midnight
They dressed and broiled a few steaks of it , but hesitated to build a large fire , for fear that straggling Indians might see the smoke rising above the tree tops , which would direct them on their trail . After satisfying their hunger , taking the remainder and the basket of berries , they again set out on their journey and travelled until sunset , when they encamped in a valley for the night . They had put out their fire , and with Whirlwind for sentinel , had a feeling of security , which they acknowledged by the deep sleep which enshrouded them . At midnight he was relieved by the trapper , and he too slept soundly . About the second hour of Howe 's watch , his ear was attracted by stealthy advancing steps , and in a few moments within ten paces of the sleepers , gleamed a pair of glaring eyes flashing in the darkness that surrounded them , like coals of fire . `` A panther , '' muttered the trapper , and then he continued as if the beast could understand him , `` you had better stand back , old fellow , if you have any respect for yourself . We shall not accommodate you with a meal to-night , so keep back . ''