noon
They were working by a preconcerted arrangement , like corresponding parts of some machine , understanding each other so well that there was no need for explanation . The boy also used his to the best advantage possible , often turning his head and scanning the prairie and horizon , but not a single time did he discern anything that looked like Indians . Had he been alone , he would have journeyed serenely forward , certain that no danger of any kind threatened . At noon , a brief halt was made as they struck the margin of a small stream , the water of which was rather warm and muddy , the buffaloes having probably disturbed it at some point above . The horses quaffed their fill , and upon the suggestion of Tom , Ned did the same . There was a good deal of significance when he uttered the words . `` It may be a good while before you get a chance at another . ''