sleuth-hounds would be let loose, and they never failed to bring back their prisoner after a time.
One man at least was much impressed by these trials of skill.
Just a week before the start, and late in the evening, Benee once more presented himself before our young heroes.
"I would speakee you!"
"Well, Benee, say what you please, but all have not yet retired. Dick, get out into the hall, and warn us if anyone approaches."
Dick jumped up, threw his cigarette away, and did as he was told.