They made their way back to camp, after having cut off the great skin. It was at once placed in preservative.
“One more prize specimen to add to our collection,” said Mr. Wallace. “I’m betting that Bob and Joe will prove a valuable asset to the expedition during the next few weeks. They’re both good shots, and they have plenty of courage.”
Indeed the youths tried to justify themselves of this tribute, and were successful in doing so. During the eventful days that followed they collected many specimens for the scientists, including about every form of life they could see in this wild region. Often they made long excursions into the adjoining mountains in search of new wild creatures, and usually found them. Taking moving pictures also occupied their time.
But although the naturalist party was meeting with success in its search for fauna, the men did not wish to remain here too long, for other duties at home prevented it. Especially was Mr. Wallace anxious to get back to Chicago.
It was arranged one day that he and Bob and Joe go with Karl Sutman in the monoplane back to the United States, preceding Mr. Holton and Mr. Lewis, who would arrive later by steamship. The youths’ fathers took it on themselves to attend to getting the specimens on muleback to the coast, where they would be loaded on the vessel.
The four leavetakers were given an affectionate farewell by Mr. Holton and Mr. Lewis, who expressed hope that their sons and friends would arrive in the United States without mishap.
On the way to the coast the air travelers stopped to see Dr. Rust and others of the archæologist party. Bob informed them of the Inca secrets he and his friend had found, and gave them the map he had made of the region. The scientists’ delight far exceeded the boys’ expectations. They literally mauled the youths in their intense enthusiasm.
When the chums, Mr. Wallace, and Karl climbed into the cabin, the scientists gave them a royal send-off, wishing them a safe journey.
And safe it proved to be. Karl’s ability as a pilot was greatly appreciated as they flew toward the United States, which they reached without incident.