"
"How could a fellow sleep now?"
"Only the brave and resolute can do it," replied Obed, cunningly.
"Napoleon slept before Austerlitz, and while no Austerlitz is likely to
happen down here in the wilderness of Northern Mexico there is nothing
to keep those who are able from copying a great man."
The appeal to Ned's pride was not lost.
"I think I'll try it," he said.
He lay down behind the log with his rifle by his side, and closed his
eyes. He had no idea that he could go to sleep, but he wished to show
Obed his calmness in face of danger. Yet he did sleep, and he did not
awaken until Obed's hand fell upon his shoulder. He would have sprung
up, all his faculties not yet regained, but Obed's hand pressed him
down.
"Don't forget where you are, Ned," said the Maine man, "and that we are
still besieged."
Yet the night was absolutely still and Ned, from his recumbent position,
looked up at a clear sky and many glittering stars.
"Has anything happened?" he asked.
"Not a thing. No Lipan has shown himself even among the trees."
"About what time do you think it is?"
"Two or three hours after midnight, and now I'm going to take a nap
while you watch. Ned, do you know, I've an idea those fellows are going
to sit in the woods indefinitely, safe, beyond range, and wait for us to
come out.
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