This was done twice over, the party passing each time where their men were blocking the ends of the shelf which had been selected for one of the posts.
“It’s strange,” said Captain Roby at last. “I can see no loose stone.”
“No,” said Captain Edwards. “It was just as if a good-sized block had slipped down from above. Let’s have another look.”
This was done, with no better result, and once more the party stood fast in the dim light, gazing in a puzzled way.
“Can any one suggest anything?” said Captain Roby.
There was silence for a few moments, and then Lennox caught hold of Dickenson’s arm and gave it a meaning pressure as he turned to the two captains, who were close together.
“I have an idea,” he whispered. “Give the orders loudly for the men to march off. Take them round to the south, and wait.”
“What for?” said Captain Roby snappishly.
“I should like Dickenson and me to be left behind. I’ll fire if there is anything.”
“Oh, rubbish!” said Captain Roby contemptuously.