“Are ye the fearsome candidates?” asked the figure, in a deep voice.
“Candidates, but not fearsome,” answered Jerry.
“Silence!” came the sharp order. “Answer yea and nay, but no more.”
“Aye,” responded Jerry.
“Then follow me and we shall see if ye are able to stand the test of fire, of water, and of death. If so be ye may prove worthy members of our ancient and secret order. If not ye shall be cast into outer darkness. Advance!”
The skeleton figure turned and walked into the black void. Ned, Bob and Jerry followed, being able to see only a little way into the room by the light in the one where they had donned the bath robes. But, even as they turned, this light went out, and they were left in total darkness, with only the phosphorus glow to guide them.
“Follow me!” came in solemn tones from the skeleton one.
The three walked onward, but there were obstructions in the way, and though the glowing figure in front avoided them, our heroes were not so fortunate. In turn Jerry, Ned and Bob stumbled over something and went down heavily.
“Hang it all!” muttered Ned, rubbing his shins.