And now let's get some rest. We have had a
hard day."
The two tents housing the four white members
of the Bumper party were close together,
and it was decided that the night would be divided
into four watches, to guard against possible
treachery on the part of the Beecher crowd.
"It seems an unkind precaution to take against
a fellow scientist," said Professor Bumper, "but
I can not afford to take chances after what has
occurred."
The others agreed with him, and though standing
guard was not pleasant it was done. However
the night passed without incident, and then
came morning and the excitement of getting
breakfast, over which the Indians made merry.
They did not like the cold and darkness, and
always welcomed the sun, no matter how hot.
"And now," cried Tom, when the meal was
over, "let us begin the work that has brought us
here."
"Yes," agreed Professor Bumper, "I will
consult the map, and start the diggers where I think
the city lies, far below the surface. Now, gentlemen,
if you will give me your attention----"
He was seeking through his outer coat pockets,
after an ineffectual search in the inner one. A
strange look came over his face.
"What's the matter?" asked Tom.
"The map--the map!" gasped the professor.
"The map I was showing you last night! The map
that tells where we are to dig for the idol of gold!
It's gone!"
"The map gone?" gasped Mr. Damon.
"I--I'm afraid so," faltered the professor.
"I put it away carefully, but now----"
He ceased speaking to make a further search
in all his pockets.
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