He broke off abruptly.
What would happen then, he could not tell, but he felt assured that important events were about to take place, which would influence his future career.
Early in the morning he descended from his bedroom. No one was about. The major and Smithers had kept the gaming room open till four o'clock, and then went to bed.
Passing through the city he walked over the prairie until he came within sight of the Dead Snake Canyon.
Scarcely had he entered the valley than he was surprised to hear the voice of Capt. Jordan.
"Welcome, my lad," he cried. "Your mother is waiting to see you. Follow me."
A winding path conducted them to the entrance to the cavern in which the robber lived.
In a rude vault, illuminated by the rays of the sun, Tommy saw Mrs. Smithers seated on a roughly made chair, with Alice by her side.
She rose hastily, and embraced him with every demonstration of fondness.
"My dear, dear child, I am so glad to see you once more," she cried. "How much you must have gone through since we last met."