From one cavern they passed to another, some of which were artfully ventilated and lighted by holes in the rocks over head.
At last they reached a very large apartment, which had been formed ages ago by the action of the sea, and cut just as cleverly as if done with a chisel.
Round a long table sat smoking and drinking twenty or more rough, hardy-looking fellows, who were card-playing, throwing dice, sleeping, snoring, and the like.
All of them hastily rose as the chief entered, and Tim was introduced to the company in words which conveyed the idea that the stranger would become a valuable member of the band.
Smoking and drinking continued, and soon Master Tim found himself the centre of attraction, and as he was, of course, expected to be a very brave fellow, he favoured the company with a long string of lies, in which he narrated his several encounters with the Skeleton Crew, and against whom he had displayed prodigies of valour.
The chief, however, left the company, and wended his way through the dark caverns towards his own particular abode.
He found standing at his door a special messenger.
“That you, Dolphin?” said the chief. “So soon returned?”
“Yes, worthy Sea-hawk,” was the reply. “And I bring most important news.”
“From whom?”