“Then,” said Prince Huaca, “we must abandon the fortress and flee to the outer valley. And those in the city must be warned.”
“But what if the earthquake do not come?” asked Michac. “You will have lost the fortress and your power.”
“The people must be saved,” said Prince Huaca. “Come.”
With a last look at the column of smoke, he started to go below. Frank, however, pulled Jack and Bob aside.
“Better radio the monastery while we have the chance,” said he. “And tell them what’s happened. Then we can dismount the set and take it along for emergencies.”
Mr. Hampton, who overheard, nodded.
“But hurry,” he said.
Hurry the boys did. Brother Gregorio at the monastery was easily reached. The conversation was brief. Then the set was dismantled, and the three boys hurried below with the parts. Throughout the fortress all was bustle and hurry. Men were hastening through the corridors on various missions. They made their way to the prince’s apartment, where they were met by Michac, who told them their friends had gone on to their own room. There they found the others hastily collecting their belongings. Each assumed part of the load, while the balance, including tents, was given bearers sent to their help by the prince.
Then they made their way to the main guard room, from there to the outer courtyard behind its great walls, and thence to the Tunnel Way, opening in the side of the mountain.
“It would be a fine idea,” grumbled Bob, “if after all our adventures we got in the middle of this tunnel and an earthquake came along and shook it down on us.”