midnight
We now prepared for another night , every one being aware that before it was over we might be engaged in a deadly struggle for our lives , for it was more than probable that the Indians , though defeated , might make another attempt to surprise us . As all the grass within the camp had been consumed , it was necessary to allow the cattle and horses to remain outside , three men being stationed to watch them . I felt very thankful when I was able to wrap myself up in my buffalo robe , and go to sleep , and so I am sure were all hands to lie down and rest . Some time after midnight my ears caught the sound of firing . I started to my feet , and seized my rifle , expecting to find that the camp was attacked , every one else also was aroused . The reports had come from the direction where the cattle we feeding , and presently Uncle Denis and I , who hurried out to ascertain the cause of the alarm , met them , urged on by the voices of their drovers , moving leisurely towards the camp . On coming up to one of the men , Tim Casey by name , we inquired where the enemy had been seen , for we could perceive no objects moving anywhere .