"That's what I thought you'd say!" exclaimed Mr. Baxter. "I didn't think you'd give in, Fred. Now let them do their worst! We'll show them how brave boys and a strong man can go without eating. I don't believe he'll dare let us die. And Holfax may come at any time now. Yes, boys, we'll defy that scoundrel!"
At that moment several Indians appeared at the flap of the tent.
"Come," said one who spoke a little English. "You go."
"I wonder what's up now?" said Fred. "Has he found the gold?"
There was no choice but to obey, and the captives went outside. It was snowing furiously.
CHAPTER XXIV
DOUBLE HARDSHIP
Callack stood in front of the tent from which the captives were led by the Indians. He was so bundled up in furs that he was scarcely recognizable, and, as Mr. Baxter walked toward him, the man said:
"I'm going to give you one more chance to tell where the gold is. Will you?"