"We shall have to pass by Tandakora's band and perhaps other bands in the night," said Tayoga.
"It's possible, too," said Willet, "that they know we're on our way to the fort, and may try to stop us. Our critical time will soon be at hand."
They listened throughout the afternoon for the signals that bands might make to one another, but heard nothing. Willet, in truth, was not surprised.
"Silence will serve them best," he said, "and they'll send runners from band to band. Still, if they do give signals we want to know it."
"There is a river, narrow but deep, about five miles ahead," said Tayoga, "and we'll have to cross it on our way to the fort. I think it is there that Tandakora will await us."
"It's pretty sure to be the place," said Willet. "Do you know where there's a ford, Tayoga?"
"There is none."
"Then we'll have to swim for it. That's bad. But you say it's a narrow stream?"
"Yes, Great Bear. Two minutes would carry us across it."
"Then we must find some place for the fording where the trees lean over from either side and the shadow is deep."