Oliver did not know what to reply.
“Here, I will hold the lantern for you,” continued Colonel Mendix. “You go over first and I will follow, and we will catch your friend.”
This seemed fair enough, and getting down, Oliver swung himself over the ledge and dropped.
About ten feet below his feet struck some slanting projection; but it was too slippery with water to catch a footing, and he went down fully fifteen feet farther.
“Hello!” he cried. “I—”
“Now you,” cried the colonel to Gus. And before the latter could say a word he found himself pushed to the brink and sent rolling over. He clutched the edge with his hands, but was unable to draw himself up, and went over just as Oliver had done.
“What do you mean?” he demanded. “You pushed me over!”
“It is a trap,” whispered Oliver, helping Gus to his feet. “Are you coming down?” he called to the man above.
“I don’t think I shall,” was the mocking reply. “That is one of the worst pits in the mine, and if I once got in I am afraid I would never get out again.”