On account of their industry the time slipped by rapidly. As a matter of fact their wicked task occupied them for nearly four hours. However, no sound of what went on underground reached the ears of those who slept in the shacks.
"We're ready for the wiring," announced Josh at last.
"I'll do that myself," said Gage. "I want it well done. Each of you hold a lantern here."
By the light thus provided Dolph attached the light wires so that the electric spark would be communicated to each stick in this "mine." This was done by looping a circuit wire around each separate stick, and connecting the wire with each detonating cap. The dynamite, frozen on the snow crust, had thawed again at this subterranean level.
"Now, for the last tamping," ordered Gage.
While the others worked, Dolph carefully superintended their operations.
At last the tamping was done, and the connecting wires were carried back to the bottom of the shaft.
Here the second mine was connected in the same manner, and the wires joined so that the circuit should be complete.
"One spark from the magneto, now," chuckled Dolph, "and both blasts will go on at once. Whew! This old ridge will rock for a few seconds!"
For a few moments he stood surveying his work with huge satisfaction.