their efforts, halting at nothing, in fact.

"We should have brought axes, Jack," muttered Percival in disgust, as both
boys paused at length, tired and hot in a little glade where the way was
clearer than before, and yet having no assurance that they were anywhere
near the place they sought.

"Yes, but that is just like a couple of boys who are bound to do a thing
and don't make all their calculations ahead. Our hind thought is better
than our forethought, Dick."

"Yes, but we could not think of everything. I think we have done pretty
well, considering."

"Yes, I suppose so, but it rather takes the conceit out of a fellow to
meet with so many obstacles. Why, I always thought I was good in making my
way through tangled woods, but I begin to think that I am not."

"There is one thing you have forgotten, Jack. We are in the tropics, the
woods here are regular jungles and the temperature is something
considerably above what you have been used to. You must not scold yourself
too much, Jack. I think we have done very well--'sh, what's that!" in a
hoarse whisper, and looking around him with alarm.

"Some one coming, Dick. Hide, quick!"

CHAPTER XVIII

IN THE LAIR OF THE FOX

The boys quickly secreted themselves in the high grass, and in a few
moments several men came into the glade, evidently in great excitement.

"We've got to get him quick," said one. "Is this the right way, do you
think? We can't waste no time waiting around here with that revenue cutter
hanging around."

"Him and Davis went over to this side 'cause he wanted to show Davis that
there was a vessel in the bay, and now this here other one is hanging
about, and she may come to our side and find us," said another. "This here
is the way, I think, but I ain't sure."

"Well, come on and find him," growled a third man. "As you say, we'd
better not waste no time with a revenue cutter hanging about and looking
for us. Come on!"

The men hurried on, and when there was no longer any sign of them Jack
arose and said:

"They have seen a vessel outside, probably from one of the hills, and have
taken the alarm. It is likely that this is the vessel Mr. Smith has sent
to get us out. I hardly believe she is a revenue cutter, although these
men would hardly be deceived on that point."

"They might," said Percival. "They would take alarm at anything. I think
myself that it is likely to be the vessel sent to get us out. She should
be here by this time,