The creek plunged over a 10-foot cliff, creating a lovely waterfall and a
formidable obstacle to farther progress. For a time we contemplated retracing
our steps, but the day was old, and our legs had lost their spring.
1. iwas a long time ago, and our legs had lost their spring
2. iwasalong time ago and we had not yet reached the fountain
3. twas ]ate then and our leg muscles had become stiff
4. iwas late then and we had not yet reached the fountain