So the two men, the fearless youth and the treacherous money king, lay each sheltered by the bowlders while the sun sank in the west and day slipped softly into night. When the shadows had deepened sufficiently, Frank crept away on his stomach toward the valley, taking the utmost pains not to expose himself, and, through his skill in this, returned at last in safety to his friends, who welcomed him joyously.
“Heap well done!” grunted old Joe. “But now Strong Heart him know more than to trust um bad men. No do it some more.”
Dick was able to repress his emotion, although Frank read in the few words his brother said the intense anxiety he had felt.
“What will be their next move?” exclaimed Hodge.
“They will attempt to overpower us by some sudden move to-night,” said Frank. “We must remain on the alert every moment.”
The stars came out bright and clear, as they always do in that Southwestern land, and, if possible, their light seemed more brilliant than usual. The night advanced, and still the enemy before them remained silent. It was Curry who discovered something down in the valley that attracted his attention and interested him. He called the attention of Frank, who saw down there a light waving to and fro and then in circles.
“Whatever does yer make of that, pard Merriwell?” asked Curry.
“It’s a signal,” said Frank—“a signal from Abe and Felicia. They are seeking to attract our attention. I must go down there at once.”
“There’s trouble of some sort down there, Frank,” said Dick, who had reached his brother’s side. “Let’s go quickly.”
Merry found Bart and directed him to take charge of the defense at that point and be constantly on the alert. With Dick close behind him, he hastened down the fissure leading into the valley. In the narrow place through which they descended the starlight was dim and uncertain, yet they hastened with reckless speed. Reaching the valley, they made straight for the cabin, where the signal light was still waving. As they drew near, they saw the grotesque figure of little Abe swinging a lighted torch over his head and then waving it round and round. The flaring torch revealed Felicia, who stood near.