of
an entirely different pattern was found within the ribbed cavity of one
of them.

Still farther back, new articles appeared. Articles of furniture, many
of them coated with the fallen carbonates; and here were the first
articles of clothing, some of which were so decomposed as to crumble at
the touch. Others were still firm. Some of the articles, like a mantle,
had threads intact running in one direction, and the other cross thread
all converted into dust, which disappeared when the garment was held up.

On some of the garments were metal trimmings. "They look like silver,"
said George, excitedly; "and what is this? It seems to be silver," as he
brushed a bracelet-like piece of ornamentation with the sleeve of his
coat. As they advanced new articles came in sight; a bench; a veritable
chair, or couch, the covering of which was there merely to give it form,
but the substance had gone. Only the wood remained and that largely
decayed.

And now on every side, at the rear and along the walls of the recess,
were evidences of human habitation. Cutlasses, knives, and at one side,
what appeared to be the kitchen, were numerous pots and kettles of
various sizes and descriptions, nearly all of them of copper.

"How could they possibly cook in here without being smothered to death?"
asked Harry.

"The cavern seems to be large enough to take care of all the smoke," was
the Professor's reply.

"Well, I don't understand why they should have taken the trouble to come
in such a long distance, when they would be just as safe nearer the
mouth?"

"Before we leave this place we may be able to answer your two questions
in a way that will surprise, if not startle, you," was the Professor's
answer.

This vague reply did not detract any from the interest which the boys
took in the search.

CHAPTER VII

THE TREASURES OF THE CAVE

While Harry was in the act of drawing back one of the couches, an object
behind it seemed to fall apart with a jingling sound.

"What was that?" exclaimed George.

"I think we have found something here that will make us do some
thinking," answered Harry, as he bent down to take up some of the
detached pieces which came from what now appeared to be a large chest.
He picked up one of the round pieces. "Gold, gold; look at it!"

"I suspected something of the kind when I saw the skeletons. Carefully,
boys; let us remove this piece of furniture. Undoubtedly, we are in
pirates' lair, and here i