“I see above the tree tops what looks like a pyramid-shaped heap of stones, the stones of which Sir Philip spoke, perhaps.�
“Yes,� I replied excitedly, “and at the top, at the apex, what?�
“There is a darker opening in the wall between two others.�
“The treasure will be there,� said I confidently.
“Let us go to it,� she shuddered, looking about her. “I don’t wonder that Sir Philip came back a madman if he lived for long in the presence of this.�
“We have nothing more to do here,� I answered, as I led the way to the edge of the low altar.
I leaped down and then turned to help her. She was very white and I thought she was going to faint. I don’t blame her, the surroundings were so terrible. I acted promptly, reaching up and taking her in my arms and carrying her as if she had been a baby; and indeed she was no great burden for me. Her head dropped to my shoulder. I did not know whether she had fainted or not. Her eyes were closed. I ran swiftly across the enclosure, descended the steps and without hesitation turned to the edge of the cliff. I stopped there, cursing myself for not having brought any water, but as I stopped she opened her eyes.
“You are safe,� said I gently, setting her on her feet again, “the horrors are all behind us. See, there is before you naught but the beautiful greenery of the island, and—�
An expression of gratitude came across her face.
“Let us go down,� she replied. “We must never come near here again.�