"My mother!"
Jack showed almost as much emotion as his young companion, as he stepped quickly beside him, saying:
"Your mother's photograph in this place? How can that be?"
"I do not know, Jack. But it is surely hers. See! It was taken in New York."
"Doubtless Señor Marlin can throw some light upon the matter," declared Jack. "You picked it up almost under where he had been hanging. The photograph fell from one of your pockets, Señor Manuel?" asked Jack, addressing the Venezuelan.
The latter had retreated a few paces, and he showed considerable agitation, while he shook his head, replying in a low tone:
"If it was in my pocket, I did not know it, señors. Some one else must have dropped it here. It would not be strange, as there are many scouts in the forests at this time."
Both Jack and Ronie felt sure that the man was trying to deceive them, but deemed it wise not to let him know it.
"I mistrust the fellow," whispered Jack, aside. "We must keep a close watch upon him. I do not think he understands English, so he does not know what relation the portrait may bear to you. Let's feign indifference in the matter, and keep with him."
So Ronie placed the photograph in one of his pockets without further remarks, though he found it difficult to conceal his emotions. While he was doing this Jack signified to Manuel Marlin that they were anxious to go to his home, or at least to be shown the way out of the forest. Then, with rapid steps, the Venezuelan led the way out of the jungle, not once looking back in his hasty advance. This gave our friends opportunity to exchange thoughts, though they were careful not to say enough to arouse the suspicions of their guide.