midnight
Retaining two of his companions to act as guards , the others saddled their horses and dispersed by various routes . The chief waited until the moon was well up , then abandoned their camp of the last ten days and set out towards Agua Dulce . To show his friendship for his victim , he removed all irons , but did not give freedom to Don Ramon 's horse , which was led , as before . It was after midnight when they recrossed the river to the American side , using a ford known to but a few smugglers . When day broke they were well inland and secure in the chaparral . Another night 's travel , and they were encamped in the place agreed upon . Reports which the members of the band brought to the chief showed that the authorities had made no movement as yet , so evidently this outrage had never been properly reported .