Both boys insisted on accompanying Ned, but it was finally decided that it would be better policy to leave Frank at the cottage.
“You’ll have to make haste,” Frank said, regretfully, “for the sounds he is making are becoming fainter. What are you going to do with that fuse?” he added, as Ned drew on the line and hauled about half a foot of gas pipe from under the house.
“It will do no harm to take it with me,” Ned replied. “It is not very heavy to carry, and it may be of use.”
“I hope you’ll blow that chap up with it,” exclaimed Jimmie.
“Be careful that you don’t blow yourself up with it,” warned Frank.
“There are no cigarette smokers in the party, and so there is no danger,” was the reply.
“I’ll be here listening when the explosion comes,” grinned Frank.
The sounds out in the jungle were now growing fainter. The man was either finding the way easier or he was getting some distance away.
“Come on,” Jimmie urged. “He’ll get away from us.”
“If you make as much noise as he does,” Frank said, “he’ll stop and shoot you before you get anywhere near him.”