about midnight
The precautions against being discovered by those who might be on the watch were now redoubled . Before rounding a bend the Indian waited in a listening attitude to assure himself no one was moving in the immediate vicinity , and when it became necessary to work the canoe along by aid of the foliage the utmost care was exercised to prevent the branches from rustling . As the hours wore on and no attack was made Cummings appeared to be highly elated , and Jake 's gloomy forebodings were dispelled in the thought of the treasure which they might be able to bring away . Once , about midnight , when they halted a moment for Poyor to reconnoiter , Neal whispered to the leader : `` How many nights of this kind of traveling is necessary before we reach the city ? '' `` When we next halt it will be to leave the boat and continue the journey on foot . It was the possible difficulties , not the distance , which rendered the undertaking formidable . '' The Indian returned , stepped into the canoe without speaking , and took up the paddle as if to say there was nothing to prevent them from going ahead .