The third and fourth animals back were the water carriers, and Bob lost no time in filling his container. Then he drank freely of the refreshing liquid, and felt new life creep into him. Although warm, the water did wonders in quenching his thirst.
Again he filled the container and rode back to his friend, who was delighted.
“I was afraid they wouldn’t let you have it,” Joe said, wiping the perspiration from his brow.
“Wouldn’t have, only there’s a well not far away, and we’ll have a chance to refill the tanks.”
“Well, huh? Wonder if they’re this close together all along?”
“Let’s hope so.”
A little later the explorers passed a scattering of bones and skeletons that were partly covered with sand. They were dry from age, having probably been uncovered by a sandstorm.
“Camels’ bones, I suppose,” remarked Joe. “They’ve become overcome with thirst, most likely.”
“Who knows but that the skeletons of their riders are there some place, too,” said Bob, his face sober.
The sight was not a pleasant one, for it brought to mind the fact that it was altogether too possible that their little caravan might perish for want of water also. Some time elapsed before the boys resumed their cheerful mood.