“He say he wanted to stay here for night, but thought we in big hurry,” Fekmah told the Americans.
“We are,” returned Mr. Holton. “But here is a very good place to camp, and I think we’d better take advantage of the opportunity.”
The tent and provisions were unpacked from the camels, which seemed more than glad of the chance to relax.
“Funny,” remarked Mr. Lewis, “that camels don’t care to lie in the shade when there is an opportunity. You would think the terrible sun would be avoided as much as possible, but that is not the case.”
“Either they like the heat or they are too lazy to move,” said Joe.
For some time the two youths sat with their elders. Then Bob got up and stretched.
“Suppose you and I get on our dromedaries and ride over to that distant hill,” he said to Joe, pointing away to the horizon. “I’d like to see what’s beyond there. This seems to be very high ground, and we might get a view of the distant mountains from the top of that dune.”
“Be sure and take your rifles, boys,” warned Mr. Lewis. “And don’t stay too long.”
The boys slung their guns over their shoulders and rode off, waving to their friends.