gs returned to learn the result of the
interview, Jake explained upon what grounds the decision had been
arrived at, and he expressed himself as perfectly satisfied with the
arrangement.

"If we can't get into the city during the coming week there is no use
trying," he said, "and I will undertake to see you on board the next
steamer which sails. Now it only remains to decide upon the details, and
at sunrise to-morrow we will begin what I have been preparing for,
during the past two years."

Since the details consisted only in agreeing upon what amount of luggage
should be taken with them, but little time was spent in discussion, and
as the boys retired on this night it was with the knowledge that when
the sun rose again they would start for the Silver City which every
traveler in Yucatan admitted had an existence.

CHAPTER XI.

THE JOURNEY.

The boys and Jake had no preparations to make for the journey. The goods
they had brought from the coast was their only property, and could
readily be carried as during the tramp to this point.

On the contrary, Cummings found many things which it was necessary
should be done before departure. Whether successful in the attempt to
reach the marvelous city or not, he could hardly hope to return to the
hut where all his preparations had been made, and there was much to be
done.

After ascertaining that his guests were willing to accompany him he made
arrangements for their comfort during the night, and then, excusing
himself on the plea of work, was seen no more until the time for
departure had come.

Of the three castaways Neal was the only one who had any misgivings
regarding the proposed detour. It seemed to him as if he was in some way
abandoning his father by embarking in this enterprise, although how
anything more could be done to aid those who had taken refuge in the
boats was beyond his comprehension.

This much was clear in his mind, however: He had agreed to aid in the
attempt, and when Cummings awakened the little party he arose quickly,
firmly resolved to do everything in his power to reach the city which,
as yet, he was not thoroughly convinced existed.

It was still dark when the final preparations for the journey were
begun, and Cummings' impatience was so great that the sun had but just
shown himself above the horizon when the morning meal had been eaten,
and their host was urging them to make haste.

"We must be at the rendezvous not later than t