ratively few,
and the migratory sort fewer still.

"Well, we're on our way once more," remarked Tom as again they were in
the canoes being paddled up the river. "How much longer does your
water trip take, Professor?"

"I hardly know," and Professor Bumper looked to Jacinto to answer.

"We go two more days in the canoes," the guide answered, "and then we
shall find the mules waiting for us at a place called Hidjio. From
then on we travel by land until--well until you get to the place where
you are going.

"I suppose you know where it is?" he added, nodding toward the
professor. "I am leaving that part to you."

"Oh, I have a map, showing where I want to begin some excavations," was
the answer. "We must first go to Copan and see what arrangements we
can make for laborers. After that--well, we shall trust to luck for
what we shall find."

"There are said to be many curious things," went on Jacinto, speaking
as though he had no interest. "You have mentioned buried cities. Have
you thought what may be in them--great heathen temples, idols, perhaps?"

For a moment none of the professor's companions spoke. It was as
though Jacinto had tried to get some information. Finally the
scientist said:

"Oh, yes, we may find an idol. I understand the ancient people, who
were here long before the Spaniards came, worshiped idols. But we
shall take whatever antiquities we find."

"Huh!" grunted Jacinto, and then he called to the paddlers to increase
their strokes.

The journey up the river was not very eventful. Many alligators were
seen, and Tom and Ned shot several with the electric rifle. Toward the
close of the third day's travel there was a cry from one of the rear
boats, and an alarm of a man having fallen overboard was given.

Tom turned in time to see the poor fellow's struggles, and at the same
time there was a swirl in the water and a black object shot forward.

"An alligator is after him!" yelled Ned.

"I see," observed Tom calmly. "Hand me the rifle, Ned."

Tom took quick aim and pulled the trigger. The explosive electric
bullet went true to its mark, and the great animal turned over in a
death struggle. But the river was filled with them, and no sooner had
the one nearest the unfortunate Indian been disposed of than another
made a dash for the man.

There was a wild scream of agony and then a dark arm shot up above the
red foam. The waters seethed and bubbled as the alligators fought
under