apprehended
from them. The youth was so alive to the situation that he heard a cough
from one of the ponies lying on the ground near the further side of the
plateau, and beyond sight. Twice the watcher fancied he detected a
shadowy figure stealing here and there in the gloom, and he grasped his
rifle, ready for instant use; but it must have been a mistake on his
part, for nothing materialized, and, curious as it may seem, he finally
sank into a fitful slumber, which lasted a long time without
interruption.

CHAPTER XV.

TOZER.

Meanwhile Hank Hazletine was busy. He had formed several theories to
account for the disappearance of the youth, of whom he had grown
extremely fond, brief as was their acquaintance, but the data upon which
he based these theories were so vague and meagre that he could do
nothing until more definite knowledge was obtained.

When first talking with Jack Dudley, the hunter expected to retain his
place near the cavern until morning, for it would seem that there was
little hope of doing anything until the sun shone, but reflection
convinced him that there was a possibility of accomplishing something
during the long interval that must intervene. Still it is not probable
he would have made the attempt had not something invited it.

Standing in the gloom on the outside of the cavern, he saw a point of
light against the side of the nearest mountain peak, less than half a
mile distant. It could not be a star, for his familiarity with the
country told him the background must prevent an orb showing at that
height above the horizon. It came from a fire burning at the place, and
that fire had been kindled by Indians.

Hank's decision was to visit the camp, in the hope of picking up some
information about the missing boy. It has been shown that he was so
convinced that no danger threatened Jack Dudley that he did not hesitate
to leave him alone, believing him asleep. As a precaution, however, he
flung additional fuel on the fire, with a view of keeping away any wild
animals that might be in the vicinity. Had Jack answered to his name
when called by the guide he would have been invited to accompany him for
a portion at least of the way on the reconnaissance, as it might be
termed--a most welcome relief. Thus, trifling as was the deception, it
operated unfavorably for our young friend.

The progress of the veteran through and over the rough country was a
very different proceeding from that of th