Bunk had also made good use of his eyes. He noticed the cabin of guide Akers, the beautiful little lake beyond, the tent on the shore and the forms near it, to whom he waved his usual salutation, and closely studied the surroundings when they sank to the earth again.
As soon as the two felt the earth under their feet, they began a search which was quickly ended by the discovery of the cavern which has also been described.
“This will do,” was the comment of the Professor after scanning it; “you couldn’t ask for anything better.”
Bunk surveyed the opening with mingled feelings. It certainly offered secure shelter against a storm, which was about all that could be said of it. Wishing to please his master he remarked:
“I allers sleeps wid my winder open at home and it’ll be de same here and dis soots me. I wouldn’t mind if I had some carpets or rugs and a peanner, but I can git along very well as it am.”
“Carry in the basket,” commanded the master, leading the way with the blanket over his arm. He flung it down at the rear of the cavern and Bunk set the receptacle beside it. Then the two walked outside, where they stood beside the aeroplane.
“Before I go,” said the Professor in his most awesome tones, “I have a few things to say to you which you must not forget on your peril.”
“Yas, sir.”
“This is to be your home till I call to take you to Africa.”
“Yas, sir.”