On we pressed, our good horses exerting themselves to the utmost, and almost regardless of the boat which poured down upon our heads, until our brains seemed melted, and ready to run from the eyes. Profuse drinking alone saved us from a sun-stroke that day.
At length we reached the plain, and saw stretched before us half a dozen roads, all leading to the mines, but all deserted, for it was at an hour when few travellers cared to move, preferring to wait until the sun had ceased its fiery course, and the earth had thrown off its fervent heat.
"I go no farther," I exclaimed, as I saw that my horse was suffering from his over-exertions.
Mr. Brown reined in, and seemed disposed to take advice.
"Only to the next clump of trees," he replied, pointing to half a dozen, about a mile distant.
"We shall kill the animals, and ourselves in the bargain," I replied.
"A mile or so will make but little difference; I think that I can promise you a good camping ground, and a sink hole with pretty fresh water under those trees; come."
I could no longer resist the inducements, and once more we put our horses in motion.
"See, as I told you, we shall find company under the trees," cried Mr. Brown; "there is smoke arising, and that denotes coffee and supper. Cheer up, and we shall yet learn the news before sunset."