“One must be very brave or very foolhardy to venture far into the wilds. A mule-back trip across Peru consumes weeks.”
Ken and Jack nodded, remaining silent.
“Many of our mountain roads are mere tracks,” Father Francisco continued. “Only caves or stone huts offer shelter. To venture far one must have a trusted arriero or muleteer to act as guide. A dependable man is not easy to find.”
To Jack and Ken it was clear that the missionary deliberately was trying to discourage them. They listened attentively as he mentioned the many dangers that might beset a traveler. When he had finished, Jack said quietly:
“We realize, Father, that our mission won’t be easy. All the same, a few hardships won’t bother us. You knew Burton Monahan?”
“Very well. Ah, he was a reckless one! But with the courage of a lion! From the first, the old tale of treasure fascinated him. Yet in fairness, I must say it was not lust for Inca gold that spurred him on, as it does so many adventurers who come to this country. No, it was the lure of the unknown that drew him irresistibly to his fate.”
“His fate?” Ken repeated, startled. “Then you believe that Burton Monahan is dead?”
Father Francisco shrugged his thin shoulder. “Quien sabe?” he murmured in Spanish. “Who knows? There is one who might provide the answer, if he would. I fear however, that the truth will never pass his lips. Not if it profits him to remain silent.”
“Who is this man?” questioned Jack.
The missionary did not answer. The Explorers were certain he heard and that deliberately he withheld his reply.