Jack, who stood near, laid a consoling hand upon Tom's shoulder. His emotion was equal to that of his comrade. All were awed.
It was Carlos who brought them to attention again.
"Look there," he cried. "Look at that chest."
The boys stared in spellbound amazement at the curious sight.
Exactly in the center of the noose of rope lying now half buried in the boiling sands rose the end of a box or chest. It plainly showed evidence of age. A gasp of astonishment went around.
"Pull in on the line," urged Carlos. "There's your treasure."
Like one in a trance, Tom obediently pulled on the line. The noose tightened about the chest. Tom dragged with all his might but was unable to move the object. He glanced at the others. They seemed unable to move, but gazed with staring eyes at the sight.
"Tail on here, my hearties," cried Tom. "Give us a hand."
Almost instantly the others awoke to the situation and now every hand was grasping the line and all were pulling manfully.
Inch by inch they gained. The chest was dragged slowly through the boiling sands to the pitside, where it was necessary to raise it to firmer ground. The boys dared not go close to the edge for fear of starting the sand caving. Their backs were straining under the burden. Their hands were burning from their grasp on the line.