It was hardly likely that a large body of soldiers would be set to search long for two runaways; and, of course, I was well aware that some of these limestone caves extended for miles into the very heart of the mountains.
Had this immense rock-chamber a second outlet?
I asked myself this question as we rushed over the damp, uneven floor, and a sharp exclamation of joy from Mecsey answered it.
Just as the Russians entered, we made our exit by way of a narrow passage, through which a stream ran.
We dashed on, followed by, perhaps, twenty of the enemy, who carried torches; the others were searching the cavern.
Gradually the passage became wider, then it contracted once more, and finally opened into a second chamber, from which two passages branched.
We had little time for choice. The Russians, yelling and waving their torches, were not far in our rear. Whatever we did must be done at once.
Mecsey was for turning to the right; but I, pointing to the stream, said, "Where that goes we can go," which was true, but not in the sense I meant.
Mecsey nodded. It was for me to give orders, for him to obey.
We ran on, with the roar of the water in our ears, the yell of the enemy behind us, but in front a chance of safety.