"Yes; come on; there's a little water hole down here."
Payne led the way down the bank to a slight hollow where water had seeped up through the mud.
"Go easy on it," he advised as Higgins kneeled by the pool. "It doesn't look extra good to me."
"It's wet anyhow," said Higgins and scooped a double handful to his lips.
He spat instantly.
"What's the matter?"
Higgins again sampled the blackish water.
"Taste it," he said.
Payne obeyed. He looked at Higgins. Then they both stood up, shaking the water from their fingers.
"Salt!"