The campfire was now glowing embers. The sky was lightening in the east. And the preparations for the long journey had begun. Laura had been brought near the wagon and a riding crop made Their expectations clear - start high-stepping in place.

Meanwhile one of Them, the Leader, returned from behind the wagon, where He had played noisily with the hairless ponygirl most of the night. He was quick-marching her to her place at the front of wagon.

Laura shuddered. With just the two of them to pull the big wagon, it was likely to be a long, trying day.