Poyor unpacked the provisions, awakened Neal and Teddy, and with a view before them which, under other circumstances, would have called forth expressions of the most lively admiration, the little party made a hearty meal.
It was only natural that on awakening Neal and Teddy should first think of the engineer and his possible fate; but the other two members of the party were so incensed against him that neither cared to speak on the subject.
They asked concerning their location, and were told all that Cummings and Poyor knew, and when the very satisfactory meal was brought to a close the former said as if inviting a discussion:
"We have sufficient food to last us three days if there is no game picked up on the way; but our supply of water threatens to run short very soon unless we can manage to refill the canteens. Are we likely to find a stream among these hills, Poyor?"
"When we descend into the valley there will be no lack of plenty to drink; but on beginning the ascent of the mountains we must be careful not to use too much."
"How long shall we probably be on the range providing every thing works smoothly?"
"But we can only carry water enough for two days at the best."
"Then each one must take but half as much as he needs."
"Of course that would settle the matter; but it is going to be pretty tough to travel in heat without all we want to drink."
"Better that than to fall into the hands of the Chan Santa Cruz," Poyor replied gravely.
"I am willing to admit it; but at the same time I believe we can hit upon some plan of carrying all that may be needed."
"We may find the water pitchers in the forest, and by means of them replenish the supply."
"That is figuring upon a possibility, and we are by no means certain of getting what we want."
"There is plenty of time to think the matter over, for, unless we are discovered, it will be necessary to stay here until night. Will you sleep now?"
"You need rest more than I," Cummings replied. "Lie down while I stand guard."
The Indian did not hesitate; it made very little difference who remained on watch providing the utmost vigilance was maintained, and he stretched himself on the ground at the farther end of the ravine where he could be sheltered from the rays of the sun.