Heartily glad to leave the place, Van and his companions followed Doc Clancy and his pal, who were making for the outlet of the cavern as fast as they could go.
Nothing interfered with them, and fifteen minutes later they were in the open air once more.
The moon had risen, and by aid of its light they beheld not only the horses they had left hobbled in the vicinity, but the two Jack and Joe had been thrown from, as well.
The animals were quite tame now, and seemed glad to meet their masters.
All hands deemed it advisable to mount, and leave the dangerous valley at once.
Accordingly, they did so, and half an hour later they were ascending a steep hill at its other side.
Once at the top of the hill, the country was level, and covered with vegetation.
The howling of wild beasts could be heard on all sides of them, and so fierce were the noises that it became necessary for the party to come to a halt and start a fire before they had traveled five miles.
Selecting a good spot, the required dry wood was collected, and a rousing fire started.
The horses were kept together in a bunch near this, and then, dividing themselves into watches they prepared to pass the remainder of the night.