nearly midday before
Dan had wisely taken the precaution of having the cork drawn from the bottle when he bought it , replacing it so that it could be easily extracted when required , and Vincent acknowledged that the spirit was a not unwelcome addition to the meal . When morning broke they had reached Duck 's River , a broad stream crossing the road . Here they drew aside into a thick grove , and determined to get a few hours ' sleep before proceeding . It was nearly midday before they woke and proceeded to the edge of the trees . Vincent reconnoitered the position . `` It is just as well we did not try to cross , Dan . I see the tents of at least a regiment on the other bank .