noon
Indians were always impressed with an unusual display of ability of any kind , and they felt that its possessor was endowed with magic . He walked freely among the ponies , which would have turned their heels on the Indian lads , and stroked their manes and noses . The warriors went away without saying anything . The Indian boys returned to the village shortly after noon , but their place was taken by a fresh band , while Will remained on duty . Nor was he allowed to leave until long after twilight , when , surprised to find how weary he was , he dragged his feet to the tepee of Inmutanka , where he had venison , pemmican and water . `` Not so bad , '' he said to the old Indian . `` I believe I 'm a good herd for ponies , though I 'd rather do it riding than walking . ''