It turned out just as they had anticipated, for the sloping ledge kept on to the level of the valley bed, although it must have been next to impossible for any one to distinguish its presence from the level ground.
Jack led the way, and they were close to the tent, when the last light vanished in the big cabin near by. Presently, just as Jack had figured with such exactness, a dim figure came slowly around the corner, almost colliding with the crouching pair.
CHAPTER XXIX
All Ready for the Grand Blowout
“Simeon!”
Perk held his breath in awe as his pal whispered that one word.
An answering voice, very, very low, came back, asking a question; and in another second Jack was squeezing the groping hand of the duly thrilled prisoner of the outlaw’s hidden retreat.
It was considered much too risky for them to remain there, and try to engage in explanations; so Jack took the other in tow, and led him over to the foot of the mighty cliff, with Perk trailing in.
So well taken had Jack’s calculations been that he hit the exact spot at which the descending slope of rock ended amidst the green grass. In whispers he explained what must be done in order to gain a secure place where they might converse without incurring any risk.
With Jack leading the way, and Perk acting as a buffer in the rear, to prevent the rather unsteady Simeon, trembling in every limb from extreme excitement, from falling off the narrow and treacherous ledge, they all managed to presently gain the passage leading to the big central cavern.
Here they sat down, and a brisk conversation followed between Jack and Simeon—after Perk had been duly introduced to the captive Service man.