CHAPTER XXIV
The Discovery
“Do you think we’ll find it, Frank?” asked Joe Hardy.
“I shouldn’t be surprised. If there is anything hidden in that chimney, the banging-up it got just now should reveal it.”
They peered into the fireplace. It was choked with rubbish.
“Better clear some of this away.”
They began moving away the stones and rocks that blocked the entrance. Chet and Biff, after watching the Hardy boys for a few moments from the kitchen, came over to help. They forgot their fears in the eagerness of the search.
Once, while moving away a large stone, Frank dislodged some others that came down with a rush. He jumped back just in time.
“This business isn’t safe yet,” muttered Chet dubiously.
However, the boys went on with the work, and soon cleared out the fireplace, with no further mishap. Frank entered the opening and peered up.
“Clear daylight ahead!” he called.