“Well, have it any way you like, Perk; but I’m meaning to settle down for a nice nap. Just call out if you want a light any old time, and I’ll accommodate you before you can say Jack Robinson. So-long, and here’s hoping we’ll be able to get a move on before another night sets in.”
“I sure echoes that wish, boy,” muttered Perk, seriously; for he realized that they had undertaken one of the most troublesome tasks that could be placed to their credit; and would have need of all the good luck and breaks possible in order to come through.
Perk having set himself to what he considered a duty, would never let any trivial things deter him; and so he must have sat up with that declining fire until the very last feeble flicker expired; then rolling himself up in his blanket he sought relief in slumber.
Time went on, the night passed away, and there was not a solitary alarm to give Perk a thrill. Both of them were very tired, and must have slept soundly, for the first thing Perk knew Jack turned the dazzling light of his little torch full on his face, arousing him, and then remarked quietly:
“Time we were stirring, partner—I figure the dawn has got around, when we can start doing things.”
CHAPTER XXVI
A Back Door to the Valley
A hasty breakfast was eaten, washed down with a few swigs of cold liquid refreshment, which the ever obliging Perk had fetched up in a bottle taken from the ship for the purpose, and filled with coffee from their gallon Thermos jug.
Thus the adventurous pair felt well braced for whatever duties the new day had in store for them.
“We’ll divide our force for the morning,” suggested Jack, knowing only too well his chum would take his words in the way of a command, for he occupied the position of leader, and Perk was only too willing to accede to each and every suggestion his mate advanced.
“Jest so, partner,” Perk instantly commented; “an’ what air yeou agoin’ to pass on to me, I wanter know?”