It proved to be the custom house, an ancient building looking for all the world like a fort. There was a heavy wall, with an arched gateway and a great staircase leading to the rooms in the upper part of the building. The walls were of huge stones and were five to six feet in thickness.
“Whoever built this, built it to last,” said Sam. “I don’t think anything less than an earthquake could bring it down.”
“I suppose they have used it for a fort for years,” said Darry, and he hit the truth exactly. “When there is a rebellion in a country the custom house is always more or less of a point of interest.”
They were soon joined by Professor Strong, who conducted them to a modest looking hotel not many squares away.
“We will remain here over night and take the train for Caracas in the morning,” said the professor. “I want you to see what a triumph of engineering skill this road is, and you can’t see that in the darkness.”
“Phew! what a smell!” came from Hockley, as he turned up his nose. “La Guayra isn’t very clean.”
“You are right, Hockley, although the town is much better than it used to be. When I was here years ago the streets were literally covered with filth and there was a good deal of sickness. You see, it is really nothing but a seaport. Only those who have to work here will stay.”
Their rooms were not of the best, and during the night Frank got up several times, declaring that his bed was inhabited. All were outside by dawn and saw the sun rise over the rolling sea. Then a breakfast of rolls, coffee and fish was had and they proceeded to the railroad station—to take the most exciting railroad ride that they had ever experienced.
CHAPTER VIII
ON A CLIFF AND UNDER
“Hurrah for a railroad ride over the mountains!” cried Darry, as they proceeded to the station. “Wonder how long it will be?”