midnight
For some time the long line could be seen by the Rose of Oregon passing swiftly up the mountain-side . Then , as distance united the individuals , as it were , to each other , it assumed the form of a mighty snake crawling _ slowly _ along . By degrees it crawled over the nearest ridge and disappeared , after which Betty went to discuss the situation with Unaco 's old mother . It was near midnight when the robber-band encamped in a wooded hollow which was backed on two sides by precipices and on the third by a deep ravine . `` A good spot to set a host at defiance , '' remarked Stalker , glancing round with a look that would have expressed satisfaction if the wounded arm had allowed . `` Yes , '' added the trapper , `` and -- '' A violent fit of coughing prevented the completion of the sentence , which , however , when thought out in Drake 's mind ran -- `` a good spot for hemming you and your scoundrels in , and starving you into submission ! '' A short time sufficed for a bite of cold supper and a little whiff , soon after which the robber camp , with the exception of the sentinels , was buried in repose .