en bands of it as a
protection to his legs, probably because of the thorns."

"If they come into the towns I should think some venturesome fellow
would follow, to learn the secret of the city in the swamp," Jake
suggested, and it could plainly be seen that he was growing decidedly
interested.

"That has often been tried; but, so far as I can learn, no one ever
succeeded. Twice I tracked three villainous looking old fellows to the
very edge of the marsh, and both times they disappeared so silently and
completely as to make it seem as if the earth had opened and swallowed
them. Then, learning of the many who had failed in the same attempt, I
formed a plan which must give me the victory, although it has required
much time."

"What is it?" Jake asked breathlessly.

"I resolved to learn the language, and to that end came here with an
Indian who knows the habits and customs of these people, he having dealt
with them for many years, and, what is more, has been within sight of
the famous city. From him I have gained all the information necessary to
enable me to penetrate the swamp, and now flatter myself that I can
speak the dialect of the Chan Santa Cruz tribe as perfectly as a
native."

"Have you remained here two years doing nothing else but studying how to
reach the village?" Neal asked.

"Very little beside that. We built the hut, planted these trees for a
lounging place, and now raise chickens and fruit enough to provide us
with food."

"Where is the man you speak of?"

"He went to Merida three days ago; but will return by the day after
to-morrow if no accident has befallen him."

"When are you going to make the attempt to get through the swamp?"

"Very soon if you accept my proposition."

"What have we to do with it?" Jake asked in surprise.

"I will explain. Old Poyor and myself are not strong enough numerically
to make the attempt alone, for in case the secret of our identity should
be discovered, nothing could save our lives. With you three as an
addition to the party, and two armed with good weapons, I would not be
afraid to travel straight through the city. As a matter of fact the only
real danger is in approaching the place; but I have studied over that
portion of the business so long that I do not fear a failure if you can
be prevailed upon to join us."

"That is out of the question," Neal replied decidedly, speaking quickly,
as if afraid Jake might agree to the scheme. "You know we must get back