“I was just thinking it’s about time,” laughed Dr. Kirshner.
Tishmak had purposely picked out a deep gulch between the mounds as the stopping place. This would be a fair precaution against the nomad bandits who were reputed to be in this region.
“Takes a guide to know what’s best,” remarked Bob, observing the high walls of sand all about them. “The country in this vicinity is so rough that a caravan wouldn’t come anywhere near it, especially later on, when it will be pitch dark.”
The explorers dismounted and got out the tent. The poles were put up, and in a short time everything was in readiness for the night’s sleep.
“Curl up tightly in your blankets,” advised Mr. Lewis, as he prepared to occupy a corner of the tent. “It will be very cold along toward dawn.”
“And will we sleep!” said Bob, throwing himself down in relaxation.
Bob’s prediction proved right. The boys enjoyed the deep slumber that only an explorer can experience. It was wholly unexpected that they be awakened at dawn by their elders.
“It’s a dirty trick!” grinned Joe, as his father urged him to fully awaken.
“I know,” the naturalist said sympathetically. “But we must be on our way before the sun gets so hot that traveling will be dangerous.”
But once up, it was easy to forget sleepiness and enjoy the early-morning air.