becoming shallower, less
steep, it merged into the grassy valley. But there was no sign. Then
sadly they commenced their upward search, until they were close to the
high cliff whence the stream gushed out. Here they found that the ravine
was wider, and at the bottom of it a patch of sand and boulders showed
that there was foothold beside the roaring torrent.

"I will climb down and see if there is aught," said Roy; "it is easier
here--if he had fallen here, he might--" the tears in his voice
prevented more, as he tucked up his garments preparatory to the
difficult descent.

But the shepherds raised an urgent outcry. There was a demon in the
cavern, they said, whence the water came. There was no use angering it,
no use in losing another life.

Roy struggled madly in their detaining hands, but Old Faithful and
Foster-father looked at each other. Whether there was a demon or not it
was a risk to another life and that should not be a young one.

"No, boy!" said the old warrior stoutly. "This is my task, not thine. I
am good swordsman to begin with, and demons--if there be any--like not a
clean sword thrust. Also I have been pilgrim to Holy Mecca and
demons--if there be any--like not pilgrims' flesh."

So, muttering prayers and holding his drawn sword in his teeth, since
both hands were needed for the parlous descent, he commenced his task
while the others watched him eagerly.

About half way down he paused, looked up and called back; but they could
not hear what he said.

"Take thy sword out of thy mouth, man," shrieked Head-nurse almost
beside herself with grief and rage; "it isn't manners to speak with the
mouth full."

True enough, but Old Faithful had some difficulty in obeying orders.
However, he managed to steady himself for a moment on his two feet; so
sword in hand he bawled back.

"'Tis true! There _is_ a demon. It growls. I hear it plainly. Farewell!
I go on, secure in my sword and Holy----"

Here a foot slipped and he went sliding, slithering, slipping down to
the bottom where, happily only bruised, he sat half-stunned staring in
front of him.

And then there echoed up to the listeners the most terrible barking, and
yelping, and growling, and spitting, that ever was heard!

"The demon! The demon!" yelled the shepherds in terror, and ran for
their lives.

But Roy, ear over the cliff, listened for a second, and the next had
followed Old Faithful. Foster-father was not long behind him, and Meroo
w