noon
The band of Urrea , as nearly as they could judge , numbered about fifty , all mounted and armed well . The Mexicans were fine horsemen , and with good training and leadership they were dangerous foes . The three knew them well , and they kept so far behind that they were not likely to be observed . It was only a half hour past noon when Urrea 's men reached the Rio Grande , and without stopping made the crossing . They avoided the quicksands with experienced eyes , and swam their horses through the deep water , the prisoners always kept in the center of the troop . Ned , Obed and the Panther watched them until they passed out of sight . Then they , too , rode forward , although slowly , toward the stream .