The boy was silent for some time, while the Hunter reloaded the carbine and his Express.
"So—-we are still down below."
"But I know the way out, and as soon as it is daylight we'll get back into the valley. Have no fears."
Venning's hand went out to feel for his companion. "I must have given you a lot of trouble. You've got your coat off."
"I didn't want it, and it came in handy as a pillow."
"Put it on," said Venning, "and give me my gun."
Mr. Hume laughed cheerily. "Feeling yourself again—eh? Well, that's good. And now we'll put an end to this nonsense."
"I certainly smell sulphur," said Venning; "and what is that blue streak there?" He took a step towards the smooth cone. "It is sulphur!" he cried. "See, it's burning."
Mr. Hume stepped to his side, and saw the unmistakable blue flame given off by burning sulphur, while a whiff of the fumes made him choke.
"You're right; it's a mass of sulphur. The burning wad front the cartridge must have set it alight." He sliced off the burning patch with his knife. "We don't want to be fumigated, or to die of suffocation. Now, if you feel strong enough, we'll explore the cave."