"I wonder if it is a brigand, after all," said Bob.
"I don't know. I still think it may be a madman."
"I don't like those glaring eyes."
"If I only had a fair chance, and could see," said Frank, fiercely,
"I'd soon find out what is behind those glaring eyes."
Louder grew the din while they were speaking—the rattle, the bang, the smash, the general confusion of deafening sounds.
"I should like to know," said Frank, coolly, "how much longer this sort of thing is going to last."
For some time longer the boys kept the door shut, and the noise at length ceased as suddenly as it had begun. It had now grown much lighter, for in these southern countries twilight, whether in the morning or the evening, is but of short duration, and light advances or retires with a rapidity which is startling to the natives of more northern latitudes.
This increase of light gave fresh courage to Frank, who, even in the dark, and in the face of the mystery, had behaved very well; and he began to arrange a plan of action. His arrangements were soon completed. He simply drew a jackknife from his pocket, and opened it.
"Now, Bob," said he, "you follow me."
"All right," said Bob, cheerily.