n the feeling of elation so as not to let
the chief see that the captives were full of hope, for he came day by
day to visit them and complain about the length of time his messengers
were gone.

But the secret was well kept, and those who shared it, in obedience to
Yussuf's suggestion, began to store away portions of their provisions so
as to be prepared at any moment for a journey which might take them for
many days through the mountains away from village or beaten track.

"I shall leave this place with regret," the professor said with a sigh;
"but I must say I do not relish paying for my stay with every shilling I
have scraped together during my life."

"No. Let's get away, Preston," said Mr Burne. "Oh, if I could only
commence an action against these scoundrels for our imprisonment! I'd
make them smart."

They were sitting together among the ruins, and their thoughts naturally
reverted to Yussuf and his reticent ways, for two days had passed since
he had made any communication, and he had seemed to be more retiring
than ever.

The sun was shining brightly, and warmed the stones where they sat, but
the air seemed to be piercingly cold, and Mr Burne shivered more than
once, and got up to walk about.

"I shall not be sorry to get down out of the mountains," he said. "What
do you say, Lawrence?"

"Oh! I've liked the stay up here very well, it has all been so new and
different; and besides, I have been so well, and I feel so strong."

"Yes, you are better, my boy," said Mr Burne, nodding his head
approvingly.

"I used to feel tired directly I moved," continued Lawrence, "but now I
scarcely ever feel tired till quite night. Yussuf says it is the
mountain air."

"Yes," said the professor dryly, "it is the mountain air. Where is
Yussuf?"

"Here, excellency," said their guide; and they all started with
surprise, he had approached so quietly. "I was coming to tell you that
I have been up to the top of the old temple, and have at length traced
the ancient path. I have only seen parts of it here and there, but I
can make out the direction it takes, and it is right opposite to that by
which we came."

"But where does it lead?" said the professor.

"Away west, effendi--where, I cannot say; but let us get out of this
place and I will lead you in safety somewhere."

"But the old path--is it very dangerous?" said Mr Burne.

"I went out upon it last night in the darkness, and followed it for a
couple of m