"From here I can see where the stool of the guard rested near the fire," continued Overton. "From that it would seem fair to conclude that one of the prowlers got this far, found our guard awake, and then retired."
"It would be interesting to know who our visitors were," nodded Lieutenant Prescott.
"I've changed my mind about going hunting to-day," went on Sergeant Hal. "While the rest of you are out after game I am going to remain right here."
"The camp is guarded by two reliable men," remarked Mr. Prescott.
"True enough, sir, but they're not real guards, for both will have their hands full with camp housework," objected the boyish sergeant. "They can't do real guard duty, or else we'd all have to turn to get the evening meal in a rush. So I've decided to remain behind to-day."
"And, on the whole, I think you're wise to do it, Sergeant," approved the lieutenant.
So, while the main party hied itself away soon after, Hal Overton remained behind with the two camp duty men.
Having a couple of good books in his tent, Sergeant Hal donned his olive tan Army overcoat, spread a poncho and a pair of blankets on the ground and lay down to read.
But his rifle and ammunition belt rested beside him.
The morning passed without any event, other than two or three times Sergeant Overton paused long enough in his reading to do some brief scouting past the camp.