“Does the manuscript give directions for reaching the hidden city?” Ken asked, undaunted.
“In a vague way. My thought is that the Portuguese deliberately gave incorrect information so that others could not find the treasure.”
“Why didn’t they go back themselves?” questioned Jack.
“According to legend, the few men who survived the expedition, did attempt to return many years later, but could not retrace their way. Many men since have tried and failed.”
“I’d like to read every word of the manuscript!” Ken declared.
“If you linger awhile in Cuertos, I gladly will translate it for you,” offered the missionary. “The tale is most absorbing. The Portuguese adventurer relates that the secret entrance to the city was discovered by an Indian. While gathering wood for the camp, he suddenly saw a cleft by means of which the rocks could be scaled.”
“Do you believe that the ancient Inca city exists?” Jack asked.
Father Francisco hesitated and then answered: “There is considerable evidence that this manuscript was based on fact. The city herein described might be such a one as Cuzco, the ancient capital of the Incas. The Portuguese’s account of ruins tallies in all respects with those which have come to light in recent years.”
“Strange that the city never has been spotted from the air,” remarked Ken thoughtfully.
“Planes seldom fly in that area. In any case, the ruins would be well-hidden by centuries of vegetation.”