The night was about gone, and, while their mustangs halted, they observed
that it was growing light in the east. They would be forced to ride
through the dangerous territory by day, so that the risk of detection
would be proportionately greater if their enemies should be in the
vicinity. Both the mustangs were fresh and vigorous, however, having
enjoyed an unusually long rest, with plenty of food, and they were good
for many hours of speed and endurance. The one ridden by Fred had behaved
in a very seemly fashion, and there was ground for the hope that he would
keep up the line of conduct to the end. Still there could be no certainty
of what he would do in the presence of the Apaches.

"We'll take it aisy," said Mickey, as the two started off at an easy
gallop. "We'll not be afther putting 'em to a run till we have to do the
same, so that when there's naad for their spaad, we shall have it at
command." This prudent suggestion was carried out. Their horses dropped
into a sweeping gallop that was as easy as an ordinary walk. The riders
kept their senses awake, talking only a little, and then in guarded
voices.

As they galloped along the sun rose, and the day promised to be as warm
and pleasant as those which had preceded it. The sky was obscured only by
a few fleecy clouds, while the deep blue beyond was as beautiful as that
of Italy. Drawing near the cave in the mountain, they pulled their horses
down to a walk and carefully guided them into the softest places, so as to
make the noise of their hoofs as slight as possible. Nothing occurred
until they were a short distance beyond the dangerous spot, when Mickey
spoke.

"Do you obsarve that stream there?" he asked, pointing to a rather deep
brook which ran across the pass, and lost itself in the rocks upon the