The advance was very slow and in silence save for the dip of the oars and
the paddles. The moonlight grew stronger and stronger, and they could now
see a good distance on the deep, still bayou.
The five had remained in the leading boats and they watched closely for
sight or sound of the hostile force, but as yet eye and ear told nothing.
The trees now grew close to the water's edge and, looped heavily with
trailing vines, they presented a black wall on either side. But they had
no fear of shots from such a source, as they knew that the trusty
riflemen going in advance would clear out any skirmishers who might have
hidden themselves there.
Paul was beside Henry. Near him was Long Jim and in the boat next to them
was Shif'less Sol and Tom Ross. At this moment, which they felt to be
heavy with import, it was good to be together. Paul in particular, Paul,
the impressionable and imaginative, looked around at the familiar figures
in the clearing moonlight, and drew strength and comfort from their near
presence.
The dark fleet moved slowly on, cutting the deep still waters of the bayou
with almost noiseless keel. The men had ceased whispering. Now and then an
oar splashed or the water gave back the echo of a paddle's dip, but little
else was heard.
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