This was a bit of proof that Hendricks and Banks had been giving the scout correct information.
But where were the star-faced cayuses? Had Bascomb and Bernritter some means of taking the animals to the island, along with their own mounts?
Passing the buckboard, Buffalo Bill continued his investigation.
As he came abreast of the island, he grew more cautious in his movements. The short distance which separated the island from the shore, together with the bright moonlight, would enable those on the island to see him unless he was wary and careful.
Creeping onward, several yards from the shore, he finally halted and crouched in the sand.
The island was low and small. It appeared to be covered with large stones, heaped at its center into a sort of breastwork.
No sounds came from the island, and there was no other evidence that criminals had taken possession of it as a rendezvous.
Something nearer the edge of the quicksands captured the scout’s attention, and he crept down to investigate.
Close inspection showed the dark blot to be comprised of a dozen kegs and several boxes. The kegs contained water and the boxes food.
“This is the food and water supply for those on the island,” reasoned the scout. “Presumably Hendricks brought the plunder in the buckboard, and Bascomb and Bernritter have not yet taken it across. It looks as though they were laying in supplies so as to be in shape to withstand a possible siege.”