noon before
They made good progress , but when the sun set they had not yet reached a point from which the most distant view of Hurricane Hill could be obtained . A more moderate speed was kept up until midnight , when they went into camp , picketed their animals , and resumed the march at daybreak . The horses were forced to the greatest possible endurance , but never did miles seem so long . It was high noon before a point among the hills on the north was reached from which a fair view of the pile of rocks could be obtained . Colonel Chadmund produced his glass , and scrutinized the towering-like mass , in quest of some sign of the defenders . Not the least could be obtained ; but he saw at the base the band of Apaches , spread out like a miniature besieging army , and this , to the minds of all , was proof that the garrison of Hurricane Hill were still at the post of duty . It was necessary to approach as close to the spot as possible without discovery , and then to charge down upon the Indians with such fiery impetuosity that they would have no time to inflict any damage upon the brave defenders .