he passage, and dragged through it to the
end; after that, it would be easy enough. Six men could carry him,
in a blanket, until far enough away for them to chop poles, without
the sound of the axes being heard by the Burmese.

From the time they began their work, every pains had been taken to
deaden sounds. The blanket hung across the passage had acted as a
muffler, to some extent; but a piece of cloth had always been tied
over the hammer heads of the axes, to prevent the sharp clinking
sounds of the blows on the chisels, or stone, being heard.

As soon as it was dark enough for them to pass along the ledge,
Meinik went with Stanley to examine the ground. Fortunately, the
portion of stone that remained above the level, and prevented the
rock from being rolled back, was but small; and they were able to
break it up in half an hour, with the axes. Then, making their way
along without difficulty for another four feet, they found
themselves standing upright in the depression in the centre of the
ruin. Mounting six more steps, they were among the bushes that
covered the site of the temple.

They now carefully cleared away every fragment of stone from the
floor of the passage and, returning, Stanley gave orders for the
start to be made. Two or three shots were fired, from the lower
entrance, to show the enemy that they were there and on the watch;
and then all went up to Harry's room. He had been dressed, for the
first time, and was ready for the start. Two of the strongest of
the Burmans went on first.

"Now, Harry, you are to put your hands on my shoulders. Meinik will
follow close behind you, and will keep his arms round you, in case
you need help. Of course, we shall go along very slowly."

"I don't think that all these precautions are necessary," Harry
said. "I am sure that I can walk that distance, easily enough. Why,
you say the stair is only about forty feet."

"I dare say you could, Harry; but we don't want to run any risks.
Your head is not very strong, at present; and you might turn giddy,
or you might stumble. So, at present, you will have just to do as
you are told.

"Let us start."

Harry did not find it as easy as he had expected, getting out
through the lower opening; and he was by no means sorry to have the
support of Stanley and Meinik, as he proceeded along the ledge.
They moved very carefully, and slowly; and all were greatly
relieved when he sat down, on a blanket laid on the steps.

"Now lie