every hour after midnight
Even her slight additional weight sent him almost waist deep into the snow . He could scarcely move ! And ere long the Heir-to-Empire would doubtless weary also ; then what was to be done ? For every hour after midnight would bring the thawing sun nearer and nearer ; they might have to remain on the Pass till night brought frost again , and in that case what would become of the children ? Then suddenly his eye caught Tumbu , who was marching along sullenly , Down nestling , fast clawed in his broad , furry back . Could the dog carry a child ? A creature with four feet had greater purchase of foothold than one with two .